After a single attempted theft, one Ram TRX owner invested tens of thousands to make his Hellcat-powered truck virtually untouchable.
Ram TRX enthusiasts already know that the Hellcat engine makes the high-performance pickup a prime target for thieves. But Jay, a truck owner and co-host of the Truck Show Podcast, took extreme measures after a near-miss incident left him determined to protect his $90,000+ desert-running beast. The result? Over $30,000 in aftermarket security mods, transforming his TRX into one of the most fortified trucks on the market.
The Theft Attempt That Sparked a Security Overhaul
It all began shortly after Jay had an IGLA immobilizer installed on his TRX. This advanced anti-theft device disrupts the truck’s CAN bus signals, preventing engine start unless the correct PIN is entered via buttons on the steering wheel. The installation process itself is secretive—Jay was not permitted to see where the unit was placed.
Just days later, a Saturday morning alarm brought the threat into sharp focus. Jay’s wife noticed the truck’s custom car cover displaced and glass scattered across the tonneau cover. A quick inspection revealed that the TRX’s rear window had been effortlessly shattered—an all-too-common tactic among thieves targeting Dodge pickups. The IGLA immobilizer, however, prevented the would-be thieves from driving away.
According to Jay, “You can take a hammer or center punch to the back window, and the whole thing just shatters. If your truck has window tint, thieves can slither through in seconds. I’ve watched countless videos of this.” With replacement parts taking weeks to arrive and the TRX’s limited production—approximately 15,000 units per year between 2021 and 2024—he knew proactive measures were essential.
Investing in Layers of Protection
Jay’s first line of defense included a Compustar alarm system with GPS tracking, motion sensors, and a visible indicator light to deter intruders. To reinforce the glass, he added 3M shatterproof window film over his factory tint. But he didn’t stop there.
Recognizing vulnerabilities in the TRX’s factory alarm, Jay installed twin 100-watt Feniex police sirens, blasting the highway patrol “move over” tone until deactivated. The neutral override was also disabled to prevent thieves from flat-towing the truck without authorization.
“I watched too many videos of guys driving stolen trucks through gates or over walls,” Jay explained. “These bollards are 316 stainless steel, buried 54 inches deep, and stop a 5,000-pound vehicle at 25 mph. They were an absolute must.” Each bollard cost $850 initially, with installation adding $2,000—meaning a current full install would total nearly $14,000 for four units alone.
Why the TRX is a Hot Target
The Ram TRX isn’t just any truck—it’s a Hellcat-powered pickup with 702 horsepower and a supercharged V8, making it a high-demand target for theft rings and chop shops. Muscle car enthusiasts already know the Dodge Charger Hellcat frequently tops theft reports, with the Highway Loss Data Institute noting it’s over 60 times more likely to be stolen than the average vehicle. For the TRX, limited production amplifies the risk.
Jay explained it bluntly: “Thieves want the Hellcat engine. You never hear about Ford Raptors getting swiped as much, but if it has a Hellcat, you can bet it’s on the radar.”
Security Mods That Turn Heads
Jay’s comprehensive security setup includes:
- IGLA immobilizer with stealth installation
- Compustar aftermarket alarm with GPS tracking and motion sensors
- 3M shatterproof window film layered over factory tint
- Feniex dual siren setup to mimic police warnings
- Disabled neutral override to prevent flat-towing
- Infrared driveway sensor triggering audible alerts
- Stainless steel retractable bollards at entry points
In total, Jay estimates $30,000 invested in security upgrades, excluding the bollards. For context, his YouTube video detailing the installation went viral, amassing 69 million views, with follow-ups surpassing 8.5 million—highlighting the broader interest in anti-theft strategies for high-value trucks.
A Lesson for TRX Owners
Jay’s story isn’t just about one heavily fortified pickup; it’s a cautionary tale for all Ram TRX owners, or any vehicle equipped with a high-performance Hellcat engine. While standard theft deterrents may suffice for everyday trucks, rare and powerful pickups like the TRX demand layered security solutions. From immobilizers to reinforced glass and even physical barriers like bollards, the risk of theft in high-demand markets is real—and potentially costly.
As trucks like the Ram TRX gain popularity, aftermarket security modifications are becoming essential for owners who want to protect both their investment and peace of mind. For Jay, it was a one-time wake-up call that turned his prized Hellcat pickup into a fortress on wheels—proof that when it comes to anti-theft measures, you can never be too prepared.