The "Panel Theft" Panic

[Driven5]

Am I the only guy that believes stolen panels is a non issue? I'm under the impression that some of the fender fasteners are under the hood, lock your Slate so the hood can't be opened. Aren't some of the fasteners for the quarters only accessible from inside the vehicle? Lock your Slate. I'm fairly sure I heard this somewhere, but perhaps I only assume it to be true because it would be the logical thing to do.

Yes, this is what Slate has already publicly stated. It's a 100% non-issue that bears repeating anytime such concerns arise from people that haven't been following along.

 

[cadblu]

I doubt if there will be any truly uncomfortable questions... They were all pre-submitted, and presumably vetted, I'm sure she has the answers already drafted.

Excellent point. So the email request for questions came through with a comment (dare?) to “fire away.” She gets to cherry pick the questions and dismiss the hard ones. Executive privilege.

 

[JImmy]

Before we panic about panel theft, Slate needs to not go bankrupt and actually deliver trucks in 2026, which is 50-50 at best according to most industry analysts. So it's kind of the cart before the horse for the next calendar year. We can all panic is 2027, when disaffected American youth make stealing Slate body panels the new "6-7". Because they're unemployed. Because AI.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/6-7_meme

Totally Agree
If you fear that stolen body parts is a reason to not buy a vehicle please read all the threads.

 

[Luxrage]

Wheel theft is still really common--look at the Accord. It's all about what the resale market will bear. Look at the Prius cat theft problem. You can't resell a license plate, but you can pawn off wheels, light covers, or anything else there's a market for. I don't think it'll be a huge issue, but that's not up to me to decide.

2nd gen Honda Fit Sports are also one of the few OEM 16'' wheels with a 4x100 lug pattern and are a hot target for thieves. And I remember when first gen Porsche Cayenne headlights were being stolen as they were some of the first LED headlights and put out a lot of UV for growing plants. You never know what people will find a weird market for. I've been told Suburban third row seats are also a target because owner #1 will remove them, get rid of them, and now owners 2 and 3 want a set.

 

[RetiredOnPaper]

My V6 Pontiac Fiero rear spoiler...popped off and stolen, no tools required. If someone want's it bad enough, it's gone. Time was all you needed was a Phillips and flat head and most of your lights and trim could be gone...AKA Midnight auto supply. None of this is worth worrying about.