Posted on 05/26/2022 2:11:13 PM PDT by dynachrome
A rash of thefts of semiconductor-loaded powertrain control modules from parked Freightliner and Western Star trucks is turning the tractors into oversize paperweights. Daimler Truck North America is going after the bad guys but has few leads.
The rip-offs of common powertrain control module 4 units relate to the ongoing shortage of microchips. Harvesting and reprogramming the modules allow them to work in other trucks, Daimler said.
“The theft of CPC modules is a crime that threatens the livelihood of customers and disrupts our dealers’ operations,” Paul Romanaggi, DTNA chief customer experience officer, said in a press release Monday.
A shortage of semiconductors is one of the major shortfalls limiting new truck production. It is a big reason why low-mileage used trucks have practically doubled in price over the past year. Fleets are holding on to their trucks beyond the typical trade-in cycle, reducing the availability of desirable used equipment.
Other truck manufacturers did not immediately respond to a FreightWaves query about possible similar thefts.
(Excerpt) Read more at freightwaves.com ...
Like the catalytic converter thieves, need to shoot a few to increase the risk to thieves.
The solution is to do away with all this computerized crap and get back to easily operated and easily repaired trucks.
Yeah. My first thought was...latest BS from the current admin’s Deep State black ops arm.
The last thing that manufacturers want. Microchips have become the boon for creating products that users can’t maintain. Jut look at the scandal over John Deere’s maintenance scam.
Don’t worry - Basement Joe has got it covered, just as soon as he gets a diaper change and a fresh ice cream cone.
My buddy parked his freightliner next to the cafe.
When he came out a half hour later his computer was gone.
Houston we have a problem
That’s right. We need more geniuses building bigass machines that can’t run without little bitty camera parts. The guys who built the pyramids did the same thing-—put all their files someplace in the cloud and now it’s gone.
That’s right. We need more geniuses building bigass machines that can’t run without little bitty camera parts. The guys who built the pyramids did the same thing-—put all their files someplace in the cloud and now it’s gone.
Right to Repair...
Can’t afford to drive your truck with these diesel prices.
Can’t afford to park your truck with control module thieves afoot.
Damned if you do...
My son’s office is a Freightliner. The company he works for leases it. Every repair and even fuel is purchased from the leasing company. I’m not even sure he’s allowed under the hood.
I would think a lot of truckers are armed. It’s gonna happen sooner or later.
Because it’s a commercial vehicle, he has to do a pre-trip inspection, which requires checking several things under the hood, such as belts and fluids.
I know. I meant any minor repairs.
Most truck drivers don’t do minor repairs at all. They’re not mechanics.
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