How to Stop Thieves Scanning Your Car Keys: A Comprehensive Guide to Keyless Car Theft Prevention

Keyless car theft, also known as relay theft, is a growing concern for car owners. Modern vehicles equipped with keyless entry systems offer convenience, but they also present a vulnerability that tech-savvy thieves are exploiting. These criminals use signal-scanning devices to bypass your car’s security system, potentially driving off with your vehicle in mere seconds. Understanding how this type of theft works and, more importantly, How To Stop Thieves Scanning Your Car Keys is crucial for protecting your valuable asset. This guide provides you with expert advice and practical steps to safeguard your keyless entry car from relay attacks.

Understanding Keyless Car Theft (Relay Theft)

To effectively combat keyless car theft, it’s essential to understand the mechanics behind it. Relay theft targets the convenience of keyless entry systems, turning this feature into a potential security weakness.

How Keyless Car Theft Works

The process of keyless car theft is surprisingly simple and alarmingly quick. It involves thieves using readily available technology to exploit the signal emitted by your key fob. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

Step 1: Signal Amplification. A thief, often positioned near your house or where you typically park your car, uses a device known as a relay amplifier. This device is designed to detect and amplify the radio signal emitted by your key fob.

Step 2: Signal Relay. The amplified signal is then relayed to a second thief standing near your car, often with another device called a relay transmitter.

Step 3: Car Deception. The relay transmitter mimics the signal of your key fob, tricking your car into thinking that the legitimate key is nearby.

Step 4: Unauthorized Access. Believing the key is present, the car unlocks its doors and disarms the immobilizer, allowing the thieves to start the engine and drive away.

This entire process can take as little as 20 to 30 seconds, making it a swift and efficient method for car theft.

Proximity is Key: How Close Do Thieves Need to Be?

The effectiveness of relay theft hinges on the proximity of the thieves’ devices to your car keys. Thieves generally need to be within a few meters of your key fob to successfully capture and relay its signal. This is why homes are frequently targeted, as car keys are often kept close to doors or windows, making them easily accessible to signal scanning devices operating from outside.

Speed of the Crime: How Long Does Keyless Car Theft Take?

One of the most concerning aspects of keyless car theft is its speed. As mentioned, the entire process from signal capture to driving off can be completed in under 30 seconds. This speed and efficiency make it difficult to detect and prevent in real-time, emphasizing the importance of proactive prevention strategies.

The Tools of the Trade: Devices Used in Keyless Car Theft

Relay theft relies on specialized electronic equipment designed to intercept and rebroadcast key fob signals. These devices, often referred to as relay amplifiers and transmitters, are becoming more accessible and affordable, contributing to the rise in keyless car theft incidents. While the exact specifications of these devices vary, their function remains consistent: to bridge the distance gap between your key fob and your car, enabling unauthorized access.

Is Your Car at Risk? Identifying Keyless Entry Systems

Understanding if your car has a keyless entry system is the first step in assessing your risk. Keyless entry systems are designed for convenience, allowing you to unlock and start your car without physically using the key.

Cars with keyless entry typically allow you to:

Unlock the car doors by simply approaching the vehicle or touching the door handle, while the key fob remains in your pocket or bag.
Start the engine by pressing a button on the dashboard, again, without needing to insert the key.

If you need to press a button on your key fob to unlock your car, your vehicle is likely not equipped with a keyless entry system and is not vulnerable to relay theft. However, if your car operates as described above, it is crucial to take preventative measures against keyless car theft.

For a more detailed understanding of keyless entry systems, you can consult resources like this guide on keyless entry systems.

Practical Ways to Stop Thieves Scanning Your Car Keys

Now that you understand the threat, let’s delve into actionable strategies on how to stop thieves scanning your car keys and protect your keyless entry vehicle.

1. Utilize a Signal Blocking Pouch (Faraday Bag)

One of the most effective and affordable methods to prevent thieves from scanning your car keys is by using a signal blocking pouch, also known as a Faraday bag.

What is a Faraday Bag?

A Faraday bag is a specially designed pouch lined with metallic materials, such as copper or aluminum. These materials create a Faraday cage, which effectively blocks electromagnetic fields and radio waves.

