The problem is that- as you may remember from previous reports- the Escalade is popular amongst thieves not only because stars of all sorts have immortalized it, but also because some security flaws made certain model year versions easy to steal.
Shortly after the release of the findings from HLI's study, GM issued a statement listing a series of changes made to the 2012MY Cadillac Escalade to address the high rate of theft.
“We are currently implementing four new pieces of ‘armor’ on Escalade intended to reduce vehicle thefts, particularly those called push away,” said Bill Biondo, GM’s global lead, vehicle theft prevention.
“We are committed to beating the thieves and expect these new theft deterrent systems to greatly reduce the Escalade’s rate of theft and lower its position on HLDI’s list,” Biondo added.
Along with the new steering column lock system that was re-introduced in 2010 after some cost cutting genius removed the feature in 2006 and improved for the 2012MY, GM offers additional optional theft protection systems such as the inclination sensor that sets off an alarm when the vehicle is lifted.
New for 2012, the Escalade includes:
- A new and more robust steering column lock system that makes it nearly impossible to maneuver the Escalade onto a flatbed tow vehicle
- An available inclination sensor that sets off an alarm when the system senses a change of the angle of the vehicle, such that would occur with towing, flatbedding or jacking up the vehicle.
- An available shock sensor intended to reduce content theft and push away theft by sounding the alarm when the vehicle is “shocked” such as breaking the glass.
- A new wheel lock system is available to help prevent the theft of Escalade’s wheels and tires.
