Many modern vehicles can now be stolen without thieves ever touching the keys. Using specialist electronic equipment, criminals can unlock and drive away certain vehicles in under a minute.
This method is commonly known as relay theft or keyless car theft.
How Does Relay Theft Work?
Most modern vehicles with keyless entry constantly communicate with the key fob using a short-range wireless signal. When the vehicle detects the correct signal nearby, the doors unlock automatically and the engine can start with the push of a button.
Criminals take advantage of this system using signal-boosting devices.
In many cases:
- One thief stands close to your home carrying a relay device.
- A second thief stands beside the vehicle with another device.
- The first device searches for the signal coming from your key fob inside the house.
- The signal is then relayed or “boosted” to the second device beside the car.
- The vehicle believes the key is nearby and unlocks.
Once inside, the thieves can often start the engine and drive away within seconds.
Why Are Driveways Common Targets?
Many people leave their keys:
- Near front doors
- On hallway tables
- Near windows
- On kitchen counters
This makes it easier for thieves outside the property to detect and extend the signal from the key fob.
Vehicles parked on driveways or directly outside homes are often easier targets because criminals can work quickly without attracting much attention.
Why Don’t Alarms Go Off?
One reason keyless theft is difficult to spot is that the vehicle believes the real key is present.
As a result:
- Doors unlock normally
- No glass is broken
- No forced entry is detected
- Alarms often stay silent
To neighbours or passers-by, it may simply look like the owner is driving away.
Can Any Vehicle Be Targeted?
Not every vehicle is vulnerable, but many modern cars with keyless entry systems can potentially be targeted.
Popular targets often include:
- Land Rover
- BMW
- Mercedes-Benz
- Ford
Criminals often target vehicles with:
- High resale value
- Expensive parts
- Strong overseas demand
How To Reduce The Risk
Simple security measures can make your vehicle less attractive to thieves:
- Store keys away from doors and windows
- Use a Faraday pouch or signal-blocking box
- Fit a steering wheel lock
- Install motion lights or CCTV
- Keep vehicle software updated where possible
While no security method is guaranteed, visible protection can encourage thieves to move on to an easier target.
If your vehicle is ever stolen, report it to the police immediately and consider listing it quickly on mystolencaronline.com to help increase public awareness.
Coming Next
5 Signs Your Vehicle Could Be a Target for Keyless Theft
