Preventing Theft During Roadside Assistance in Malaysia | MyMechanic

Secure first, then speak

• Stay inside with doors locked; speak through a slightly lowered safe‑side window.
• Keep hazards on and traffic‑side doors closed; no one stands behind the vehicle in live lanes.
• If anyone approaches uninvited, acknowledge politely and state that help is en route.

Identity and authorisation in writing

• Request the operator’s name, company, truck plate, and destination in a message before any equipment touches the car.
• Photograph the truck plate and the job card showing destination, inclusions, and contact details.
• Decline service if identity or destination cannot be confirmed in writing—no exceptions.

Valuables and cabin discipline

• Move bags, laptops, and passports to the boot before assistance arrives; keep essentials (phone, IDs) on person.
• Disable proximity unlock if a second key is inside; keep one key shielded or away from doors.
• Close all windows before stepping out; lock the passenger side if work is on the driver’s side.

Loading methods that reduce risk

• Ask for wheel straps and long ramps; avoid suspension hooks.
• Keep bonnet and boot closed unless a specific check is underway.
• One adult oversees loading from the safe side while recording short clips of ramp setup and strap placement.

Crowd and bystander management

• Thank helpers but decline tool use from strangers.
• Avoid displaying cash; pay digitally or away from the roadside with doors closed.
• If a crowd forms, pause work and re‑establish a clear perimeter on the safe side.

Drive vs tow decisions with security in mind

• If safe to drive, relocate to a brighter, busier bay first.
• Choose towing for narrow shoulders, low‑light nights, or if valuables cannot be secured quickly.
• Confirm the destination’s name in writing; avoid vague “nearby workshop” directions.

Paper trail that protects owners

• Photos: four corners, existing damage, operator plate, job card, loading.
• Notes: time, location landmark, and agreed destination; send a copy to a trusted contact.
• On delivery: photograph the car, note arrival time, and confirm receipt or gate entry.

How MyMechanic reduces theft risk

• Identity‑verified dispatch before arrival.
• Safety‑first choreography: quick positioning, minimal doors‑open time, non‑intrusive loading.
• Clean handover: documented job card, photo trail, clear communication scene‑to‑destination.

Frequently Asked Questions