If You See a Coin Stuck in Your Car Door Handle, You’d Better Call the…

At first glance, a coin stuck in your car door handle might seem like a harmless nuisance — maybe a kid’s prank or a random accident. But in reality, it could be a warning sign of something far more serious. Ignoring it could put your vehicle, and even your safety, at risk.

Here’s what you need to know.

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Why a Coin Could Be Stuck in Your Door Handle

While it might be tempting to assume this is just a random occurrence, there are a few possibilities that are worth taking seriously:

1. A Mechanic’s “Trap” Signal
   Some unscrupulous individuals may use a coin to discreetly mark a car as a target for theft or tampering. It’s rare, but worth considering if the coin appeared mysteriously.
2. Lock Tampering or Damage
   Coins can be inserted intentionally to jam the lock or handle, potentially as part of a theft attempt. Even a small coin can cause mechanical issues if unnoticed, leading to a broken handle or door lock.
3. Vandalism or Prank
   Most often, it’s a harmless prank. Kids, neighbors, or even passersby might stick a coin in your handle. But prank or not, it can still damage the mechanism over time.

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