All Subaru Impreza vehicles sold in Australia will be coded with up to 10,000 microscopic DataDots, taking theft protection to an even higher level.
This forms part of a staged introduction of DataDots across the entire Subaru range during 2003.
Every Subaru Forester, Impreza, Liberty and Outback will carry DataDots laser-etched with the vehicle’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
The DataDots can easily be identified by Police, insurers, registration authorities and authorised dealerships.
Nick Senior, General Manager, Subaru Australia, said: “Subaru is offering DataDot protection across its entire range in Australia.
“It represents a significant commitment to the very latest in anti-theft technology and demonstrates our intention to adopt the best ways of deterring thieves.”
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 and has drawn strong support from Police, insurers and state and territory vehicle registration authorities.
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.
Subaru’s latest security initiative follows its move earlier this year to offer keypad immobilisers free-of-charge on some earlier model Impreza WRXs.
Keypad alarm immobilisers were also introduced as standard equipment on turbocharged Impreza WRXs, STis and Liberty B4s for the 2002 model year.