Keyless Car Theft UK

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 800,000 policies arranged, WeCovr provides this essential guide to keyless car theft, helping you navigate the complexities of modern vehicle security and motor insurance in the UK. This threat is real, but with the right knowledge and protection, you can safeguard your vehicle.

The Hidden Risks of Keyless Entry: Essential Steps UK Drivers Can Take to Protect Their Vehicle and Insurance in 2024

The convenience of keyless entry has become a standard feature on most new cars in the UK. The ability to unlock your doors and start the engine without ever touching the key fob is a small luxury that many drivers now take for granted. However, this convenience has opened the door to a new, silent, and highly effective form of crime: keyless car theft.

Organised criminal gangs are increasingly using sophisticated electronic gadgets to exploit vulnerabilities in keyless entry systems, allowing them to steal a vehicle from a driveway in under 60 seconds, often without making a sound. The scale of this issue is significant, with recent data suggesting a large proportion of all stolen vehicles are now taken using this method.

This article breaks down the risks, explains how thieves operate, and provides a comprehensive guide to protecting your vehicle. We will also explore the crucial role your motor insurance policy plays and how to ensure you have the right cover in place should the worst happen.

What is Keyless Car Theft and How Does It Work?

Understanding the enemy is the first step in defending against them. Whilst car theft has existed for as long as cars themselves, the methods have evolved dramatically. Today's most prevalent technique is the Relay Attack.

A relay attack requires two criminals working together, equipped with a pair of simple electronic devices: a relay amplifier and a relay transmitter.

Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how a typical relay attack unfolds:

1. The Target: Thieves identify a desirable vehicle parked on a driveway or street, usually at night.
2. The Signal Hunt: One criminal stands near the house holding the relay amplifier. This device is designed to scan for and pick up the weak signal continuously emitted by the car's key fob, which might be on a hallway table or a hook just inside the front door.
3. The Amplification: The amplifier boosts this weak signal and 'relays' it to the second criminal, who is standing next to the target vehicle with the transmitter.
4. The Trick: The transmitter device mimics the key fob. It receives the amplified signal and effectively fools the car's security system into thinking the real key is right next to it.
5. The Entry: The car's doors unlock. The criminal can get inside.
6. The Getaway: As the amplified signal is still being transmitted, the car's keyless start function is also enabled. The thief simply pushes the start button and drives away. The entire process is silent, requires no forced entry, and can be over in less than a minute.

Other Methods Criminals Use:

• Signal Jamming: Thieves use a device that blocks the signal when you try to lock your car with your fob. You walk away thinking your car is secure, but it remains unlocked and vulnerable.
• Key Programming/Cloning: More sophisticated criminals may gain access to the vehicle (perhaps through jamming) and then plug a device into the car's on-board diagnostic (OBD) port to program a new, blank key.

The Shocking Statistics: A Look at Vehicle Crime in the UK

The numbers paint a stark picture. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), vehicle theft remains a persistent issue across England and Wales. The Association of British Insurers (ABI) reported that the cost of vehicle theft claims paid out by insurers in a recent year was the highest on record, highlighting the increasing value and sophistication of the vehicles being targeted.

Crucially, the ABI notes that advanced security systems have made cars harder to "hotwire," meaning a vast majority of thefts are now committed by criminals who have found ways to access and use the vehicle's own technology against it, with relay attacks being the primary method.

Most Targeted Vehicles in the UK

Certain models are consistently targeted by thieves due to their popularity, resale value (both whole and for parts), and sometimes, their specific security vulnerabilities.

This list is based on recent trends and data from police and insurance sources.

Essential Steps to Protect Your Vehicle from Keyless Theft

Protecting your car is about creating layers of security. The more obstacles you put in a thief's way, the more likely they are to give up and move on to an easier target.

1. Physical and Signal-Blocking Security (The First Line of Defence)

These are often the cheapest and most effective deterrents.

• Faraday Pouch or Box: This is non-negotiable for any owner of a car with keyless entry. A Faraday pouch (also known as a signal-blocking pouch) is a small bag lined with a special metallic material. When you place your key fob inside and seal it, it blocks the fob from sending or receiving any radio signals. This completely neutralises a relay attack.
  • Top Tip: Buy two. One for your main key and one for your spare. Test them regularly. Place your key in the pouch, walk up to your car, and see if you can open the door. If you can, the pouch is no longer working. Keep the pouch away from your person to ensure a valid test.
• Steering Wheel Lock: A highly visible and effective physical deterrent. Old-school devices like the Disklok or Stoplock have seen a huge resurgence. A thief who has successfully bypassed your electronic security with a relay attack may still be completely deterred by the sight of a sturdy metal lock on the steering wheel. It requires noisy, time-consuming tools to remove, which is exactly what car thieves want to avoid.
• Driveway Security: If you park on a driveway, consider installing a lockable bollard or gate. Motion-activated security lights and visible CCTV cameras can also make thieves think twice.

2. Technical Security (Fighting Tech with Tech)

• "Sleeping" Key Fobs: Many newer car models now come with fobs that have a motion sensor built in. If the key is left stationary for a few minutes (e.g., on a table), it stops transmitting its signal, effectively going to sleep. Check your vehicle's handbook or contact your manufacturer to see if your fob has this feature.
• Deactivate the Fob: Some fobs can be manually switched off. This usually involves a specific sequence of button presses. Again, check your car's manual for instructions. It's a simple, free step that offers complete protection.
• Aftermarket Immobilisers and Trackers: For high-value or high-risk vehicles, a Thatcham-approved immobiliser or tracking device is a sound investment.
  • Immobiliser: A device that prevents the engine from starting unless a unique tag or fob is present inside the car. This acts as a secondary layer of electronic security.
  • Tracker: A GPS device that allows the police to track the location of your stolen vehicle, dramatically increasing the chances of recovery. Many insurers offer premium discounts for vehicles fitted with an approved tracker.

