Understanding Keyless Vehicle Theft and Its Prevention

Keyless vehicles promise the convenience of unlocking and locking, with keyless ignitions starting as early as . Now that keyless car features have become a standard, so has the growing concern for car owners in recent years. As modern vehicles increasingly rely on keyless entry and push-to-start systems, they are also becoming more vulnerable to sophisticated methods of theft.

While criminals have found ways to exploit these advanced technologies, there are ways you can outmanoeuvre them from gaining access to your vehicle. In this guide, we’ll dive into how keyless car theft works, what theft activity to stay aware of, and most importantly, how you can prevent it from happening to you.

What is Keyless Car Technology?

Keyless car technology refers to using a keyless entry or keyless ignition, or both. Originally, the handheld fob was called a PLIP system, as it was named after its creator Paul Lipschutz. His 1981 patented infrared invention became a standard feature in many modern vehicles, starting with the French-manufactured and then in American vehicles in 1983.

However, this technology was soon upgraded in 1995 when the European frequency took over. The modern system replaced traditional car keys with a proximity-based system that allows the driver to unlock, start, and operate the vehicle without physically inserting a key into the ignition or using a key fob to unlock the doors.

Keyless Entry Systems Explained

This system typically works through a key fob or smart key that communicates wirelessly with the car’s onboard computer. When the key fob is within a certain range of the car, it sends a unique signal to the vehicle, typically radio frequency identification (RFID) technology or Near Field Communication (NFC). These allow the car to recognise the presence of the key fob or smart key to perform a specialised function.

Here are some of the common key fob functions:

• Unlocking the Car: When the driver approaches the vehicle with the fob in their pocket or bag, the car detects the key fob’s low-frequency radio signal – this is picked up by sensors in the car and automatically unlocks the doors without the driver pressing any fob buttons.
• Starting the Engine: Once inside the car, the key fob needs to be within a certain range to activate the car’s push-button start system. As long as the fob is inside the vehicle and within range, the driver can press the “Start” button, and the car will start without the need for inserting a traditional key into the ignition.
• Keyless Go: Some vehicles have a system that doesn’t require the driver to touch the door handles or press buttons on the fob. Instead, the car detects the fob as the driver approaches and allows them to unlock or start the car with minimal effort.

While these systems make daily car use more convenient and streamline the process of accessing and starting the vehicle, they also introduce vulnerabilities. Unfortunately, thieves can exploit the wireless signals sent by the key fob. The following sections will explore these risks and how to protect your vehicle.

What is Keyless Vehicle Theft?

Keyless vehicle theft is a crime that targets the wireless signals used in keyless entry and ignition systems. Instead of physically breaking into a car or hot-wiring it, thieves exploit the technology behind keyless entry systems to gain unauthorised vehicle access. The most common method of keyless vehicle theft is “relay theft” or “signal amplification,” which involves using specialised equipment to intercept and amplify the signals from the key fob.

What Vehicles Are at Risk?

Keyless entry car theft primarily targets cars designed with keyless entry and push-to-start systems. However, certain factors make some vehicles more vulnerable than others. Being aware of which cars are at risk can help you to take action to prepare yourself and protect your assets.

Here are some vehicles that are most at risk for car keyless entry theft:

1. Vehicles with Keyless Entry and Ignition: Any car that uses a keyless entry system is at risk of relay theft, as thieves can intercept and amplify the signal to unlock and start the vehicle without physical access to the key fob.
2. High-End and Luxury Cars: Luxury brands and high-performance vehicles are prime targets because they often have keyless technology and are highly valuable on the resale or black market, often being stripped for parts or exported abroad.
3. Popular Models in the Stolen Car Market: Certain makes and models are more commonly stolen due to their popularity and demand. Criminal networks target these vehicles because they are easier to sell or dismantle for parts, with the most stolen vehicles tending to include popular family cars, SUVs, and sedans.
4. Older Keyless Vehicles with Outdated Security: Some older keyless vehicles lack the advanced security updates in newer models, making them easier targets.
5. Vehicles Without Additional Security Measures: Cars that do not have extra security measures are easier for criminals to steal, as they often look for vehicles with minimal resistance to make the theft as quick and discreet as possible.

How Keyless Car Theft Works

Have you wondered “Are keyless cars easier to steal?”. To some degree, yes, as keyless vehicle theft has become increasingly common due to the convenience of modern keyless systems and poses a significant security risk. However, car owners need to understand how this type of theft works and take preventive measures to protect their vehicles from being stolen.

Here’s how keyless vehicle theft typically occurs:

• Step 1 – Signal Interception: The thieves use a device to detect, intercept and capture the signal emitted by the key fob when it’s within range of the car.
• Step 2 – Signal Amplification: Once the signal is intercepted, thieves amplify it using a relay device to extend its range. This allows them to trick the vehicle into thinking the key fob is much closer than it is, effectively unlocking the car.
• Step 3 – Starting the Engine: After the vehicle is unlocked, the thieves can then start the engine and drive away. This method is often fast and discreet, making it difficult for car owners to detect that their vehicle has been compromised.

