Have you ever approached your car and noticed a penny lodged in the door handle? At first glance, it may seem like a harmless prank or a random coincidence. However, this seemingly small and insignificant act can actually be a red flag, signaling a potential vehicle theft attempt. Let’s dive deeper into this puzzling phenomenon, uncover its purpose, and learn how to protect yourself from falling victim to car thieves.
What Does the Penny Trick Mean?
The "penny in the door handle " trick is a tactic used by car thieves to prevent vehicle doors from locking properly. It’s simple yet effective, taking advantage of the mechanical nature of car locks — particularly in older models. When a penny (or sometimes a small piece of plastic) is wedged into the handle or latch mechanism, it can interfere with the locking system, leaving the vehicle vulnerable to unauthorized access.
Once the car owner leaves, thinking the vehicle is securely locked, the thief can easily open the door without breaking in, avoiding alarms and drawing less attention.