Best Practice and Simple Habits

• Store Keys Safely: Never leave your keys in the hallway or near your front door or windows. Store them in a Faraday pouch, well away from the exterior walls of your home.
• Parking Strategy: When away from home, park in busy, well-lit areas. If possible, use a secure, patrolled car park, such as one with the Park Mark award.
• Check for Jammers: When you lock your car, always physically check that the doors are locked and listen for the locking sound. Watch for the indicator lights to flash. This simple habit defeats signal jammers.

How Keyless Theft Impacts Your Motor Insurance UK Policy

Having your car stolen is a deeply stressful experience. Understanding how your motor insurance works in this scenario is vital.

First and foremost, it is a legal requirement in the UK to have at least Third-Party Only insurance for any vehicle used on public roads. However, this basic level of cover will not protect you against theft.

Understanding Your Level of Cover

It is crucial to know what your policy covers. WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker, can help you compare policies to ensure you have the right protection at no cost to you.

As the table shows, you need either a Third-Party, Fire & Theft or a Comprehensive policy to be covered for the theft of your vehicle.

Making a Claim for a Stolen Vehicle

If you are the victim of keyless car theft, follow these steps immediately:

1. Contact the Police: Report the theft as soon as you realise it has happened. You will be given a Crime Reference Number (CRN). This is essential for your insurance claim.
2. Contact Your Insurer: Call your insurance provider's claims line. They will require the CRN and details of the incident. Be prepared to answer questions about the vehicle's security, where the keys were, etc.
3. Provide the Keys: Your insurer will almost certainly ask you to provide them with all sets of keys for the vehicle. This is to prove that the car was stolen without your consent and that the keys were not simply left in the ignition. If you cannot provide all the keys, it may complicate or invalidate your claim.

The Financial Consequences of a Theft Claim

Even with a successful claim, there are financial implications:

• The Policy Excess: This is the pre-agreed amount you have to pay towards any claim. If your car is valued at £20,000 and your policy excess is £500, the insurer's maximum payout will be £19,500.
• Loss of No-Claims Bonus (NCB): A theft claim will typically result in the loss of some or all of your NCB, unless you have specifically paid to protect it. This will lead to higher premiums at renewal.
• Increased Future Premiums: Having a theft claim on your record will unfortunately class you as a higher risk, meaning your car insurance quotes will be more expensive for the next few years. An expert broker can be invaluable here, helping you find the best car insurance provider who specialises in cover for drivers with previous claims.
• Market Value Payout: Insurers pay out the "market value" of the car at the time of the theft, not what you paid for it. This amount is what it would cost to buy a like-for-like replacement of the same age and condition.

Protecting Your Fleet: Keyless Theft Advice for Business Owners

Keyless theft is a major threat to businesses that operate vehicle fleets, whether it's a handful of vans for a tradesperson or a large fleet of company cars. The loss of a single vehicle can cause significant operational disruption and financial damage.

Robust fleet insurance is the foundation of your protection, but proactive security management is just as important.

Key Fleet Management Strategies:

• Mandatory Security Procedures: Enforce a strict policy for all drivers. This must include the mandatory use of Faraday pouches for vehicle keys, both at the office and at the driver's home.
• Install Trackers Across the Fleet: For businesses, trackers are not just a recovery tool; they are an essential management asset. Telematics data can monitor driver behaviour, improve efficiency, and provide irrefutable proof of a vehicle's location. WeCovr specialises in finding fleet insurance policies that recognise and reward the use of such technology.
• Regular Audits and Driver Training: Don't just set a policy—enforce it. Carry out spot-checks to ensure drivers are using Faraday pouches and steering locks. Include vehicle security best practices as part of your employee induction and regular training.
• Secure Overnight Parking: Where vehicles are returned to a depot, ensure it is a secure compound with gates, lighting, and CCTV. For drivers who take vehicles home, provide guidance on safe parking.

By demonstrating to insurers that you have stringent security protocols, you can often negotiate more favourable motor policy terms.

The Future of Vehicle Security: What's Next?

Car manufacturers are under increasing pressure from consumers, police, and the insurance industry to improve security. The next generation of vehicles is already seeing new technology designed to combat relay attacks.

• Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Technology: This is the new gold standard. Unlike the old radio frequency signals, UWB can precisely measure the distance between the key and the car. It can tell if the key is three metres away inside the house or 30 centimetres away in your pocket, making it immune to relay attacks which can only trick the car about the signal's origin, not its distance.
• Biometric Security: Some high-end models are already introducing fingerprint sensors or facial recognition to authorise starting the engine, adding a personal layer of security that cannot be relayed.
• Smartphone Integration: Using your phone as a key is becoming more common. These systems often use Bluetooth or Near Field Communication (NFC) and have multiple layers of digital security, making them harder to exploit than a simple key fob.

When buying your next car, it is worth asking the dealer specifically what anti-theft technology is included to combat relay attacks. A vehicle with UWB keys may command a lower motor insurance UK premium than one without.

At WeCovr, we believe that informed customers make better choices. We can provide discounts on other types of cover, such as home or life insurance, if you take out a motor policy with us. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to clear, expert advice.

The threat of keyless car theft is a modern problem that requires a multi-layered solution. By combining physical deterrents, technical safeguards, and simple good habits, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim.

Equally important is ensuring your vehicle cover is robust and appropriate for your needs. Prevention is always better than cure, but the right insurance provides the ultimate safety net.

Ready to review your protection? Get a fast, free, and competitive motor insurance quote from the experts at WeCovr today. We compare leading insurers to find you the right cover at the right price, for your car, van, or entire fleet.