If you own a Ram pickup between 2021 and 2025, you might want to invest in security cameras or an aftermarket theft prevention system, or keep it in a garage. Especially if you’re in Detroit, Michigan. Thieves there have learned they can easily break into a steal the screens from Ram trucks in about 30 seconds.

They rip out the screen and vanish into the night without leaving a trace. Depending on the size of the screen, the cost to replace a screen can vary. The 12-inch touch screen costs around $1,200 to $3,000 to replace.

Daryl, who’s lived in the same “nice” neighborhood for several years, came out to his truck to find the center screen missing. Thieves broke in through a window, stole the screen, and disappeared.

“I’m shocked it happened in this area, it’s a nice area,” he told FOX 2 reporters. “And unfortunately, mine gets parked outside all the time, so.”

His neighbor Dave said he parked the truck in his driveway. His security cameras caught a thief breaking and entering through the back window and stealing the center screen. It happened quickly, he said.

Police say thieves can quickly and easily steal Ram truck screens

Ben Leitch, a local detective assigned to investigate the increase in thefts, says he’s looked into 16 thefts in the past two months.

“I know it’s hitting all over the Tri-County area, so I would assume that it’s more than one person,” he said. “This is definitely a crime that probably could be stopped if the manufacturer changed some security features… You only need to remove a couple of screws to get the touchscreen out.”

As it turns out, the screens aren’t covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. So, Dave and Daryl have to go through their insurance companies. Dave’s insurance is replacing the screen—but he’s nervous about thieves striking again.

“It’s still not fixed, so we’re waiting for parts, I guess,” said Dave. “When I get it fixed, I have to worry about it getting swiped again. I’ve never stolen from anybody, and they do this. That’s what hurts.”

Truck owners felt torn about making repairs

Several commenters on the outlet’s YouTube page said they were looking to fix the screen on their trucks, and this theft ring is making them hesitant.

“I’ve been literally looking on eBay to install a bigger touchscreen on my 2012 Ram 1500,” they wrote. “And now I’m thinking that might not be such a good idea.”

Another wrote that many can’t park modern trucks in the older homes that are popular in Detroit.

“If builders would build a garage that a truck would fit in, that would help with this problem,” they wrote.

Someone else noted it felt like going back in time.

“It’s crazy that car radio theft is still a thing decades later,” their comment read.