UPDATE: Yesterday, the University City District released a crime alert warning residents about airbag thefts. The report states that airbag theft is on the rise in University City, with 45 break-ins in the last month alone.

Earlier report (Friday, Oct. 11): A reader who lives near Melville and Locust streets reports that his car was broken into at about 7:30 p.m. last night and his driver’s side airbag was stolen. A string of airbag thefts took place in that area over the summer, according to police.

Airbag thefts in the city continue to be a problem, police said, adding that there are more than a dozen open cases in the Spruce Hill area alone. Hondas seem to be a particular target, police said, a sentiment that is echoed in this ABC6 report on a rash of airbag thefts in Center City in March.

Sometimes a steering wheel locking device, like a Club, will make the airbag harder to get to and deter thieves. Some new, beefed-up steering wheel locks also include devices that protect the airbag. Airbags can cost as much as $1,000 to replace and some unscrupulous repair shops will use stolen bags and charge for new ones.