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Keyless car theft is on the rise, but what can you do to protect your car from modern car thieves?
- A Faraday pouch could help stop your car being stolen.
- Using a steering wheel lock will help keep car thieves away.
- Why you should double-lock your car doors.
Thieves are targeting cars equipped with keyless technology more and more, so it's important to take the right precautions
As our cars become more advanced, we'd expect better protection against theft. But, that's not always the case! The NPCC says devices like keyless repeaters and signal jammers are believed to be involved in the majority of car thefts in the UK.
Thieves are targeting cars with keyless technology and what's most worrying is how straightforward these methods are for tech-savvy criminals.
So, how does keyless car theft work?
Well, thieves use readily available signal relay devices to 'trick' your car into thinking the correct key is nearby. They amplify the key's signal, gain access, and with just a push of a button, they're off.
OBD theft is another method where criminals plug technology into your car's OBD port, disabling the alarm and immobiliser. They can then start the car using the keyless ignition.
While these easy- access methods might seem alarming, don't worry! There are several steps you can take to protect your car. Let's explore some top tips to keep your vehicle safe and sound.
Keep your car locked
Did you know there's more than one way to lock your car? Most of us don't give it a second thought, but knowing the difference between single and double locking could be the key to keeping your vehicle safe.
Single vs double locking - what's the difference? Back in 2001, single locking was the standard for cars, meaning thieves could break a window and open the door from the inside. Double locking is a clever feature that stops your car from being opened from both the outside and the inside when activated. It’s a simple yet effective way to boost your car's security!
How do I double-lock my car? Not everyone knows about the double-press secret! Most modern cars have a double locking feature, but they're often not activated by default. Why not? Well, rules about double locking can vary in different countries, so car manufacturers have standardised their tech to single lock on the first press of the key fob.
To make sure you know how to double lock your car, it’s best to check the user manual but here’s how most double-locking works:
1. Stand close to your car.
2. Press the "lock" button on your key fob twice.
3. Look for the lights and/or indicators to flash.
4. Your car is now deadlocked!
Now you've upped your security game!
What if I’ve got a keyless car?
Even if you have a modern keyless system, it's good to physically lock your car with the key fob each time to make sure it's deadlocked. By taking this simple extra step, you'll be giving your car an added layer of protection against theft.
Invest in a Faraday pouch
A Faraday pouch is a straightforward yet super effective way to stop thieves from amplifying your key’s signal. It’s lined with a special fabric that blocks your car key’s signals from escaping once it’s inside.
Keep your key fob stored away
It might seem obvious, but keeping your key fob away from doors and windows makes it harder for thieves to amplify the signal. Plus, it stops them from fishing your keys out through the letterbox. Find a safe spot, like a kitchen drawer, to store your keys and don’t forget about your spares.Use traditional car security methods
Don't dismiss old-fashioned car security just yet. A good steering wheel lock can be your last line of defence against thieves. Here's why they're worth considering:
- Bright colours are more visible and can put thieves off.
- High-quality locks make thieves think twice.
- A physical deterrent can stop your car looking like an easy target.
And don't forget, if you've got a gated driveway, always lock it up. These simple steps can make a big difference in keeping your car safe.
Fit a tracking device
Don’t panic, if thieves outsmart these methods, a tracking device can help you find your car fast. There are loads of options out there for all types of vehicles, making it easy to locate your car if it's stolen.
Get the right car insurance
Having the right car insurance is essential, especially with rising theft rates. At LV=, we always make sure our policies offer the best protection and value while keeping you in-the-know about the specific risks. It’s also wise to look into the other types of theft out there, such as catalytic converter theft and steering wheel theft!