What you need to know about keyless cars
Did you know that thieves may be able to steal your vehicle without needing your keys if you have a keyless car? Car manufacturers have been improving car security, so car theft rates have fallen considerably. However, one area on the rise is keyless car theft.
Keyless cars have been popular in the market for some time now for their ease of entry for owners - they allow the driver to unlock and start the vehicle with the key fob still in their pocket. Some models use the key's proximity to open the doors and enable you to start the ignition.
The Rise of Keyless Car Theft
These cars are attractive to potential owners, but they're also attractive to potential thieves. While it's impossible to completely remove the risk of keyless vehicle theft with theft prevention strategies, we've compiled some tips for keeping your car safe.
If you're looking for competitive car insurance quotes, visit 123.ie and discover affordable options tailored to your needs, with our expert team ready to assist you at every step.
What is keyless car theft?
Keyless car theft (or relay theft) is where the signal from a key is captured by someone standing outside the victim's house using a small device. After absorbing the signal, the key's signal is transferred to someone standing by the car, and, in response, the vehicle is tricked into thinking the key is near it, which allows the doors to open and the ignition to be started.
The number of keyless car thefts has risen in recent years due to the number of car manufacturers using this technology. This process can be done in as little as 25 seconds and near silence.
How do I know if my car is keyless? Will it be targeted?
There are more than 200 models on the market offering keyless entry. If you have to insert the key into the door lock or push a button on your keys to enter your car - the car is not keyless.
Will my car be targeted?
According to the Irish Times, models affected include all of the top 10 cars in Ireland:
- Hyundai Tucson
- Nissan Qashqai
- Ford Focus and Fiesta
- Volkswagen Golf and Tiguan
- Skoda Octavia
- Kia Sportage
- Toyota Yaris and C-HR
5 steps to reduce the risk of a stolen vehicle
Implementing keyless entry car theft prevention measures can significantly reduce the risk of your vehicle being targeted by thieves. From understanding the basics to deterring thieves with keyless car theft prevention measures, let's explore these 5 steps in more detail below.
1.The Basics
First and perhaps most importantly - think carefully about the placement of your key whilst inside your home. Remember - this technology only works if the key is near the device.
Keep your car keys in a secure location within your home, as far away as possible from the outside of the building, windows and doors, and ideally shut inside a 'safe box' or drawer.
Carry your key in a signal-blocking pouch like a Faraday pouch to avoid being targeted in car parks and public areas. But be sure to check that your key is compatible with the pouch before purchasing.
2. Ensure your car is locked
This simple step is vital in keyless entry car theft prevention, ensuring your vehicle remains secure at all times. Every time you lock your car, you should ensure that it performs its typical locking processes, be it flashing the lights, folding the mirrors, chirping or simply audibly locking internally.
3. Switch off your key
Some keys can be switched off when not in use, which enhances keyless car protection against unauthorised access - though it's not apparent. This is usually done through a combination of button presses, but please ensure you know how to re-enable your key. Check your user manual or contact your car dealer to see if the system can be turned off on command.
4. Thief deterrents
There are lots of ways you can deter thieves from targeting your vehicle. CCTV is a popular choice for home and car safety. Though CCTV cameras aren't guaranteed to prevent your car from being stolen, they can be effective in deterring potential robbers from attempting to enter your home or car, and if they don't ward off the thieves, they're an aid for Gardaí to find your vehicle.
5. Tracking device
Another excellent way to find your car if it's ever stolen is using a tracking device. This gives you a much better chance of recovering your vehicle. You can also use physical barriers, such as a steering wheel lock, driveway parking post, or a wheel clamp. Even if the thieves can access and start your car, these should prevent them from driving away.
What should I do if my car has been stolen?
If you're unlucky enough to have been targeted by keyless car theft, you should follow these steps:
- Contact your local garda station with details of where the car was stolen, the registration, make, model, colour, etc. - they're the people best equipped to find your car or at least who did it.
- Call us at 123.ie on our 24/7 Claims Assist Team line on (01) 290 1999. Let us know if your car has been stolen, and we'll take care of things from there.
For complete peace of mind in the unfortunate event of car theft, you can rely on 123.ie for comprehensive support and assistance. Visit us for car insurance solutions that protect you. We offer a dedicated 24/7 Claims Assist Team to help you when needed.
