If you have seen posts on social media warning about a plastic bottle wedged between a car tire and the wheel well, you are looking at a widely circulated internet warning regarding a specific carjacking and theft tactic.
While some law enforcement agencies view this primarily as a viral urban legend, the mechanics behind the trick are real enough that drivers should be aware of how it works and what precautions to take.
How the “Plastic Bottle Trick” Works
The premise behind this viral warning relies on distracting a solo driver when they enter their vehicle:
- The Setup: A perpetrator places an empty plastic water bottle tightly into the gap between the tire and the wheel well (usually on the passenger side, where the driver is less likely to notice it when getting into the car).
- The Distraction: When the driver gets in, starts the engine, and begins to reverse or drive forward, the tire crushes the bottle. This produces a loud, jarring, grinding or snapping noise.
- The Trap: Thinking something is mechanically wrong with their vehicle or that they ran over something sharp, the driver typically puts the car in park, steps out to investigate—and often leaves the key in the ignition, the engine running, and the driver’s side door open.
- The Theft: While the driver is distracted inspecting the tire on the passenger side, a thief can quickly jump into the running vehicle and drive off, or grab personal belongings (like a purse, wallet, or phone) left on the front seat.
Is This Common, or an Urban Legend?
- Viral Origin: The trend originally went viral via videos on YouTube and social media platforms warning drivers—particularly solo or female drivers—about carjacking methods.
- Police Assessments: Many law enforcement departments note that while it is an easy method for criminals to execute in theory, actual documented police reports of the bottle trick leading to carjackings remain relatively rare.
- Other Similar Distraction Tactics: Similar distraction techniques involve placing a piece of paper or a flyer under the rear windshield wiper or bending a license plate.
What to Do If You Find or Suspect a Bottle on Your Tire
If you ever suspect your car has been targeted or hear an unusual crushing sound upon starting your vehicle:
- Do Not Get Out Immediately: Stay inside the vehicle with the doors locked.
- Turn Off the Engine: If you must exit the vehicle to check, turn off the ignition, take your keys/key fob with you, lock the doors, and keep your phone in your hand.
- Scan Your Surroundings: Look around before getting out. If anyone is loitering nearby or acting suspiciously, drive away to a well-lit, populated area (such as a gas station or police station) before inspecting your car.
- Do a Walk-Around First: Get into the habit of doing a quick 360-degree visual check around your car before unlocking and getting inside, especially in dark or empty parking lots.