How to Stop Keyless Car Theft

How to Stop Keyless Car Theft

Unfortunately, whether you have a keyless entry vehicle, or a regular keyed entry, your car is at risk of theft from deplorable criminals.

In this blog, we will provide solutions on how to stop keyless car theft.

The UK automotive aftermarket industry is thriving, ranking fourth in Europe and ninth in the world in terms of size, and turning over an annual £21.1 billion.

The sector supports 345,600 jobs and contributes £12.2 billion each year to the economy. And it is growing: the sector’s value is set to rise to £28 billion by 2022.

That’s why we at Car Specialist Customs are here to provide you with all the information you require to get the best car customisation possible, whilst being as informed as possible.

How are keyless cars stolen?

Keyless entry and start systems, while convenient, have introduced new vulnerabilities that can be exploited by thieves. Here are some common methods used to steal keyless cars in the UK:

Relay Attacks:

  • Signal amplification: Thieves use two devices to amplify the signal between your car key and the vehicle. One device intercepts the signal from your key, while the other relays it to the car, tricking it into unlocking and starting.
  • Signal interception: Thieves can also intercept the signal directly from your car key using a device that mimics the key’s frequency.

Code Grabbing:

  • Jamming: Thieves can jam the signal between your key and the vehicle, forcing the car to re-establish a connection. This process can sometimes capture the key’s code, which can then be used to unlock and start the car.
  • Code cloning: Some devices can capture and clone the code from your key, allowing thieves to create a duplicate that can be used to unlock and start the car.

Physical Access:

  • Windows and doors: Thieves can still gain access to a keyless car by breaking a window or using a lock-picking tool to open a door.
  • Steering wheel locks: While steering wheel locks can deter some thieves, they may not be effective against determined criminals.

How to stop keyless car theft

How to stop keyless car theft

Keyless car theft may seem like it can’t be prevented, if the technology can be intercepted by thieves. But there is a solution that has yet to be bypassed by any thief. The ghost immobiliser.

A ghost immobiliser is a hidden electronic device that can be installed in a vehicle to prevent theft. Unlike traditional alarms or immobilisers, ghost immobilisers are virtually undetectable to thieves and can be activated and deactivated using a secret code or remote control.

How Ghost Immobilisers Work

Ghost immobilisers operate by disrupting the communication between the car’s key fob and the vehicle’s electronic control unit (ECU). When activated, the immobiliser intercepts the signal from the key fob, preventing it from reaching the ECU. This effectively disables the vehicle’s starting system, making it impossible to drive away.

Key Features of Ghost Immobilisers:

  • Hidden Installation: Ghost immobilisers are typically installed in hidden locations within the vehicle, making them difficult for thieves to find or disable. This stealthy nature significantly increases their effectiveness.
  • Customisable Code: Each ghost immobiliser has a unique activation and deactivation code, known only to the vehicle owner. This code can be customised, making it even more challenging for thieves to bypass.
  • No Visible Signs: Unlike traditional alarms or immobilisers, there are no visible signs of a ghost immobiliser on the outside of the vehicle. This further reduces the risk of thieves being deterred or alerted to its presence.
  • Compatibility: Ghost immobilisers can be installed in a wide range of vehicles, making them a versatile theft prevention solution.

How Ghost Immobilisers Prevent Keyless Car Theft

Keyless car theft often involves the use of sophisticated techniques such as relay attacks or code grabbing. Ghost immobilisers effectively counter these methods by:

  • Blocking Signal Interception: By intercepting the signal between the key fob and the ECU, ghost immobilisers prevent thieves from using relay attacks or code grabbing techniques to gain unauthorised access to the vehicle.
  • Disabling Starting System: Even if a thief manages to unlock the vehicle, the ghost immobiliser will prevent the engine from starting, rendering the vehicle useless.
  • Deterring Thieves: The hidden nature of ghost immobilisers can deter thieves who are unaware of their presence. This can discourage potential criminals from targeting the vehicle.

Additional Benefits of Ghost Immobilisers

  • Insurance Discounts: Many insurance companies offer discounts to vehicle owners who have a ghost immobiliser installed.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing that your vehicle is protected by a ghost immobiliser can provide you with peace of mind and reduce stress.
  • Increased Resale Value: A vehicle equipped with a ghost immobiliser may have a higher resale value due to its enhanced security features.

Can I prevent theft without a ghost immobiliser?

In some cases, yes. But the ability to prevent the car from starting is one of the core features of the ghost immobiliser that ensures its effectiveness. Although other methods exist that can help to prevent vehicle theft, they aren’t guaranteed to work.

To reduce the risk of your keyless car being stolen, consider the following:

  • Keep your key fob secure: Store your key fob in a signal-blocking pouch or Faraday cage when not in use. This will prevent thieves from intercepting the signal.
  • Park in secure locations: Park your car in well-lit, secure areas to deter thieves.
  • Consider additional security measures: Install a steering wheel lock, an alarm system, or a tracking device to provide extra protection.
  • Update your software: Keep your car’s software up-to-date to ensure that it has the latest security patches.
  • Report any suspicious activity: If you notice anyone acting suspiciously around your car, report it to the police immediately.
  • Car parks: In most cases, paid car parks can be more secure than parking on a street. If you’re in an unfamiliar area, try to find secure car parks.

The best way to protect your vehicle from theft

The best way to protect your vehicle from theft

Our team members at Car Specialist Customs are extremely passionate and proud of the multiple services and products we provide for the people of Greater Manchester and beyond.

As a fully insured and approved installer, catering to the needs of vehicle owners of Greater Manchester and beyond, we are proud to let you know that we offer services for the following:

Tints:

Wrapping and PPF:

Interior customisation/ technology:

Wheel refurbishment:

Protection/Security:

Featuring the brands, Pandora, ScorpionTrak, Meta Trak & SmarTrack, we’ve included affordable, and premium products to suit the needs of our customers. With finance options available, and the option of installation, head to our website to get your quote!

We will always go above expectations to make your car feel special to you. With even more services and options becoming available in the future, Car Specialist Customs is the home of making any car unique, secure and special.

See what we can do for you today, we hope the details we shared have helped you decide to take a step forward in personalising your vehicle with our unique service.

In this blog, we aimed to have provided insight by showing you ways on how to stop keyless car theft’. Whilst also providing supplementary information that can help you make an informed choice when it comes to investing in customisation options for your vehicle.

Want to get in touch? You can find us right here:

WORKSHOP:

Unit 30

Caldershaw Centre

Ings Ln

Rochdale

OL12 7LQ

OPENING TIMES:

Monday to Wednesday – 10 AM—7 PM

Thursday – Closed

Friday to Sunday – 11 AM—7 PM

TELEPHONE:

07523 971347 (Mon – Fri: 8:30 am – 6:00 pm)

EMAIL:

info@carspecialistcustoms.co.uk

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