Car thefts are escalating across the UK, with keyless entry systems becoming prime targets for criminals. Thieves are exploiting these systems using relay attacks, enabling them to steal cars in seconds without needing the owner’s key fob.
“They took my Range Rover in less than a minute” – West London driver speaks out
James Carter, 42, a business consultant from West London, knows firsthand how devastating keyless car theft can be. Three months ago, his Range Rover Sport was stolen from his driveway in the early hours – without any alarms, broken glass, or signs of forced entry.
“I had just gone to bed when I heard a faint noise outside, but I didn’t think much of it,” James recounted. “The next morning, my Range Rover was gone. I checked my CCTV, and I couldn’t believe what I saw. Two men approached my house – one near my front door and the other by my car. Within less than 60 seconds, they were inside and driving off.”
James and his family had saved for years to buy the car, which was supposed to be a long-term investment. “It wasn’t just a car to us. It was something we had worked hard for, and in seconds, it was gone. The police told me there was little chance of recovering it. It’s just devastating.”
James’ experience is far from unique. Relay thefts like this are happening every night across the UK, with thieves specifically targeting keyless entry vehicles.
Car brands most targeted by thieves
While all keyless entry cars are at risk, certain brands are being stolen at alarming rates, with some models being hit harder than others.
According to car experts at Plates Express, if you own a car from one of these brands, you’re at higher risk:
- Ford (Fiesta, Focus, Kuga)
- Volkswagen (Golf, Polo, Tiguan)
- Land Rover (Range Rover Sport, Evoque, Velar)
- Mercedes-Benz (C-Class, E-Class, GLC)
- BMW (3 Series, 5 Series, X5)
- Nissan (Qashqai, Juke, X-Trail)
- Audi (A3, A4, Q5)
- Toyota (RAV4, Corolla, Yaris)
- Kia (Sportage, Niro, Sorento)
- Hyundai (Tucson, Santa Fe, i20)
These models are among the most stolen vehicles in the UK, with thieves targeting them specifically for their keyless entry systems.
How to protect your keyless car from theft
Security experts recommend the following essential steps to prevent relay attacks:
- Use a Faraday pouch. A signal-blocking pouch prevents thieves from amplifying your key’s signal. Keep your key inside it whenever you’re not driving.
- Install physical deterrents. Steering wheel locks, pedal locks, and wheel clamps make your car less attractive to thieves.
- Disable keyless entry. Some vehicles allow you to turn off keyless entry via the settings—check your owner’s manual.
- Upgrade your security. Aftermarket alarms, immobilisers, and GPS tracking devices can make recovery easier if your car is stolen.
- Be mindful of key placement. Keep your key away from doors and windows and store it in a metal box or a signal-blocking container.
- Park smart. If possible, park in a locked garage, behind a gate, or in a well-lit area to make theft more difficult.
Government takes action against keyless car theft devices
In response to the rising threat of keyless car thefts, the UK government has introduced new legislation targeting the possession and distribution of devices used to commit these crimes. Under the new law, individuals found with electronic devices designed to facilitate vehicle theft could face up to five years in prison.
A 2022–2023 crime survey for England and Wales revealed that 40% of vehicle thefts involved the use of electronic devices like keyless repeaters and key signal amplifiers.
“Car theft is evolving, and relay attacks are now one of the most common methods used by criminals,” warns a security expert. “Drivers need to take this seriously. A simple investment in a Faraday pouch or steering lock could be the difference between keeping your car or losing it overnight.”
If you drive a keyless entry vehicle, don’t assume you’re safe. Take action now; because thieves won’t wait.