Drivers urged to put car keys 'in the microwave' to deter thieves
As more criminals target vehicles with keyless entry, drivers have been given a tip that can help them make break ins much harder to achieve.
The used vehicle retailer Cinch has shared a number of ways in which motorists can protect their car from thieves, even if it has keyless entry.
A feature seen on a growing number of new cars, keyless entry can be incredibly convenient for owners, but make a model much easier for thieves to break into and drive away.
To prevent this, Sam Sheehan, Motoring Editor at Cinch, recommended drivers put their keys in a safe location that blocks signals it produces, such as a Faraday pouch or even a microwave.
He advised: "You can keep your keys in an aluminum tin, or pop them in the microwave, to block the signal, but a proper Faraday pouch or box is the best way forward.
"You can even get smaller Faraday pouches to keep your keys in when you're out and about."
Another way in which drivers can keep their keyless-entry cars safe from criminals is by investing in some of the more traditional security accessories.
Steering wheel locks and wheel clamps may be seen as items from a bygone era, but show to thieves that drivers are proactive about the security of their vehicle.
Moreover, removing these items would mean a criminal has to spend more time near the car before they can move off, meaning they are more likely to be spotted by passers-by.
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Sam also suggested that owners of a car with keyless entry make sure that their vehicle is able to receive any over-the-air updates issued by the manufacturer, which can help to boost security features.
He explained: "Many software updates include new security measures to combat new types of criminal technology.
"Ultra-wideband technology is being used more by manufacturers, which is better at stopping thieves tapping into keyless fob signals, so security is improving. It's something worth looking our for when you get your next car."
One company that has upgraded the security features on a number of its models is Jaguar Land Rover. In November 2023, the company noted that around 65,000 vehicles made between 2018 and 2022 were upgraded in a bid to deter thieves from the luxury cars.
The changes include making it harder for criminals to intercept signals from the keyless entry system and improve the Guardian Mode service, which can alert owners of any unauthorised interaction with the car.
Drivers of other car brands are urged to make sure that over-the-air updates are turned on, if their vehicle can receive them, and look for emails or letters that state whether the manufacturer has an update or recall on their vehicle.