How Faraday Bags Work to Block Signals

When you place your key fob inside a Faraday bag, the metallic lining prevents the fob’s signal from escaping. This means that thieves with relay devices cannot detect or amplify your key’s signal, rendering their relay theft attempts futile.

Cost and Availability of Faraday Bags

Faraday bags are readily available online and in automotive accessory stores. They are relatively inexpensive, often costing as little as £5 to £20, making them a cost-effective security measure. It’s crucial to ensure you purchase a quality Faraday bag that genuinely blocks signals. You can find reviews and comparisons of Faraday bags in guides like this review of best Faraday bags.

Key Takeaway: Always store your key fob in a Faraday bag when you are at home and not using your car. Remember to also protect any spare key fobs you may have.

2. Disable Keyless Fob Wireless Signal

Some keyless fobs offer the option to manually disable their wireless signal, providing another layer of defense against relay attacks.

How to Turn Off Wireless Signals

The process for disabling your key fob’s wireless signal varies depending on the car manufacturer and model. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions. In many cases, disabling the signal involves a sequence of button presses on the key fob itself. Alternatively, some vehicles may allow you to manage key fob settings through the car’s infotainment system.

If you cannot find information in your manual, contacting your car manufacturer’s customer service or a dealership is recommended. Resources like this guide on disabling keyless remotes or this WikiHow guide might offer general advice, but always prioritize your car’s manual.

Benefits of Disabling Signal

Disabling the wireless signal completely eliminates the risk of signal scanning and relay theft when the feature is active. This is a highly effective method, but it may require you to manually reactivate the signal when you want to use the keyless entry features, which might be less convenient than using a Faraday bag for daily protection.

Key Takeaway: Check if your key fob has a signal disabling feature and learn how to use it. This can be a valuable additional security measure, especially when you are at home or in other secure locations.

3. Employ Physical Security Measures

Combining electronic security with physical deterrents provides a more robust defense strategy. Steering wheel locks and car alarms are effective physical measures to deter car thieves, including those attempting relay theft.

Steering Wheel Locks as Deterrents

Steering wheel locks are mechanical devices that clamp onto your car’s steering wheel, preventing it from being turned. While modern car thieves often rely on electronic methods, the visible presence of a steering wheel lock can be a significant deterrent. It adds a physical barrier that thieves would need to overcome, potentially discouraging them from targeting your vehicle.

When choosing a steering wheel lock, look for products with third-party approvals, such as Sold Secure certification. Sold Secure tests security products against common criminal tools, ensuring they meet a certain level of resistance. You can find approved steering wheel locks here.

Car Alarms and Immobilizers

Car alarms and immobilizers are electronic security systems that provide both audible and functional protection. A car alarm will sound loudly if unauthorized entry or movement is detected, attracting attention and potentially scaring off thieves. Immobilizers, on the other hand, prevent the engine from starting unless the correct key or security code is present.

While relay theft bypasses the keyless entry system to unlock and start the car, an aftermarket alarm system can add extra layers of security. Furthermore, installing a professionally fitted immobilizer can significantly reduce your car insurance premiums. Check with your insurer for approved alarm systems to ensure they qualify for insurance discounts.

Key Takeaway: Consider using a steering wheel lock and/or installing a car alarm and immobilizer to enhance your vehicle’s physical security and deter thieves, regardless of their theft method.

4. Strategic Parking Practices

Where and how you park your car can also play a role in preventing keyless car theft.

Garage Parking: The Ideal Solution

Parking your car in a garage overnight is one of the most effective ways to deter keyless car theft. A garage increases the physical distance between your car and potential thieves attempting to intercept your key fob signal. The walls of your garage can also act as a partial barrier to radio waves, further hindering signal scanning attempts.

Driveway Parking: Defensive Measures

If you don’t have a garage and park on your driveway, adopt defensive parking strategies. Park your car as close to your house as possible. This minimizes the accessible area around your car and increases the distance from the street, making it more difficult for thieves to operate undetected.

