How to Prevent Relay Theft: Protecting Your Keyless Car from Thieves
Car theft has evolved, and criminals are using increasingly sophisticated methods to steal vehicles without even needing the keys. One of the biggest threats to keyless cars today is relay theft, also known as keyless car theft. With reports from national police forces showing an increase in this type of crime, it’s important to understand how it works, which cars are most at risk, and how you can protect yourself.
What is Relay Theft?
Relay theft is a method used by thieves to steal cars that have keyless entry and push-start ignition systems. Criminals use special electronic devices to amplify and transmit the signal from your key fob, tricking your car into thinking the key is nearby. This allows them to unlock and start the vehicle without ever physically touching the key.
How Does Keyless Car Theft Work?
Keyless car theft works in pairs. One thief stands near your home or wherever your keys are stored, using a device to capture the key’s signal. The second thief stands near the car with another device that receives the transmitted signal. This extends the range of the key fob, making the car think the key is present, allowing the thieves to unlock and drive away in seconds.
What Distance Can a Thief Be to Steal My Car?
The range varies depending on the technology used by both the key fob and the thieves’ relay equipment. In many cases, criminals can steal a car from up to 30 metres away, meaning your car could be at risk even if it’s parked outside your house while your keys are inside.
How Long Does Keyless Car Theft Take?
Shockingly, relay theft can take as little as 10 to 60 seconds. The speed and ease of this method make it one of the most effective ways for thieves to steal modern vehicles without drawing attention.
How Do I Know if My Car Has Keyless Entry?
Not all cars with remote locking have keyless entry. A simple way to check is:
Try opening the car without pressing any buttons. If the door unlocks as you pull the handle while the key is in your pocket or bag, your car has keyless entry.
Check your car’s manual for details about its key system.
Look at your key fob. If there’s no physical key blade inside, it’s likely a keyless system.
Can Vans Be Affected by Relay Theft?
Yes, vans with keyless entry are just as vulnerable to relay theft as cars. This can be particularly concerning for businesses or tradespeople who rely on vans to store valuable tools and equipment. If your van has keyless entry, taking extra security measures is essential.
Does My Insurance Cover a Lease Car for Relay Theft?
Most comprehensive car insurance policies cover theft, including relay theft, as long as there are no signs of negligence (such as leaving the key fob inside the car). However, it’s always best to check your specific policy details. If your car is stolen, GAP insurance can be a valuable addition, as it covers the difference between what your insurer pays out and the remaining lease balance. This can prevent you from being left with unexpected costs.
Which Cars Have Passed the Keyless Car Theft Test?
Some manufacturers have improved their keyless technology to resist relay theft. Cars that have passed security tests include: Audi e-tron, Land Rover Evoque, Volkswagen Passat, and the BMW X7. These models have stronger encryption, motion-sensing key fobs, or technology that prevents signal relay attacks.
Which Cars Have Failed the Keyless Car Theft Test?
Unfortunately, some popular cars remain vulnerable to relay theft, including Ford Mondeo, Lexus (various models), and the Mazda 3. That is not to say that these models aren’t worth leasing, it is just something you should consider before doing so. By going through and fully understanding car relay theft, you will be able to make an informed decision for your next lease!
Top 10 Ways to Prevent Relay / Keyless Car Theft
While relay theft is a real threat, there are plenty of ways to protect your car. Here are the top 10 steps you can take to reduce the risk of keyless car theft and keep your vehicle safe.
1. Use a Signal-Blocking Pouch (Faraday Pouch)
A Faraday pouch is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent relay theft. These pouches are lined with special materials that block the signal from your key fob, stopping thieves from amplifying it. For the best protection, always keep your keys inside a Faraday pouch when not in use. You can test the pouch by standing near your car and ensuring it doesn’t unlock while the key is inside. It might be worth considering using one for spare keys, too.
2. Turn Off Your Key Fob’s Wireless Signal
Some newer car models allow you to manually disable the keyless entry function when it's not needed. Check your vehicle’s manual or contact the manufacturer to see if your key fob has this feature. Typically, turning off the signal involves pressing a specific button combination or using a menu option in the car's settings.
3. Use a Steering Wheel Lock
A physical deterrent like a steering wheel lock adds an extra layer of security. Even if thieves manage to start the car, they won’t be able to drive it without removing the lock, which takes time and increases their chances of getting caught. Choose a high-quality, police-recommended lock for the best protection.
4. Use a Car Alarm to Deter Thieves
Most modern cars come with built-in alarms, but not all are sensitive enough to detect relay theft. Consider upgrading to an aftermarket alarm system with tilt sensors (to detect if the car is lifted for towing), motion detectors inside the cabin, and sirens loud enough to deter thieves. If you have leased your vehicle, you will need to make sure this option is available within your lease contract.
5. Park Inside a Garage Where Possible
If you have access to a garage, use it! Parking inside and locking the garage door makes it harder for thieves to access your car or intercept the key fob signal. If a garage isn’t an option, park in a well-lit area or close to CCTV cameras.
6. Get Your Windows Etched
Window etching involves engraving your car’s registration number or VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) onto the glass. This makes it less attractive to thieves, as stolen cars with visible etching are harder to sell on. Some insurers even offer discounts for vehicles with security etching. Make sure to check with your leasing company before making any changes to your vehicle.
7. Keep Your Vehicle Tidy
A messy car with valuables on display can make it more appealing to opportunistic thieves. Avoid leaving bags or wallets on seats, laptops or expensive gadgets visible, car keys near windows or doors at home. Even if relay theft isn’t their goal, criminals may break in for valuables and cause costly damage.
8. Prevent Lost Keys from Being Stolen
Misplaced or stolen keys are another risk. To prevent this, keep a close eye on your keys in public places, never leave them unattended on tables in restaurants or cafés, and store spare keys in a secure, hidden location (never in your car).
9. Reprogram Your Keys
If you’re thinking of leasing a used car with keyless entry, it’s a good idea to double check they have been reprogrammed. Speak to the company to see if the keys have been reprogrammed, if not, ask about their policies on reprograming keys.
10. What the Government and Car Manufacturers Are Doing
The UK government is cracking down on keyless car theft, introducing stricter security requirements for manufacturers under the Autonomous and Electric Vehicles Bill. This includes new guidelines for carmakers to reduce the risk of hackers accessing keyless systems, stronger encryption to prevent criminals from intercepting signals, and better tracking technology to locate stolen vehicles faster.
As for manufacturers, they are now taking steps into improve security on their keyless models. An example of this is Ford, its latest key fobs enter sleep mode after 40 seconds of inactivity, stopping thieves from being able to relay the signal. This feature is available on newer models, and some older vehicles can be upgraded with a replacement key fob.
Protecting Your Car from Relay Theft: Key Takeaways
Keyless car theft is on the rise, but with the right precautions, you can make your vehicle a far less attractive target for criminals. Simple steps like using a Faraday pouch, disabling your key fob’s signal, and adding extra security measures such as a steering wheel lock or alarm can make a big difference. While some cars have stronger built-in defences than others, even models that have previously failed security tests can be better protected by following these steps.
Manufacturers and the government are also stepping up their efforts, with new security guidelines and improved technology designed to make keyless cars harder to steal. Brands like Ford have introduced features such as sleep mode key fobs, while the Autonomous and Electric Vehicles Bill is helping to enforce stricter security standards.
By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can protect your car, your belongings, and your peace of mind, ensuring that relay theft doesn’t leave you out of pocket or without transport.