Are you concerned about keyless car theft and looking for a Car Key Fob Locksmith Near Me? Keyless car theft, also known as relay theft, is a growing concern for car owners. This article explains what keyless car theft is, how it works, and most importantly, how you can protect your vehicle. If you’re worried about your car’s security, understanding relay theft and knowing where to find a reliable car key fob locksmith near me is crucial.
Understanding Keyless Car Theft: Relay Theft Explained
Keyless car theft, or relay theft, is a method where thieves exploit the technology of keyless entry systems. Instead of hot-wiring or forcing entry, criminals use electronic devices to capture and amplify the signal from your car’s key fob.
How Relay Theft Works: Step-by-Step
The process of keyless car theft is surprisingly quick and efficient, often taking just seconds:
Step 1: Signal Interception: A thief uses a relay device to scan for and capture the radio signal emitted by your car’s key fob. This device can amplify the signal, even if your keys are inside your house.
Step 2: Signal Relay: The amplified signal is then relayed to a second device held by an accomplice near your car.
Step 3: Vehicle Access: Your car, tricked into thinking the legitimate key fob is nearby, unlocks its doors and allows the engine to start.
“Keyless car theft can take only 20-30 seconds”
This speed and ease of execution are what make relay theft so alarming.
Keyless car entry systems make vehicles vulnerable to relay theft.
Proximity is Key: How Close Do Thieves Need to Be?
Thieves only need to be within a few meters of your car keys to intercept the signal. This means if your keys are close to doors or windows, even inside your home, you could be at risk. Fortunately, there are preventative measures you can take to block thieves from capturing your car key signal, and finding a car key fob locksmith near me can also offer security solutions.
Is Your Car at Risk? Keyless Entry Systems Explained
Not all cars are vulnerable to relay theft. If you need to physically press a button on your key fob to unlock your car, your vehicle is not considered keyless entry and is not susceptible to this type of attack.
Keyless entry systems, the target of relay theft, allow you to unlock, enter, and start your car without ever physically taking your key fob out of your pocket or bag. These systems rely on radio signals transmitted between the fob and the car.
For a detailed explanation of keyless entry systems, you can refer to this guide.
Preventing Keyless Car Theft: Top Security Tips
Protecting your keyless entry car from relay theft is essential. Here are several effective methods you can implement:
1. Faraday Bag (Signal Blocking Pouch): Your First Line of Defense
Car key burglaries are increasingly common, emphasizing the need to secure your car keys. If you own a keyless entry car, storing your keys properly is paramount.
Keep your keys away from doors and windows and, most importantly, use a signal blocking pouch, also known as a Faraday bag. This pouch is lined with metallic material that blocks electromagnetic fields, preventing your key fob’s signal from being intercepted. Remember to use a Faraday bag for all sets of keys, including spares.
Fact: Faraday Bags = Signal Blocking Pouches
A signal blocking pouch (Faraday bag) effectively blocks key fob signals, preventing relay theft. Image courtesy of Solon Security.
Signal blocking pouches are an affordable and highly effective way to block your car key fob signal.
“The pouch which has a metallic lining Image, which prevents signals from the remote key fob being intercepted by unwanted individuals” – John Mutch Locksmith
These pouches are inexpensive, often costing as little as £5, and can also block Wi-Fi and Bluetooth signals for mobile phones.
Learn more about Faraday/Signal Blocking Pouches and explore the best signal blocking pouches on the market.
2. Disable Keyless Fob Wireless Signals
Some keyless fobs have a feature that allows you to manually turn off the wireless signal. Check your car’s manual to see if this function is available for your key fob. If you can’t find information in your manual, contact your car manufacturer for guidance.
This WikiHow guide provides instructions on disabling keyless car fobs.
3. Mechanical Security: Steering Wheel Locks and Car Alarms
Physical security measures like steering wheel locks and car alarms are still effective deterrents against car theft, including relay theft.
Steering wheel locks are a visible deterrent, and can physically prevent thieves from steering your car. Modern car thieves often rely on electronic methods, making mechanical devices surprisingly effective.
A steering wheel lock provides a strong visual and physical deterrent against car theft.
When choosing a security device, look for products with 3rd party approval, such as Sold Secure. Sold Secure tests products against tools commonly used by criminals.
Find Sold Secure approved steering wheel locks here.
Car Alarms and Insurance Benefits
Installing a car alarm, especially if your car doesn’t have a factory-fitted one, can potentially lower your car insurance premiums. Ensure the alarm is approved by your insurer, as quality varies. For even greater insurance benefits, consider a professionally installed immobilizer.
Learn more about how car alarms can impact your insurance.
4. Secure Parking: Garage or Driveway
Parking your car in a garage overnight is an excellent way to prevent keyless car theft. It increases the distance between your car and potential thieves attempting to intercept your key fob signal. If you don’t have a garage, park as close to your house as possible when parking on your driveway.
Enhanced Home Security
Consider improving your overall home security with outdoor motion detector lighting and CCTV cameras. If you regularly park on the street, choose well-lit areas. A local MLA master locksmith can conduct a home security check and recommend outdoor security upgrades.
Explore 18 Home Security Tips and Outdoor Security Advice from locksmith experts.
