Security systems Car Security Guide: How to Protect Your Vehicle From Theft

Car theft is on the rise, especially involving modern keyless entry systems. Thieves today don’t need to break windows or "hot-wire" anything; many use technology to trick your car into unlocking itself.

This guide explains the most common methods used by criminals and the steps you can take to keep your car safe without incurring significant expenses.

The security advice in this guide is provided for general information only. SEATCUPRA.NET does not guarantee that any method described will prevent theft or damage, and we cannot be held responsible for how this information is used. Readers should assess their own circumstances and, where appropriate, seek professional security advice.

1. The Basics: How Modern Car Theft Works​

Keyless Entry Relay Theft​

This is now one of the most common methods. Thieves use a pair of small electronic devices:

• Device 1 captures the signal from your car key, often from inside your house.
• Device 2 sends that signal to your car, making it think the key is standing next to it.

The car unlocks, the engine starts, and within seconds, the thief and the car are gone.

Relay theft can work through walls, windows, and front doors, which is why keyless cars are desirable targets.

Other Common Methods​

• Signal amplification: boosting your key’s signal so the car unlocks.
• OBD port attacks: gaining access to the car’s onboard computer and programming a new key.
• Breaking in to steal the keys: still surprisingly common.
• Taking advantage of weak home security: open garages, unlocked doors, visible keys.

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2. Protecting Your Keyless Entry Car​

Use a Signal-Blocking Pouch or Box (Faraday pouch)​

This is the most critical step for keyless owners.

A Faraday pouch stops your key signal from being accessed, meaning a thief can’t relay it.

Tips:

• Keep both your primary key and spare key in a pouch.
• Test it: put the key inside the pouch and try to open the car; it should not unlock.
• Replace pouches when worn out (usually every 6–12 months).

Turn Off Keyless Entry (if your car allows it)​

Some cars let you disable the keyless system through the dashboard menu or via the key fob.

If you prefer convenience, switch it back on when needed; however, disabling it overnight can prevent most relay attempts.

Don’t Leave Keys Near Doors or Windows​

A relay device works better when your keys are close to the front door or window.
Move them:

• Away from the front door and windows
• Away from external walls
• Inside a Faraday box or metal tin

Use a Steering Wheel Lock​

Old-school, but highly effective. Modern thieves seek quick and silent victories.

A visible lock adds time and effort, and many will move on.


Choose:

• A Sold Secure Gold-rated lock
• One that fully covers the steering wheel
• A bar-type lock for extra deterrence

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3. Secure Your Home Environment​

Improve Driveway Visibility​

Thieves avoid well-lit areas. Install:

• Motion lights
• A doorbell camera
• A visible CCTV camera (even a dummy can help)

Park Smart​

When possible:

• Park nose-first against a wall
• Turn the wheels to make towing more difficult
• Park behind another vehicle if you have more than one

Garage Storage​

If you have a garage, use it. If you don’t want to park inside, at least keep garage doors locked so thieves can’t hide while working on your car.

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4. Protecting the Car Itself​

Use the Car’s Built-In Security Features​

Check your manual or dealer for:

• Auto-lock settings
• Double-locking (locks doors even if windows broken)
• Alarm system activation
• Immobiliser settings

Add an OBD Port Lock​

This prevents thieves from accessing the car’s computer to program a new key.

Install a Tracker​

If the worst happens, a tracker vastly improves the chances of recovery.

Look for:

• Thatcham-approved S5 or S7
• Anti-jam and alert features
• Subscription-based monitoring

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5. Everyday Habits That Make a Big Difference​

These simple steps take seconds but close off many opportunities:

• Always check your car is locked: keyless systems sometimes fail to lock on weak signals.
• Listen for the audible lock beep or watch for the indicator flash.
• Never leave belongings or tech visible inside.
• Lock the car even when on your driveway.
• Avoid leaving the car running while unattended (e.g., warming up in winter).

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6. What to Do If You Suspect Someone Is Targeting Your Vehicle​

If you notice strange behaviour, such as people repeatedly walking past with handheld devices, or your doorbell camera catches someone checking door handles:

• Report to the police non-emergency line (101).
• Let neighbours know.
• Change where you store your keys.
• Add a wheel lock or tracker if you don’t already have one.
• Check car logs for any alerts if your model has a connected app.

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7. Quick Checklist​

Must-do items (highest impact):

• Faraday pouch
• Steering wheel lock
• Don’t store keys near doors or windows

Strong protection extras:

• CCTV/doorbell camera
• Tracker
• OBD port lock
• Disable keyless entry

Good habits:

• Physically check that the car is locked
• Remove valuables
• Park smartly