Keyless Car Theft UK

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 800,000 policies arranged, WeCovr explains the UK's keyless car theft epidemic. This guide details the impact on your motor insurance and the essential steps you must take to protect your vehicle, your policy, and your peace of mind.

UK's Keyless Car Theft Epidemic: How It's Skyrocketing Your Insurance & Essential Steps to Protect Your Vehicle & Policy

The convenience of keyless entry has been a welcome innovation for UK drivers. However, this technology has also opened the door to a new, silent, and incredibly effective method of vehicle theft. Organised criminal gangs are exploiting vulnerabilities in keyless systems at an alarming rate, leading to a nationwide epidemic that is having a direct and costly impact on every driver's motor insurance premium.

This is not just a problem for owners of high-end luxury cars. Popular family hatchbacks, vans, and work vehicles are now prime targets. As theft claims soar, insurers are forced to increase prices across the board. Understanding this threat is the first step towards fighting back. This comprehensive guide will explain exactly how the thieves operate, how it affects your insurance policy, and the crucial, layered security measures you can take to make your vehicle a much harder target.

What is Keyless Car Theft and How Does It Work?

Keyless car theft, often called a "Relay Attack," is a method used by criminals to steal vehicles without ever needing the original key fob. It exploits the constant signal that a keyless fob transmits to the car. The process is shockingly simple, can be completed in under a minute, and requires relatively inexpensive electronic gadgets purchased online.

The Relay Attack Explained Step-by-Step

The most common form of keyless theft involves two criminals working in tandem with two pieces of equipment: a relay amplifier and a transmitter.

1. The Hunt: One criminal stands near your house, driveway, or even a café where you might be sitting, holding the relay amplifier. This device is designed to scan for and pick up the weak signal from your key fob, even through walls, doors, and windows.
2. The Boost: The amplifier captures the key fob's unique signal and "relays" or boosts it to the second criminal, who is standing next to your car holding the transmitter.
3. The Trick: The transmitter receives the boosted signal and essentially "tricks" your car's security system into thinking the real key fob is right next to it.
4. The Entry: The car's computer authenticates the signal. The doors unlock.
5. The Ignition: The second criminal can then get in, push the start button, and drive away. The car will continue to run without the key until the engine is turned off. By that time, it's often in a shipping container or a chop shop, never to be seen again.

Other Emerging Theft Methods

While the Relay Attack is the most prevalent, criminals are also using other high-tech methods:

• Signal Jamming: Thieves use a device to block the signal when you press the "lock" button on your fob as you walk away. You believe your car is secure, but the doors remain unlocked, giving them easy access.
• Key Programming/ECU Hacking: More sophisticated thieves can gain access to the car (often by smashing a window) and then plug a device into the onboard diagnostic (OBD) port. This allows them to program a new, blank key fob in minutes or bypass the engine control unit (ECU) immobiliser entirely.

The Alarming Statistics: Keyless Theft by the Numbers

The data paints a stark picture of the UK's vehicle theft problem. According to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and the Association of British Insurers (ABI), the situation has worsened significantly, driven almost entirely by keyless methods.

• Soaring Payouts: The ABI reported that insurers paid out a record £653 million for car theft claims in 2023, the highest annual figure since they started collecting the data. This equates to over £1.8 million paid out every single day.
• Frequency of Theft: A vehicle is now stolen in the UK approximately every eight minutes. Data from the DVLA shows a consistent year-on-year increase in reported thefts.
• High-Value Targets: While all cars are at risk, criminals disproportionately target high-value SUVs and premium brands. However, some of the UK's most popular and common cars are also high on the list due to the value of their parts.

Most Stolen Car Models in the UK (2024/2025)

Insurers and police forces regularly publish lists of the most targeted vehicles. While these can fluctuate, the models below consistently appear as top targets for organised gangs.

Source: Analysis based on data from the DVLA, ABI, and UK police force reports (2024-2025).

