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From today, every new vehicle distributed by Subaru Australia will carry theft-deterring DataDots.
Launched on Model Year 2003 Imprezas in late November, the DataDot technology has been gradually introduced across the entire Subaru range including all Foresters, Libertys and Outbacks.
By the end of the year an estimated 24,000 Subarus will each carry up to 10,000 of the microscopic DataDots.
Combined with sophisticated immobilisers and, in the case of turbocharged Imprezas and Liberty versions, keypad alarm systems, this takes theft protection to an even higher level.
Each DataDot is laser-etched with the vehicle's unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
They can easily be identified by Police, insurers, registration authorities and authorised dealerships.
Nick Senior, General Manager, Subaru Australia said: "This puts Subaru at the forefront of automotive security and has been firmly supported by Police, the National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council, insurance companies and registration authorities."
Background
DataDots can be applied to virtually any car component. They make it extremely difficult for thieves to change the identity of stolen vehicles or use parts from another vehicle, or multiple vehicles, to "re-birth" a car.
Inspection before re-registration would clearly show if a car were carrying components from different vehicles.
If Police suspect any party of dealing in stolen panels or parts, inspection of the parts will reveal the identity of the "donor" vehicle. A simple check of Police records would determine if that vehicle were stolen.
The new system has been developed by Sydney company DataDot Technology.
The DataDot system attracts official recognition as it supports the existing State registration databases, through its use of VINS, and does not rely on secondary private databases.
The DataDots are sprayed onto car components in a random pattern, using ultra-strong adhesive that makes them virtually impossible to remove.
Even if some were removed, the sheer volume would make finding all of them impossible. Also, if Police were to locate parts that should have DataDots applied, it would be cause for further investigation.
Every Subaru already has an immobiliser security system, meaning the vehicle will not start if the Engine Control Unit (ECU) does not recognise a code embedded in the key.
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