Keyless Car Theft: How It Works and How to Protect Your Car

Summary

• Relay theft: Thieves amplify your key fob's signal to unlock and start your car without the actual key.
• Takes seconds: A well-organised theft can happen in under 60 seconds.
• Faraday pouches: Block your key's signal when not in use. Cheap and effective.
• Layered security: Combine electronic and physical deterrents for best protection.

Keyless entry is convenient. You don't need to fumble for keys - just walk up and your car unlocks. But that convenience comes with a security risk.

This guide explains how keyless theft works and what you can do to protect your car.

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How Keyless Theft Works

Keyless entry systems use radio signals between your key fob and your car. The car unlocks and starts when it detects the key nearby.

Thieves exploit this with a "relay attack":

1. One thief stands near your front door (where keys are often kept)
2. They use a device to pick up the key fob's signal
3. The signal is amplified and relayed to a second device near your car
4. Your car thinks the key is nearby and unlocks
5. The thief gets in, presses the start button, and drives away

The whole process takes less than a minute. CCTV regularly captures these thefts, and they're alarmingly quick and quiet.

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Which Cars Are Targeted?

Any car with keyless entry is potentially vulnerable. However, thieves tend to target:

• Popular models: Range Rovers, BMWs, Mercedes, and Audis are frequently stolen
• New, expensive cars: Higher resale value or parts demand
• Cars parked on driveways: Easier access and near the house (where keys are)

Some manufacturers have improved their systems with motion-sensor fobs that go to sleep after inactivity. Check if your car has this feature.

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How to Protect Your Car

1. Use a Faraday Pouch or Box

A Faraday pouch (or signal-blocking pouch) blocks the radio signal from your key fob.

• Place your keys inside when at home
• Costs as little as £5-15
• Test it works by trying to unlock your car with the key inside the pouch
• A Faraday box by the door is convenient for storing keys

Tip: Don't put keys by the front door - thieves know to look there. Keep them in a Faraday pouch in another room.

2. Turn Off Keyless Entry at Night

Some key fobs can be set to "sleep mode" or have keyless entry disabled in the car's settings. Check your owner's manual.

3. Use a Steering Lock

A visible steering lock is a strong deterrent. Even if thieves can get in, they can't easily drive away. Look for:

• Solid metal construction
• Thatcham-approved models
• Quick to fit and remove

4. Fit a Tracking Device

A GPS tracker won't prevent theft, but it dramatically increases the chances of recovery.

• Covert trackers are hidden in the vehicle
• Many include subscription services that alert you to movement
• Some insurers offer discounts if a Thatcham-approved tracker is fitted

5. Use a Wheel Lock or Pedal Lock

Additional physical barriers like wheel clamps or pedal locks add another layer thieves must defeat.

6. Park Strategically

• In a garage if possible (locked, of course)
• In well-lit, busy areas
• With wheels turned towards the kerb (makes towing harder)
• Near CCTV cameras

7. Consider an OBD Port Lock

The OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) port can be used to program new keys. An OBD port lock prevents access to this port.

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Signs of Attempted Theft

Look out for:

• Door handles that have been tampered with
• Scratches around locks
• Unfamiliar devices attached to your car
• Your car unlocking or starting unexpectedly
• Suspicious people near your car at night

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What to Do If Your Car Is Stolen

1. Report to police immediately: Call 101 (or 999 if you witness the theft)
2. Get a crime reference number: You'll need this for insurance
3. Contact your insurer: Report the theft as soon as possible
4. Alert your tracker company: If you have a tracker, they can help locate the vehicle
5. Inform the DVLA: Especially if the car isn't recovered

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Insurance Implications

Keyless theft doesn't affect your ability to claim, but be aware:

• Some insurers offer discounts for security devices (trackers, steering locks)
• Premiums for high-theft-risk vehicles may be higher
• After a theft, your premiums will likely increase
• Taking preventive steps shows insurers you're a responsible owner

For more on security devices, see our guide to anti-theft devices.

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Are Manufacturers Fixing This?

Yes. Many newer cars now include:

• Motion-sensing fobs: Go to sleep after being still for a few minutes
• UWB (Ultra-Wideband) technology: Much harder to relay
• PIN-to-drive: Requires a code even with the key present

If buying a new car, ask about these security features.

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Common Questions

Does wrapping my keys in foil work?

It can work as a temporary measure, but it's not reliable. Proper Faraday pouches are tested to block signals effectively.

Can I disable keyless entry on my car?

Some cars allow you to disable keyless entry in the settings. Check your owner's manual or contact your dealer.

Will my insurance cover keyless theft?

Yes, as long as your policy covers theft. But you still need to report it properly and cooperate with the investigation.

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Final Thoughts

Keyless theft is a real and growing threat. But with relatively simple precautions - a Faraday pouch, a steering lock, and smart key storage - you can dramatically reduce your risk.

Don't make it easy for thieves. Layer your security and stay vigilant.

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