How Keyless Theft Skyrockets Your Motor Insurance Premiums

The connection between rising vehicle theft and the cost of your motor insurance UK policy is direct and unavoidable. Insurers operate on the principle of risk. When the risk of a specific event—like theft—increases, the cost to insure against it also rises for everyone.

The Ripple Effect of Theft Claims

1. Increased Claims Volume: As more cars are stolen, insurers pay out more in claims. The ABI's figure of £653 million in a single year is a staggering cost that has to be covered.
2. Higher Underwriting Costs: To cover these payouts, insurers must increase the "premium pot" from which claims are paid. This means charging every policyholder more, even those with a perfect driving and claims record.
3. Vehicle-Specific Risk: Insurers use vast amounts of data to price policies. If your car model is on the "most stolen" list, its individual risk profile is much higher. You will pay significantly more for cover than someone with a less targeted vehicle, even if all other factors (age, postcode, driving history) are identical.
4. Postcode Loading: Crime rates are a major rating factor. If you live in an area with a high rate of vehicle theft, your premium will be "loaded" to reflect that increased risk, regardless of your personal security measures.
5. Impact on Your No-Claims Bonus (NCB): If your car is stolen, you will have to make a claim on your policy. This will almost certainly result in the loss of some or all of your No-Claims Bonus, a discount built up over years of claim-free driving. Even if you have protected your NCB, your base premium will still rise sharply at renewal due to the claim.

The Financial Impact of a Theft Claim

A theft claim doesn't just mean losing your car; it carries a significant financial sting that lasts for years.

As you can see, the consequences are severe. That's why prevention is infinitely better than cure.

Understanding Your UK Motor Insurance Policy

Before you can effectively protect your policy, it's vital to understand what it covers. In the UK, it is a legal requirement under the Road Traffic Act 1988 to have at least Third-Party Only motor insurance for any vehicle used on public roads.

The Three Levels of Car Insurance Cover

1. Third-Party Only (TPO): This is the minimum legal requirement. It covers injury or damage you cause to other people, their vehicles, or their property. It does not cover theft of or damage to your own vehicle.
2. Third-Party, Fire & Theft (TPFT): This includes everything from TPO, but adds cover if your car is stolen or damaged by fire. This is the minimum level of cover you need to be protected against keyless car theft.
3. Comprehensive: This is the highest level of cover. It includes everything from TPFT, plus it covers damage to your own vehicle in an accident, even if it was your fault. It also often includes other benefits like windscreen cover as standard.

For business owners, the obligations are similar. A sole trader's van requires at least commercial TPFT to be covered for theft. For businesses with multiple vehicles, fleet insurance provides a single, manageable policy. WeCovr specialises in helping businesses find the right level of fleet insurance, ensuring all vehicles are legally compliant and properly protected against theft.

Key Policy Terms Explained

Understanding the jargon helps you know exactly where you stand in the event of a claim.

• No-Claims Bonus (NCB) or No-Claims Discount (NCD): A discount you earn for each consecutive year you don't make a claim. It's one of the most significant factors in reducing your premium. A theft claim will typically void your NCB unless you have paid extra for "NCB Protection."
• Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards any claim. It's made up of a compulsory excess set by the insurer and a voluntary excess you choose. A higher voluntary excess can lower your premium, but you must be able to afford the total amount if you claim.
• Optional Extras: These are add-ons you can buy to enhance your policy. Common extras include:
  • Breakdown Cover: Assistance if your vehicle breaks down.
  • Motor Legal Protection: Covers legal costs to recover uninsured losses after an accident that wasn't your fault.
  • Courtesy Car: Provides a replacement vehicle while yours is being repaired after an accident. Crucially, a courtesy car is often not provided if your vehicle is stolen and unrecovered. Check your policy wording carefully.

