While the Cadillac Escalade has racked up plenty of awards (and legions of fans) since launch, one that doesn’t sit in the front of the trophy case is “Top Ten Most Stolen Vehicle.” The Escalade is a target for car thieves, thanks to its export value, its parts value and the truck’s bling factor. Cost saving measures from GM, like an easily-defeated plastic steering wheel lock, didn’t help matters any, either.
For 2012, Cadillac wants you to know that they’ve significantly enhanced security on Escalade models. First up is the PASS Key 3+, which uses electronic encryption between the key, the lock cylinder and the ignition system. When the key is inserted into the ignition cylinder, the system looks for an electronic handshake; if none is given, the car won’t start, even if the key used unlocks the cylinder.
Steering column locks are strengthened for 2012, too, making roll-away thefts on a flatbed more difficult if the truck is parked with the front wheels turned. All GM vehicles also come with OnStar, which can help locate and even disable a vehicle after a theft occurs.
Cadillac is offering optional security enhancements, too, like a new style of wheel lock said to be more secure than previous versions. There’s an available shock sensor, which is aimed at reducing content theft, and Cadillac is also offering a tilt sensor that triggers the alarm when a change in inclination is detected.
A little common sense goes a long way, too. Don’t leave valuables in your car, period, even if you think they’re out of sight. Park in well-lit areas, preferable within sight of security cameras. Always lock your doors when you leave your vehicle, and lock them again as soon as you enter. Never leave you vehicle running, even if you’re only away for a few seconds.
No car will ever be theft-proof, but by making yours harder to steal, you can encourage car thieves to shop elsewhere.
Kurt Ernst has been passionate about automobiles and driving nearly his entire life. His early years were shaped working in the family service station, though his real passion was auto racing. After graduating from the University of Colorado, Kurt spent a year club racing with the Sports Car Club of America, before focusing on a business career in marketing and project management. Later, his passion for writing and the automotive hobby found him freelancing for a variety of automotive news sites, including Automotive Addicts and Motor Authority, where his work was syndicated and appeared in several national publications. Recognized as an expert in the automotive field, Kurt joined Hemmings Motor News as an Associate Editor in 2013, and in the years since has progressed to Editor, Hemmings Daily; Managing Editor for Hemmings Motor News, Hemmings Classic Car, Hemmings Muscle Machines, and the Hemmings Daily; and now, Managing Editor, Hemmings Auctions. Kurt was instrumental in organizing the Hemmings Motor News Concours d’Elegance from 2013-2019, and has served as a judge at this event and The Vintage Racing Stable Concours d’Elegance. A Skip Barber Racing School graduate and prolific writer, Ernst is also skilled in copyediting, project management, brand development, and public relations.