Home Security Upgrades

Enhancing your overall home security can also indirectly protect your car. Consider installing outdoor motion sensor lighting and CCTV cameras. Well-lit surroundings and visible security cameras can deter criminals from approaching your property and attempting relay theft. If you park on the street, try to park in well-lit areas. Consulting a local locksmith for a home security check can provide tailored advice on upgrading your outdoor security. You can find useful home security tips here and outdoor security advice here.

Key Takeaway: Prioritize garage parking if possible. If not, park defensively on your driveway and consider enhancing your home security to deter potential thieves.

5. VIN Etching: Making Your Car Less Desirable

VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) etching is a process of permanently marking your car’s windows with the last seven digits of your VIN or your registration number.

How VIN Etching Deters Thieves

VIN etching makes your car less attractive to thieves because it becomes more difficult to resell or dismantle for parts. A car with etched windows is harder to disguise and more easily traceable. If thieves attempt to steal your vehicle via relay theft, the etched windows will remain, making it challenging for them to alter the car’s identity and increasing the risk of detection. Learn more about the value of VIN etching here.

Key Takeaway: Consider VIN etching as a permanent deterrent that reduces your car’s appeal to thieves and increases its traceability.

6. Maintain a Tidy Vehicle Interior

While not directly related to signal scanning, keeping your car tidy can deter opportunistic thieves and prevent related crimes.

Reduce Temptation for Thieves

A cluttered car interior with visible valuables can attract thieves, even if they are not specifically targeting keyless entry systems. Make sure to keep your car free of clutter and hide any electronic devices, such as GPS navigation systems and mobile phones.

Glove Box and Valuables

Keep your glove box empty and, consider leaving it open to show potential thieves that there is nothing of value inside. Avoid leaving any signs of expensive equipment, such as suction cup marks from GPS devices on your windshield.

Key Takeaway: A tidy car interior reduces temptation for opportunistic theft and contributes to overall vehicle security.

7. Secure Lost Car Keys: Prevent Unauthorized Access

Losing your car keys can create a security vulnerability, especially if they fall into the wrong hands.

Reprogramming Keys After Loss

If you lose your car keys, it is crucial to act quickly to prevent potential theft. Contact a local auto locksmith immediately. A qualified locksmith can reprogram your car’s security system to recognize only your current keys and invalidate the lost ones, preventing them from being used to steal your car. You can find more information on reprogramming car keys here and replacing lost car keys here.

Key Takeaway: If you lose your car keys, immediate reprogramming by a professional auto locksmith is essential to maintain your vehicle’s security.

8. Reprogram Second-hand Car Keys: Ensuring Security After Purchase

When purchasing a second-hand vehicle, there’s always a risk that not all sets of keys are provided by the previous owner.

Security Risks of Used Cars

Previous owners might have spare keys that could be used to access your vehicle without your knowledge. To eliminate this risk, it’s recommended to have your car keys reprogrammed when you buy a used car.

Reprogramming for Security

Reprogramming your car keys ensures that only the keys in your possession will work with the vehicle, preventing any potential unauthorized access from previous owners’ keys. While car key programming can be expensive, especially at dealerships, hiring an auto locksmith is usually a more cost-effective option.

Key Takeaway: Reprogramming the keys of a second-hand car is a proactive security measure that provides peace of mind and prevents potential theft risks.

Car Models at Risk and Security Ratings

While any car with keyless entry is potentially vulnerable to relay theft, some models have been identified as being particularly at risk, while others have implemented better security measures.

Popular Car Models Targeted

Popular and widely owned car models are often targeted by thieves due to their prevalence and potential for resale. Models like the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Golf, Nissan Qashqai, and Ford Focus have been reported as being at higher risk of keyless car theft. This was highlighted in a BBC report on popular cars at risk of keyless theft, which cited research analyzing data on relay attacks.

A study by the General German Automobile Club (ADAC) tested 237 keyless cars and found that a staggering 230 of them could be unlocked and started using relay crime techniques. You can view the list of cars tested by ADAC here.

Thatcham Security Ratings: Identifying Safer Models

In 2019, Thatcham Research, a UK-based automotive research center, introduced a security rating system for keyless entry cars to assess their vulnerability to relay theft. Their tests categorized vehicles as either “passed” or “failed” based on their resistance to relay attacks.

