Keyless vehicle theft continues to be a concern for many motorists across the UK. While no vehicle owner expects their car to be stolen, certain factors can make a vehicle more attractive to criminals.
Here are five signs that your vehicle could be at greater risk.
1. Your Keys Are Kept Near the Front Door
Many people place their keys on a hallway table, shelf, or hook near the entrance to their home.
Unfortunately, this is exactly where thieves hope to find them.
If your vehicle uses keyless entry, criminals may attempt to capture and relay the key fob signal without ever entering your property.
Tip: Store keys well away from doors and windows whenever possible.
2. Your Vehicle Is Parked on a Driveway Overnight
A driveway may feel secure, but it can also provide easy access for thieves targeting keyless vehicles.
Cars parked directly outside the home are often easier for criminals to approach quickly and quietly, particularly during the early hours of the morning.
Tip: If available, consider parking in a locked garage or a well-lit area.
3. You Don’t Use Additional Security Devices
Many modern vehicles rely heavily on electronic security systems. Unfortunately, thieves are becoming increasingly skilled at bypassing them.
Visible security devices, such as steering wheel locks, can serve as a powerful deterrent.
Criminals generally prefer easy targets and may move on if they see additional security measures in place.
Tip: A quality steering wheel lock can provide an extra layer of protection.
4. Your Vehicle Is a Popular Model
Some vehicles are targeted more frequently because:
- They are in high demand.
- Their parts are valuable.
- They can be sold quickly.
Popular makes and models often attract unwanted attention from organised criminal groups seeking vehicles that can be moved on quickly.
This doesn’t mean your vehicle will be stolen, but it may be worth taking extra precautions if you own a commonly targeted model.
5. There Is Little or No Visible Security Around Your Property
Dark driveways, poor lighting and a lack of CCTV can make a property more appealing to opportunist thieves.
Good lighting and visible cameras can increase the risk of detection and may encourage criminals to look elsewhere.
Tip: Motion-activated security lights are often a simple and effective deterrent.
Is Your Vehicle Protected?
Take a moment to consider the five points above.
- Are your keys stored safely?
- Is your vehicle visible from the road?
- Do you use additional security devices?
- Is your driveway well lit?
- Have you considered using a Faraday pouch?
A few small changes could help reduce the risk of becoming a victim of keyless vehicle theft.
If your vehicle is ever stolen, report it to the police immediately and consider listing it on mystolencaronline.com to help spread awareness and increase the chances of it being spotted.
Coming Next
Cheap Ways to Protect Your Car From Keyless Theft
We’ll look at affordable security measures that could help make your vehicle less attractive to thieves.
