Keyless car theft, also known as relay theft, is becoming an increasingly prevalent crime, especially in major cities. With the rise of high-tech keyless entry systems in modern vehicles, criminals are finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities and gain unauthorized access to cars. While these systems provide convenience and security, they also create new opportunities for theft.

As your trusted locksmith in Nashville, Armstrong Locksmith is here to help you understand the rise of keyless car theft and offer practical tips on how to protect your vehicle. In this guide, we’ll explore how keyless car theft works and share proven methods to safeguard your vehicle from potential criminals.

1. Understanding Keyless Car Theft

Keyless entry systems are designed to make life easier by allowing you to unlock and start your car without the need for a traditional key. However, they also rely on wireless signals, which can be intercepted and duplicated by criminals using relay devices.

Here’s how the theft typically occurs:

• Criminals use relay devices: Thieves use special equipment to amplify the signal from your key fob, which is typically kept inside your home or purse. This allows them to unlock and start your car without ever having to physically access your keys.
  
• Remote signal capture: The criminal doesn’t need to be anywhere near your car—relay devices can pick up the signal from several feet away, even if your car is parked in your driveway.
  
• Car is unlocked and started: Once the signal is intercepted, thieves can unlock your car and drive off. Since modern keyless entry systems often don’t require physical keys, they can easily bypass your car’s security features.
  
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2. Why Keyless Car Theft is on the Rise

Keyless car theft has grown more common due to the increasing number of vehicles equipped with advanced keyless entry systems. As more car manufacturers adopt this technology for its convenience, thieves have developed increasingly sophisticated methods to exploit vulnerabilities in these systems.

In particular, luxury vehicles, which are often equipped with keyless entry systems, are prime targets. High-end cars tend to have valuable parts and can be resold quickly, making them more attractive to criminals.

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3. How to Protect Your Vehicle from Keyless Car Theft

While keyless entry systems offer a high level of convenience, they also require you to take extra precautions to protect your car from theft. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to safeguard your vehicle from relay theft.

a) Use a Faraday Pouch or Box

A Faraday pouch is a special bag made of materials that block wireless signals. When you place your key fob inside a Faraday pouch, it prevents thieves from capturing its signal. Faraday boxes, which work on the same principle, can be used for storing your key fob at home.

Tip: Always store your key fob in a Faraday pouch when you’re not using it to block any potential signal theft.

b) Turn Off Keyless Entry Features

Some vehicles allow you to turn off the keyless entry feature when it’s not in use. If your car offers this option, disable the keyless entry system when you’re at home or when you don’t need it. This makes it harder for thieves to capture the signal.

c) Install a Steering Wheel Lock

One of the best ways to protect your vehicle from theft is to use a physical deterrent, such as a steering wheel lock. These devices make it much harder for thieves to drive off with your car, even if they manage to unlock it. They’re also a visible deterrent that can make your car less attractive to criminals.

d) Use a Car Alarm or GPS Tracker

Installing a car alarm system that triggers when unauthorized access is attempted can help prevent keyless car theft. Similarly, a GPS tracker installed in your vehicle can help you track your car in the event of a theft, increasing the chances of recovering it.

Tip: Choose a GPS tracker that sends alerts to your phone if your vehicle is moved, allowing you to act quickly if your car is stolen.

e) Park in Secure, Well-Lit Areas

Where you park your vehicle plays a role in preventing theft. Always try to park in well-lit areas with high foot traffic, preferably in secured or monitored parking lots. Criminals are less likely to target cars parked in these locations as they increase the risk of being caught.

f) Consult a Locksmith in Nashville for Keyless Entry Solutions

If you’re concerned about the security of your keyless entry system, a professional locksmith in Nashville can help. Locksmiths are experts in car security and can offer services such as:

• Upgrading your car’s locks: A locksmith can help install additional security features or rekey your car’s locks to ensure they are more resistant to tampering.
  
• Reprogramming your key fob: If you suspect that your key fob signal has been compromised, a locksmith can reprogram your key fob to ensure it’s secure.
  
• Providing additional security options: Locksmiths can offer specialized advice on how to enhance your vehicle’s security, from installing additional alarms to advising on the latest anti-theft technology. Find out when to call locksmith Nashville services—learn the key moments when professional help ensures your safety, access, and peace of mind.
  

4. What to Do If Your Car is Stolen

Despite your best efforts to protect your vehicle, it’s still possible for your car to be stolen. If your vehicle is taken, here are the steps to follow:

1. Report the theft to the police: Provide the authorities with your car’s make, model, VIN (vehicle identification number), and any other identifying information. The police will file a report and begin the search.
   
2. Contact your insurance company: File a claim with your insurance company and provide them with the details of the theft. Your insurance policy may cover the loss, depending on your coverage.
   
3. Alert your locksmith in Nashville: If your car key fob or remote was stolen, let your locksmith know. They can help reprogram your key fob and ensure your vehicle is secure moving forward.
   

Conclusion

Keyless car theft is a growing concern, but by taking the right precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim. From using Faraday pouches to installing advanced car alarms, there are multiple ways to protect your vehicle from relay theft.

As a trusted locksmith in Nashville, Armstrong Locksmith is here to provide expert advice and security solutions to help protect your car from keyless theft. If you’re looking to enhance your car’s security, contact us today for a consultation.