Secure your Defender A simple but effective security device

Prevent your Defender being broken into or doors stolen. Dave Barker fits a simple but effective security device

DEFENDERS are one of the most stolen vehicles in the UK due to their popularity and a ready market for secondhand parts. They are also not the most secure vehicle, with even factory-fitted security equipment being defeated by crooks. Some older models didn’t even have an alarm or immobiliser fitted as standard. With owners rightfully concerned about Defender thefts, aftermarket anti-theft devices including alarms, immobilisers and tracking systems are popular. Steering wheel locks, pedal, gearstick and handbrake locks won’t always prevent theft of a vehicle but they will slow down the process.

However, on more modern Defenders the thieves don’t always want to steal the complete vehicle. The doors, bonnet and interior are likely to be taken. Fitting door hinge guards is one way to help prevent your doors from being removed. These plates are simply fitted inside to the existing door hinge bolts, so that if a thief unbolts the door hinges from outside, the door cannot be pulled away from the bulkhead sufficiently to unlock and remove it.

This kit is a simple, easy-to-fit, effective and low-cost security device. The only problems you might come across when fitting this Bombproof Hinge

Guard kit are seized door bolts, which are a common problem. You might have to cut the old door hinge bolts off and replace them with new ones, perhaps with a stainless steel set. You might also need to replace the door seals, since a damaged or split seal could interfere with the security plate and prevent the door closing correctly.