Essential Steps to Protect Your Vehicle from Keyless Theft

You are not powerless against this threat. By creating multiple layers of security, you can make your vehicle a significantly less attractive target. Thieves are opportunists; they look for the easiest and quickest steal. Your goal is to make it too difficult and time-consuming for them to bother.

Layer 1: Signal Blocking (The Digital Defence)

This is the single most important step for any owner of a keyless car.

• Faraday Pouches or Boxes: These are small, inexpensive containers lined with a special signal-blocking metallic material. When you are at home, work, or in a public place, always put your key fob inside a Faraday pouch. This makes its signal completely invisible to a relay amplifier. Test your pouch regularly to ensure it's still working.
• Turn Off the Fob's Signal: Some car manufacturers (including Ford, Mercedes, BMW, and VW) have introduced key fobs with motion sensors that go into "sleep mode" after being inactive for a short period. Check your vehicle's handbook or contact your dealer to see if your fob has this feature and if it can be manually deactivated.

Layer 2: Physical & Visual Deterrents (Old-School Security)

These traditional security measures are making a huge comeback because they are highly effective visual deterrents. A thief who sees one will likely move on to an easier target.

1. Steering Wheel Locks: Heavy-duty locks like a Disklok or Stoplock Pro are excellent. They are difficult to remove without making a lot of noise and taking a lot of time. This is often enough to deter a thief entirely.
2. Gearstick Locks or Handbrake Locks: These devices physically prevent the gearstick from being moved, immobilising the vehicle.
3. Driveway Security Posts or Bollards: A lockable post installed on your driveway physically blocks the car from being driven away. It's a highly effective, albeit more expensive, solution for home security.
4. Wheel Clamps: While more commonly associated with parking enforcement, a high-quality wheel clamp is a strong visual and physical deterrent.

Layer 3: Advanced Electronic Security (The Recovery & Tracking Layer)

If a determined thief manages to bypass your first two layers of security, this layer gives you the best chance of recovering your vehicle.

• Thatcham-Approved Trackers: These are GPS/VHF tracking devices professionally installed in your vehicle. If the car is stolen, the device is activated, and a 24/7 monitoring centre works with the police to track and recover it. They are categorised by Thatcham Research:
  • Category S7: A tracking system that is activated by the owner after a theft is confirmed.
  • Category S5: The highest level. Includes S7 features plus Automatic Driver Recognition (ADR). You carry a small tag, and if the vehicle is moved without the tag present, an alert is instantly sent to the monitoring centre. This is the gold standard and is often an insurance requirement for high-value vehicles.
• Aftermarket Alarms and Immobilisers: If your car's factory-fitted security is basic, consider upgrading to a Thatcham-approved alarm or immobiliser system for an extra layer of protection.

Layer 4: Good Habits and Situational Awareness

• Park Smart: Whenever possible, park in a locked garage. If you park on a driveway, park defensively (e.g., close to a wall). In public, choose well-lit, busy car parks, preferably those with the "Park Mark" award for security.
• Check Your Locks: Get into the habit of manually checking your car doors are locked after pressing your fob. This defeats any signal-jamming attempts.
• VIN Etching: Etch your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) onto the windows and key components. This makes the car harder for thieves to sell and its parts easier to identify if recovered.

How Security Measures Can Reduce Your Car Insurance Costs

Insurers want you to protect your vehicle. A car that isn't stolen is a claim that doesn't have to be paid. By investing in security, you not only protect your asset but can also earn valuable discounts on your motor policy.

When getting a quote, whether directly or through an expert broker like WeCovr, always declare every security device you have.

Potential Insurance Discounts for Security Devices

Note: Discounts vary significantly between insurers and are not guaranteed. They depend on the vehicle, your location, and your overall risk profile.

WeCovr's expert advisors understand the motor insurance UK market inside-out. They can help you find the best car insurance provider that offers the most generous discounts for the specific security measures you have installed.

What to Do If Your Keyless Car is Stolen

Discovering your car has been stolen is a deeply distressing experience. Acting quickly and methodically is crucial.

