Ford F-Series trucks have always been a top choice for buyers looking for a reliable pickup. However, their popularity has also made them a prime target for thieves. Over the years, the Ford F-150 and Super Duty models have frequently appeared on lists of the most stolen vehicles in the U.S. Recently, a new trend has emerged—thieves are not just stealing the trucks but also valuable parts like tailgates, headlights, and taillights. A major theft ring in Houston, Texas, recently highlighted this issue, with criminals focusing on expensive Ford truck taillights.
Houston Sees Rise in Ford Super Duty Taillight Thefts
According to Fox 26 Houston, the Webster Police Department has been investigating a theft ring responsible for stealing taillights from high-end Ford Super Duty trucks. Between September 2024 and January 2025, thieves targeted 34 different vehicles, causing an estimated $92,000 in damages. Fortunately, police were able to track down and arrest three individuals connected to these crimes.
Why Are Ford Super Duty Trucks Targeted?
Most of the trucks affected by this theft ring were Ford F-350 Super Duty models. These trucks were targeted along Interstate 45, from Galveston to Houston. The reason these vehicles are such easy targets is their design—criminals can simply lower the tailgate to access and remove the taillights quickly. Modern taillights contain advanced sensors and technology, making them valuable on the resale market.
How Companies and Ford Are Fighting Back
Due to the increasing rate of part theft, companies have started developing anti-theft solutions. One such company, Omaha Bravo Designs, has created a product called the AllGuard kit. This kit includes three components:
- HoodGuard – Protects the hood from theft
- TailGuard – Secures the taillights
- LightGuard – Prevents headlight theft
This kit is designed specifically for 2017-2022 Ford Super Duty trucks and helps prevent thieves from easily stealing these expensive parts.
Additionally, Ford itself is working on solutions. In September 2024, the company filed a patent for a parts theft detection system. If this technology goes into production, it could help truck owners protect their vehicles from becoming easy targets.
The rise in thefts of Ford Super Duty truck parts, particularly taillights, highlights the need for better security measures. Thieves are taking advantage of easy access and the high resale value of these parts. However, with law enforcement cracking down on theft rings, companies creating anti-theft solutions, and Ford developing new security technology, there is hope that this problem can be reduced. Owners of Ford trucks should also consider security measures like installing anti-theft devices, parking in well-lit areas, and using surveillance cameras to deter criminals.