5. VIN Etching: Deterring Re-Identification
Etching your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) onto windows, headlights, and mirrors makes it significantly harder for thieves to resell your car after stealing it. VIN etching makes it difficult to alter the vehicle’s identity.
Is VIN etching worth the investment? Find out more.
6. Keep Your Car Tidy and Valuables Hidden
While not directly preventing relay theft, keeping your car tidy and free of visible valuables can deter thieves in general. Hide electronic devices like GPS units and mobile phones. Keep your glove box empty and open to show there’s nothing to steal. Also, remove suction cup marks from your windshield, as they indicate the presence of a GPS device.
7. Secure Lost or Stolen Car Keys
If you’ve lost your car keys or suspect they’ve been stolen, contact a local MLA auto locksmith immediately. A qualified car key fob locksmith near me can reprogram your car’s system to ensure only your current keys will work, preventing stolen keys from being used.
Learn about car key reprogramming services. and discover the best ways to replace lost car keys.
8. Reprogram Used Car Keys
If you purchase a used vehicle, there’s a risk that previous owners may still have keys that can access your car. To eliminate this risk, have your car keys reprogrammed by a car key fob locksmith near me. This ensures only your keys will operate the vehicle.
Reprogramming your car keys is a security measure, especially when buying a used vehicle.
Warning: Car key programming costs can vary, especially at dealerships. Hiring an auto locksmith is often a more affordable option. Find a local auto locksmith.
Car Models Vulnerable to Keyless Car Theft
Any vehicle with a keyless entry system is potentially vulnerable to relay theft. Popular models like the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Golf, Nissan Qashqai, and Ford Focus have been identified as at risk.
The BBC reported in their article “Hundreds of popular cars ‘at risk of keyless theft” on research analyzing keyless car attacks.
View the list of cars tested by ADAC.
A study by the General German Automobile Club (ADAC) tested 237 keyless cars and found that 230 could be unlocked and started using relay theft techniques.
Thatcham Security Ratings for Keyless Entry Cars
In 2019, Thatcham, a UK automotive research center, introduced security ratings specifically for keyless entry cars and their resistance to relay theft.
Keyless Car Models That Passed Relay Theft Tests (Superior Security)
The following models PASSED Thatcham’s relay attack test and received a “Superior” security rating:
| Keyless Entry Vehicle Model | Pass Or Fail | Security Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Audi e-tron | Pass | Superior |
| BMW 1 Series / 7 Series / 8 Series | Pass | Superior |
| BMW X6 / X7 | Pass | Superior |
| Ford Puma | Pass | Superior |
| Jaguar XE | Pass | Superior |
| Land Rover Evoque | Pass | Superior |
| Mercedes B-Class | Pass | Superior |
| Porsche 911 | Pass | Superior |
| Porsche Macan | Pass | Superior |
| Volkswagen Passat | Pass | Superior |
Keyless Car Models That Failed Relay Theft Tests (Poor Security)
The following models FAILED Thatcham’s relay attack test and received a “Poor” security rating:
| Keyless Entry Vehicle Model | Pass Or Fail | Security Rating |
|---|---|---|
| DS3 Crossback | Fail | Poor |
| Ford Mondeo | Fail | Poor |
| Kia ProCeed | Fail | Poor |
| Lexus UX | Fail | Poor |
| Hyundai Nexo | Fail | Poor |
| Mazda 3 | Fail | Poor |
| Toyota Corolla | Fail | Poor |
| Toyota RAV-4 | Fail | Poor |
| Volvo V60 | Fail | Poor |
Keyless Car Theft FAQs
Does putting car keys in a tin block the signal?
Storing your key fob in a metallic tin MAY block the signal and prevent relay theft. However, effectiveness can vary. Test the tin’s signal blocking capability to be sure. For reliable signal blocking, a Faraday pouch is recommended.
Where should I keep my car keys at night?
Store your key fob in a Faraday pouch at night, and keep it far away from doors and windows to minimize the risk of signal interception.
Will My Car Insurance Cover Keyless Car Theft?
Most car insurance policies cover theft, including keyless car theft. However, insurers may require proof that you still have all sets of keys. Check with your insurer to confirm your policy’s specifics.
Are Car Manufacturers Addressing Keyless Car Theft?
Yes, car manufacturers are implementing preventative measures. Kia provides Faraday bags to customers. Ford, BMW, Audi, and Mercedes have introduced motion sensor key fobs that go into sleep mode after inactivity, blocking signal relay. Learn more about motion sensor key fobs.
Are Vans Vulnerable to Keyless Theft?
Yes, vans are also at risk. Keyless van thefts increased in 2018, with Ford Transits being a popular target. Read about the rise in keyless van thefts.
What is the Future of Relay Theft Prevention?
Efforts are underway to combat vehicle theft. Industry experts and law enforcement are collaborating to push for stronger preventative measures from car manufacturers. Using a Faraday pouch remains a crucial step for car owners to protect their vehicles. Learn about calls for action against vehicle theft.
Need Help with Car Key Fob Security?
If you have concerns about keyless car theft and want to enhance your vehicle’s security, contact us or reach out to a licensed MLA car key fob locksmith near me for expert advice and solutions.
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