If you’ve purchased a new car recently, chances are, it might have keyless entry.
The ability to get into your car without having to put a key in the lock is convenient, sure, but it also opens the door (literally) to a newer kind of car theft. Thieves are always trying to come up with ways to get their hands on things that don’t belong to them, so you have to be one step ahead of them. Luckily, a few smart habits and small tools can make a big difference in keeping your car secure.
1. Use a signal-blocking pouch or box.
One of the easiest ways to stop thieves from capturing your key fob signal is by storing it in a Faraday pouch or box. These are lined with material that blocks radio frequencies, preventing the signal from being relayed. It’s a small investment that adds big peace of mind. Just pop your keys inside when you’re at home or out and about. Some people even keep a backup pouch in their car or bag for extra protection on the go.
2. Keep your keys away from doors and windows.
Thieves don’t need to break into your house to steal your car—just being close enough to your keys can do the trick. If your fob is near a front door or window, it’s much easier for someone outside to capture and boost the signal. Get into the habit of keeping your keys further inside your home, ideally in a drawer or signal-blocking container. A few extra steps from the entryway could make all the difference in deterring a potential relay attack.
3. Turn off your key’s signal (if possible).
Some newer key fobs allow you to disable the wireless signal entirely, which makes them immune to relay attacks when not in use. You’ll usually find instructions for this in your car manual or on the manufacturer’s website. If your key allows it, turning off the signal overnight or when the car’s parked for long stretches is a solid extra layer of protection. It’s one of the lesser-known tips, but worth checking into.
4. Use a steering wheel lock.
It might feel old-school, but a visible steering wheel lock is still one of the best visual deterrents out there. If a thief can see that it’ll take more time and effort to drive off with your car, they’re more likely to move on to an easier target. It also means that even if your car is unlocked or started with a cloned key, it’s not going anywhere without drawing attention. A bright-coloured lock in plain sight says, “This one’s more hassle than it’s worth.”
5. Keep your car software up to date.
Modern cars run on software, and like anything tech-based, updates help patch vulnerabilities. If your manufacturer releases a software update, especially one related to security, it’s worth getting it done as soon as possible. This applies to both the car itself and any apps connected to it. Keeping everything updated helps make sure you’re not left with outdated protections while thieves get smarter and faster with their methods.
6. Park smart, especially at home.
If you have a garage, use it. Keeping your car behind a locked door instantly adds another obstacle for potential thieves. If you park on the driveway, consider motion-activated lights or even simple CCTV cameras to increase visibility. When parking in public, try to stick to well-lit areas or park in spots that make it difficult to access the driver’s door. Small changes in your routine can reduce your car’s chances of being seen as an easy target.
7. Consider using a wheel clamp.
It’s another throwback tool, but wheel clamps are incredibly effective. They physically prevent your car from being driven away, even if someone gets in and starts it. It’s bulky, yes, but very effective for added security. Especially if your area has seen recent thefts, or you’re heading away for a while, adding this extra layer makes sense. It’s all about stacking security measures so even the most determined thief is put off trying.
8. Don’t ignore suspicious behaviour near your home.
Keyless theft is often a two-person job, with one person near your house picking up the signal and another near the car. If you spot people loitering near your driveway or behaving oddly near your front door, it’s worth taking seriously. Make a note, use security cameras if you have them, and consider reporting it to the non-emergency police line if something doesn’t feel right. A quick check-in could prevent your car being taken in the middle of the night.
9. Use your car’s built-in settings wisely.
Some cars let you disable keyless entry altogether through the settings menu. Others allow you to adjust how long the car stays “unlocked” once you’ve walked away. Exploring your vehicle’s manual or dashboard settings can reveal hidden tools to protect your car. It’s worth doing a bit of digging, as many people don’t realise just how many security options are already built into their car. A few setting tweaks can close off easy access points for would-be thieves.
10. Combine physical and digital protection.
The best defence against keyless car theft is a layered one. No single method is foolproof, but when you combine signal-blocking tools, visible deterrents, and smart habits, you make things a whole lot harder for thieves. Think of it as creating just enough friction to make your car an unattractive target. You don’t have to spend a fortune—just be consistent. A mix of simple tools and mindful routines goes a long way in keeping your car safe.
