3 ms·

I guess because the car would appear to be non-functional rather than deliberately disabled, i.e. the engine would choke and splutter but would not take you far

• dotancohen 6y ago
  Also, in some jurisdictions the car is not considered "stolen" until it has physically moved. If the engine can move the vehicle just a centimeter before stalling under the load, then the vehicle is stolen for legal purposes and that has effects on reporting to the police, insurance for broken windows or valuables missing, and even crime statistics if the OP is thinking long term. It also might enable the OP to file a complaint with his HOA, who may be responsible for ensuring that the parking lot is better protected.
  • JadeNB 6y ago
    > Also, in some jurisdictions the car is not considered "stolen" until it has physically moved. Leading to the hilarious situation that a thief who couldn't get my car moving was charged, not with theft, but criminal trespass.