How to avoid keyless car theft

Having a car with keyless entry is a modern convenience, saving you the hassle of searching around for your keys. This technology uses a short-range signal to unlock your car automatically when the key gets close to it.

However, it does mean your car is at risk of theft by criminals who use technology to their advantage and trick keyless entry systems into thinking that the key is nearby.

The good news is that there is plenty you can do to keep thieves at bay. Here are some steps you can take to keep your keyless car safe:

1. As a first step, always make your car has locked properly before walking away. This one applies to all cars, of course.
2. Switch off your key fob overnight, if you can. Not all keyless fobs come with this technology, but make sure to use it if you have it.
3. Speak to your dealer or your car’s manufacturer about software updates and see if new key fobs with added security are available. Some manufacturers have started using motion sensors, which deactivate the signal if the key isn’t in use for a while.
4. Consider low-tech security measures, such as a steering wheel lock. These can deter criminals[1].
5. Keep your keyless fob as far away as possible from doors and windows and stored as far into your home as possible. This will limit criminals’ ability to detect and relay its signal[2].
6. Buy a signal-blocking Faraday pouch to keep your keys in, ensuring you choose one that has Secured by Design accreditation[2]. Don’t forget to put your spare key inside, too.
7. If you have more than one vehicle parked at home in your driveway, then use the less valuable one to block in the more desirable one[3].
8. Some keys come with the option of disabling the wireless signal, so check your manual or speak to the manufacturer to find out if this is possible.
9. Some thefts involve breaking into vehicles and using the onboard diagnostic port in the vehicle cabin to start the car[4]. So, consider fitting an ‘OBD safe’ device that fits over this port.
10. If your vehicle has on board wi-fi, then consider switching it off to reduce the chance of someone hacking into your car[4].
11. Have a GPS tracking device fitted to your car, so it can be found, if it’s stolen.
12. If you’re considering a new car but have concerns about keyless entry security, use Thatcham Research’s security ratings to find out which carmakers have introduced extra security steps.

Modern cars require a modern approach to security. Knowing your options and taking a bit of extra care can help you keep your car safe and your mind at ease.

[1] https://www.abi.org.uk/news/news-articles/2019/02/how-do-i-avoid-keyless-car-theft/
[2] https://www.nottinghamshire.police.uk/advice/prevention/vehicle
[3] https://www.westyorkshire.police.uk/sites/default/files/keyless_theft.pdf
[4] https://www.cambs.police.uk/news-and-appeals/Advice-issued-prevent-keyless-vehicle-thefts