1. Call the Police Immediately: Dial 999. Report the theft and provide as much detail as possible: make, model, registration number, colour, and where it was last seen. You will be given a Crime Reference Number (CRN). This is essential for your insurance claim.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company: Call their 24-hour claims line as soon as you have the CRN. Have your policy number ready. They will open a claim file and explain the next steps.
3. Activate Your Tracker (if you have one): Inform your tracking company. They will activate the device and begin liaising with the police to locate your vehicle.
4. Notify the DVLA: You must tell the DVLA that your vehicle has been stolen. Your insurer may handle this, but it is your responsibility to check.
5. Inform Your Finance/Lease Company: If the car is on a finance or lease agreement, you must inform the company immediately. They are the legal owner and will need to liaise with your insurer.

The Insurance Claim Process for Theft

• The Waiting Period: Insurers typically wait for a period (e.g., 2-4 weeks) to see if the police and tracking company can recover the vehicle.
• The Investigation: The insurer will investigate the claim. They may ask for all sets of keys/fobs to prove there was no negligence, the original purchase invoice, and the V5C logbook.
• The Settlement: If the car is not recovered, the insurer will make a settlement offer. This will be for the vehicle's market value at the time of the theft, minus your policy excess. You can negotiate this offer if you have evidence (e.g., from online valuation guides, dealer listings) that it is too low.

WeCovr: Your Partner in Securing the Right Motor Insurance

In today's challenging market, navigating the world of motor insurance can be complex, especially with the added threat of keyless theft. This is where an expert, independent broker makes all the difference. WeCovr is an FCA-authorised insurance broker with deep expertise across the UK car, van, motorcycle, and fleet insurance markets.

We don't work for the insurers; we work for you. Our team helps thousands of drivers and business owners find the right cover at a competitive price. We understand which insurers reward proactive security and can help you present your risk profile in the best possible light. Whether you need cover for a high-risk Range Rover, a family hatchback, or a fleet of commercial vans, our service is provided at no cost to you.

Furthermore, WeCovr enjoys high customer satisfaction ratings, and clients who purchase motor or life insurance through us may be eligible for discounts on other insurance products, providing even greater value.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about keyless car theft and insurance.

Will a steering wheel lock definitely stop my car from being stolen?

A high-quality steering wheel lock is a powerful deterrent, but no single device is 100% thief-proof. Its main purpose is to make your car a much more difficult and time-consuming target. A thief looking for a quick, silent theft via a relay attack will almost certainly see the lock and move on to an unprotected vehicle. It's a vital part of a layered security approach.

Does my comprehensive insurance definitely cover keyless car theft?

Yes, both Comprehensive and Third-Party, Fire & Theft policies cover the theft of your vehicle, regardless of the method used, provided you have not been negligent (e.g., leaving the key fob in the car). The key is to ensure you have met all the policy conditions, such as declaring the correct address and installing any insurer-required security devices. A Third-Party Only policy will not cover theft.

How much will my insurance go up after a theft claim?

This varies, but the increase will be substantial. You will lose most or all of your No-Claims Bonus, which could increase your premium by 60-75% on its own. On top of that, having a recent theft claim makes you a higher risk, so your base premium will also increase significantly. This higher cost will likely persist for up to five years.

I'm struggling to get insurance for a commonly stolen car like a Range Rover. What can I do?

Owners of high-risk vehicles often face extremely high premiums or even refusals from mainstream insurers. The key is to maximise your security and use a specialist broker. Installing a Thatcham Category S5 tracker is often a minimum requirement. Layering this with physical deterrents like a steering lock and driveway posts can help. An expert broker like WeCovr has access to specialist insurers who understand these risks and are willing to offer cover to proactive owners.

Ready to secure your vehicle with the right motor insurance policy?

Let the experts at WeCovr help you compare quotes from a panel of UK insurers to find comprehensive cover that recognises your security efforts and offers you peace of mind at a competitive price.