The rate of car theft in the UK continues to be a serious problem, despite a minor decline from the previous year. A report by the Office for National Statistics revealed that 129,159 vehicles were stolen between April 2023 and March 2024, keeping vehicle theft at a 15-year high. Read the Report here.
With criminals constantly adapting to new security measures, it’s more important than ever to stay one step ahead, and keep your car safe from thieves.
1. Buy a Faraday (signal blocking) pouch for keyless fobs.
In keyless entry cars, the key fob continuously emits a low-frequency signal when it is nearby. When the car detects this signal, it unlocks, and the ignition can be started with a push-button or keyless ignition system.
These vehicles are vulnerable to relay attacks, where thieves use amplifiers to capture and relay the fob’s signal. One attacker stands near the car, while the other stays close to the key fob, which might be inside a house or pocket. The relayed signal tricks the car into unlocking and starting as if the key were nearby. This method is fast, causes no physical damage, and works from a distance, enabling quick car theft without the owner’s knowledge.
One of the easiest ways to prevent this is by using a Faraday pouch, which blocks the signal and stops thieves from accessing your car. Faraday pouches are affordable and easy to use. You just place your key fob inside when not in use, especially at night. Think about the peace of mind you’d get from a small investment in a Faraday pouch – it’s simple, affordable, and helps keep your car safe from thieves.
2. Invest in car security deterrents
Physical deterrents like steering wheel locks, handbrake locks, etc. make your vehicle a less appealing target. Thieves tend to avoid vehicles that look risky or time-consuming to steal; they want a quick and easy job. While these tools don’t guarantee complete protection, they’re proven deterrents that can keep your car safe from thieves.
Steering Wheel Locks:
A steering wheel lock makes it impossible to turn the wheel without removing the lock. Thieves often avoid cars with these devices, as it makes their attempt more difficult and longer to do. Think about it – would a thief want to waste time trying to wrestle with a steering wheel lock?
Handbrake and Gear Locks:
These locks clamp the handbrake or gear stick in place, preventing the car from being moved. They send a clear message to thieves that your car isn’t an easy target.
3. Buy a GPS tracking device
A GPS tracker won’t prevent theft, but it increases the likelihood of getting your vehicle back. In the unfortunate event that your car is stolen, a GPS tracker can help you recover it quickly. These devices allow you to monitor your car’s location in real time, and you can pass this information on to the police. Why leave it to chance? A GPS tracker lets you keep an eye on your vehicle anytime, anywhere – giving you control even in worst-case scenarios.
4. Secure your OBD port
The OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) port is a diagnostic interface under the dashboard in vehicles that allows mechanics, technicians, and auto locksmiths (us) to connect diagnostic tools to the vehicle’s electronic systems. However, it can also be exploited by thieves to bypass security systems and steal vehicles. Securing your OBD port helps prevent high-tech theft and protects your vehicle’s sensitive electronic systems from unauthorised manipulation. Read more about our OBD Security service here, which helps keep your car safe from thieves.
Install an OBD Port Lock:
Adding a physical lock restricts access to the port, preventing unauthorised connections and theft. We offer an OBD security service, our team can fit a lock that securely protects your port.
Use an OBD Port Alarm:
An alarm device can detect and alert you to any tampering or access to the OBD, offering real-time protection for high-risk vehicles. It’s an effective shield that will keep your car safe from thieves
5. Always lock your vehicle
We know it sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised by how many vehicle thefts occur simply because cars are left unlocked. Recently, we’ve been hearing more reports from Horsham and nearby towns of thieves walking through neighbourhoods, testing car doors up and down the streets. In most cases, they aren’t after the vehicle itself but instead any valuables left inside.
However, while some thieves are content with taking whatever they can find inside the car, others are more equipped and have the technology and tools to steal the vehicle. Leaving your car unlocked not only makes it easier for them to gain access but also increases the chances they’ll go through with stealing the car itself. A locked vehicle serves as a deterrent, but an unlocked one is practically an invitation for more sophisticated criminals to strike. Double-checking may only take a second, but it can make all the difference. Get into the habit of locking it every time, to keep your car safe from thieves!
6. Remove all valuables or keep them hidden
Never leave valuables visible in your car, as they’re one of the biggest incentives for opportunistic thieves. Items like bags, laptops, and even loose change can attract unwanted attention. If you need to leave belongings in your vehicle, then put them in the boot or out of sight. Even small items can tempt thieves, so it’s always best to clear your car of valuables entirely or hide them from view.
Vehicle theft is a growing concern in the UK, but taking proactive steps can reduce your risk significantly. From investing in basic security measures like steering wheel locks to more advanced GPS tracking systems, these tips provide practical ways to keep your car safe from thieves. By staying vigilant and using these tools, you can keep your car safe from thieves and have peace of mind knowing you’ve taken extra measures to guard against theft.
Don’t wait until it’s too late – get in touch with our team to explore security options and keep your car safe from thieves today.