How to Protect Your Vehicle

As the theft of keyless entry cars becomes more sophisticated, taking proactive steps helps to work towards securing your vehicle. With each added action, they will contribute to more deterrents that will dissuade opportunistic thieves. On average, if it takes a thief more than 2-5 minutes to break in, chances are, they will move on – so, keep potential intruders challenged.

Here are some effective ways to protect your vehicle from keyless car theft:

1. Use a Faraday Pouch/Box: Store your key fob in a to block invasive electromagnetic signals to prevent relay theft.
2. Turn Off the Key Fob Signal: Check your manual for a signal-disable option.
3. Keep Keys Away from Doors/Windows: Reduces risk of signal interception.
4. Use a Steering Wheel Lock: Choose from a variety of steering wheel locks to add a visible deterrent to theft.
5. Install a Car Alarm & Tracker: A car alarm will alert you to theft, while a tracker will help locate your car in the case of theft.
6. Enable Extra Security Features: Activate motion sensors or PIN entry if available.
7. Park in a Secure Area: Choose well-lit spots near security cameras or a locked garage and avoid isolated areas.
8. Stay Updated on Threats: Keep up with new theft methods and security updates.

Pro Tip: Consider installing a Ghost Immobiliser, a next-generation car immobiliser that prevents key-cloning, hacking, and unauthorised access.

Recognising Signs of Keyless Theft Attempts

While taking preventative measures to secure your vehicle is a step in the right direction, observing and acting on strange activity will also put you in good stead. You will be better able to anticipate and react to situations you can change to deflect actions on your vehicle. Vigilance goes a long way in staying proactive against keyless car thefts.

Here are some common warning signs to watch for:

1. Unusual Activity Near Your Car: If you notice strangers lingering near your vehicle, especially with electronic devices in hand, they may be attempting to intercept your key fob signal.
2. Car Unlocking or Alarm Triggering Unexpectedly: If your car unlocks on its own or the alarm sounds for no apparent reason, someone may be trying to hack the keyless system.
3. Unresponsive or Weak Key Fob Signal: If your key fob suddenly has difficulty locking or unlocking your car from a usual distance, it could indicate interference from a signal amplifier used by thieves.
4. Suspicious Vehicles Near Your Home: Thieves often use relay devices from parked cars outside homes – if you notice unfamiliar vehicles loitering near your property, especially late at night, be cautious.
5. Signs of Tampering: Check for any unusual damage to your doors, keyless entry sensors, or dashboard, which may indicate a failed theft attempt.
6. Car Moved Slightly from Its Original Position: If your vehicle seems slightly out of place or angled differently, someone may have attempted to access or move it.
7. Security Camera Alerts or Motion Sensor Triggers: If you have security cameras or motion lights around your parking area, review any alerts for unusual activity near your car.

If any of the above scenarios occur, do not ignore them – but think of how to be proactive. Check the vehicle for further signs of tampering, relocate it if possible and then report the suspicious behaviour to security and relevant authorities. This will reinforce your safety and assist those in the immediate area to be safer.

Safety Features to Consider

Aside from being cautious and proactive, there are further features you can utilise to ensure your vehicle’s safety. When choosing a car or upgrading its security, consider models with advanced anti-theft features like motion sensors, PIN-protected keyless entry, and automatic locking. Installing a GPS vehicle tracking system can help locate your car quickly if stolen, while a steering wheel lock adds a strong visual deterrent.

FAQs

Are keyless cars safe from theft?

If you need to press a button on your key fob to unlock your car, you don’t have to worry about relay theft. Keyless car theft only happens with keyless entry cars, which unlock and start when the key fob is nearby. Thieves use special devices to extend the key fob’s signal, but this only works on keyless cars.

How do I stop my keyless car from being stolen?

You can take actions to prevent your keyless car from being stolen, such as keeping your key fob in a Faraday pouch or metal container to block its signal. Turn off the key fob’s wireless signal if your car has that option. Use a steering wheel lock, car alarm, or GPS tracker for extra security and always park in a well-lit, secure area, and be aware of any suspicious activity near your car.

Which keyless cars are most stolen?

Keyless cars that are most stolen tend to be popular models with high resale value or demand for parts – luxury brands like BMW, Mercedes, and Land Rover are often targeted, along with widely used models from Ford, Toyota, and Volkswagen. Older keyless vehicles with fewer security updates are also at higher risk. Check theft reports and security ratings to determine if your car is a common target.

Does car insurance cover keyless theft?

Most comprehensive car insurance policies cover keyless theft, but your coverage depends on your provider and policy details. Some insurers may require proof of forced entry or security measures in place. It’s best to check with your insurer to confirm coverage and ask about any extra security requirements or discounts for anti-theft devices.