PASSED Vehicle Models (Superior Security)

The following keyless entry car models PASSED Thatcham’s relay attack test and were given a Superior security rating:

Keyless Entry Vehicle Model	Pass Or Fail	Security Rating
Audi e-tron	Pass	Superior
BMW 1 Series / 7 Series / 8 Series	Pass	Superior
BMW X6 / X7	Pass	Superior
Ford Puma	Pass	Superior
Jaguar XE	Pass	Superior
Land Rover Evoque	Pass	Superior
Mercedes B-Class	Pass	Superior
Porsche 911	Pass	Superior
Porsche Macan	Pass	Superior
Volkswagen Passat	Pass	Superior

Signal Blocking Pouch protecting car key fob

car key programming - prevent keyless car theft

FAILED Vehicle Models (Poor Security)

The following keyless entry car models FAILED Thatcham’s relay attack test and were given a Poor security rating:

Keyless Entry Vehicle Model	Pass Or Fail	Security Rating
DS3 Crossback	Fail	Poor
Ford Mondeo	Fail	Poor
Kia ProCeed	Fail	Poor
Lexus UX	Fail	Poor
Hyundai Nexo	Fail	Poor
Mazda 3	Fail	Poor
Toyota Corolla	Fail	Poor
Toyota RAV-4	Fail	Poor
Volvo V60	Fail	Poor

Key Takeaway: Check security ratings like Thatcham’s to understand the vulnerability of your specific car model. If your car is rated poorly, implementing robust prevention measures becomes even more critical.

Keyless Car Theft – Frequently Asked Questions

Addressing common queries helps clarify concerns and reinforces preventative strategies.

Does Putting Car Keys in a Tin Block the Signal?

Storing your car key fob in a metallic tin MAY offer some level of signal blocking, as metal can interfere with radio waves. However, the effectiveness of a tin can as a Faraday cage is inconsistent and not guaranteed. It’s recommended to test if the signal is blocked by attempting to unlock your car with the key fob inside the tin while standing near your vehicle. For reliable signal blocking, a dedicated Faraday bag is a more secure solution.

Where Should I Keep My Car Keys at Night?

To prevent keyless car theft, especially relay attacks, store your key fob inside a Faraday bag every night. Additionally, place your keys as far away from doors and windows as possible to maximize the distance from potential signal scanning attempts originating outside your home.

Will My Car Insurance Cover Keyless Car Theft?

Most comprehensive car insurance policies will cover theft, including instances of keyless car theft. However, insurers may require proof that you still possess all sets of keys issued with the vehicle. It’s crucial to check with your specific car insurance provider to understand your coverage details and any specific requirements related to keyless car theft claims.

Are Car Manufacturers Taking Action to Prevent Keyless Car Theft?

Yes, car manufacturers are increasingly aware of the keyless car theft threat and are implementing preventative measures.

Kia is providing Faraday bags to customers to protect their key fobs.
Manufacturers like Ford, BMW, Audi, and Mercedes have introduced motion sensor key fobs. These fobs enter a sleep mode after a period of inactivity, preventing signal relay until motion is detected, adding an extra layer of security.

Are Vans Also at Risk of Keyless Theft?

Yes, vans are also susceptible to keyless theft. Reports indicate a rise in keyless van thefts, with Ford Transit vans being a commonly targeted model. Van owners with keyless entry systems should also take preventative measures to protect their vehicles.

What is the Future of Relay Theft?

Industry experts and law enforcement agencies are working to combat keyless car theft. Organizations like the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner are engaging with car manufacturers to push for enhanced vehicle security standards and technological solutions to mitigate relay theft. In the meantime, proactive measures like using Faraday bags remain crucial for car owners.

Conclusion: Taking Proactive Steps to Secure Your Keyless Car

Keyless car theft is a real and evolving threat, but by understanding how it works and implementing the preventative measures outlined in this guide, you can significantly reduce your risk. Using a Faraday bag is a simple and highly effective first step in how to stop thieves scanning your car keys. Combining this with other strategies like disabling key fob signals, employing physical security measures, and strategic parking provides a layered approach to protecting your vehicle. Stay informed, be proactive, and take control of your car’s security to deter thieves and enjoy the convenience of keyless technology with greater peace of mind.