Can keyless cars be stolen? This is a question that has been on the minds of many car owners, especially those who have recently upgraded to a keyless vehicle. With the convenience of pushing a button to unlock and start your car, it’s natural to wonder if this technology makes your vehicle more vulnerable to theft. In this article, we will explore the security features of keyless cars and discuss the likelihood of them being stolen.
Keyless cars, also known as push-button start vehicles, have become increasingly popular in recent years. These cars use a key fob or a smartphone app to unlock and start the engine, eliminating the need for a traditional key. While this technology offers numerous benefits, such as convenience and enhanced security, it has also raised concerns about the possibility of keyless cars being stolen.
One of the primary concerns is the ease of unlocking a keyless car. Since the key fob or smartphone app can be used to unlock the vehicle, thieves may attempt to steal them to gain access to the car. However, modern keyless cars are equipped with various security features to prevent such thefts.
Firstly, keyless cars typically use a rolling code system for the key fob or smartphone app. This means that the code used to unlock the car changes every time the key fob is used, making it extremely difficult for thieves to replicate the code and gain access to the vehicle.
Secondly, keyless cars often come with a feature called ” immobilizer.” This feature prevents the engine from starting unless the key fob or smartphone app is within a certain range of the car. This range can be adjusted by the owner, and it can be set to a distance that is difficult for thieves to breach.
Moreover, many keyless cars are equipped with a “thief alarm” that sounds if the car is tampered with or if the key fob is taken away from the vehicle. This alarm can deter potential thieves and alert the owner to the possibility of theft.
Despite these security features, keyless cars can still be stolen. Thieves may resort to more sophisticated methods, such as using a relay attack. In a relay attack, a thief uses a device to intercept the signal from the key fob and relay it to the car, allowing them to unlock and start the vehicle from a distance. This method can be particularly effective if the thief can position themselves between the key fob and the car.
To protect your keyless car from theft, it is essential to follow these tips:
1. Keep your key fob or smartphone app in a secure location, such as a metal box or a Faraday bag, to prevent relay attacks.
2. Set the immobilizer range to a distance that is difficult for thieves to breach.
3. Park your car in well-lit, visible areas when not in use.
4. Be cautious when using your key fob or smartphone app, as thieves may be watching for opportunities to intercept the signal.
5. Consider installing additional security measures, such as a steering wheel lock or a car alarm.
In conclusion, while keyless cars can be stolen, the likelihood of this happening is relatively low, thanks to the advanced security features available. By following the tips mentioned above, you can help protect your keyless car from theft and enjoy the convenience of push-button start technology.
