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Are keyless start cars really easier to steal?
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Even though it’s been around for years now, keyless ignition in a car still feels pretty futuristic. You press a button, the engine roars to life, and your car key doesn’t even need to leave your pocket. You can unlock your car by simply walking up to it. But of course with every new tech, there comes ways to exploit that tech. Keyless start systems are no different, with thieves finding ways to steal a car without ever setting their hands on the physical key. So let’s take a look at exactly how it works – as well as some practical tips for prevention.
Keyless entry and start systems work because the car’s key fob constantly emits a low-frequency radio signal that has a code unique to that car. When you bring your key fob close to your car, the vehicle recognises that signal so you can gain access.
One common way to exploit that technology is to use a ‘relay’ method, which tricks the car into thinking the key fob is closer than it actually is. One thief will hold a relay device close enough to the key fob to pick up the signal, often standing just outside the front door close to where keys are often kept. The thief’s relay device transmits an amplified signal to a second relay device being held close to the car by a second person. The signal is extended from the fob to the car, allowing the thieves to unlock and start the vehicle. Here’s some footage from the UK that shows this in practice:
Another increasingly popular method involves using a reprogrammer device to clone the key fob data, then using this to access the vehicle. In some instances, electronic devices are plugged into a car’s on board diagnostic (OBD) port to override the security system and start the car. It’s like hotwiring, but with code!
Of course, these methods can lead to keyless car theft (with the aim to either rekey the car or chop-shop it for parts), but also pilfering of anything else left in a vehicle like wallets, laptops, tools and other valuables. In recent years, the devices used for keyless car theft have become far cheaper and easier to buy. We’re talking as cheap as $30! Unfortunately, some garage doors can be remotely opened using the same type of technology.
In this sense, keyless car theft has quickly become easier than ever.
We don’t really have much data to clearly understand how many car thefts involve keyless systems in Australia yet. However, Victoria Police issued a warning in early 2025 that keyless start cars had become the latest target for thieves. They also said that one in five vehicle thefts didn’t have a burglary or carjacking associated with it, indicating possible keyless theft. Queensland Police also recently issued a warning about devices that can hack car and home security systems.
The issue has definitely been a massive problem in the US, UK and mainland Europe for some years now. According to the UK's largest car insurer, Admiral, between 60% and 70% of cars stolen between 2023 and 2024 were keyless models. Back in 2016, there were 24 different vehicles from 19 different manufacturers that were vulnerable to relay attacks. As of 2019, German research showed that 230 out of 237 keyless cars tested were vulnerable to attack.
Car manufacturers have definitely cottoned onto the issue, and they’re using a variety of techniques to thwart thieves. Some of these include more advanced encryption, rolling codes, cameras and GPS tracking. Some vehicles allow you to manually switch off your key fob’s wireless signal when it’s not needed, while others like BMW and Mercedes-Benz have added motion sensors to their key fobs to ensure the signal won’t transmit if the key fob is not moving. Some vehicles now allow for multi-factor authentication (MFA) such as a pin to verify it’s you. It’s in manufacturers’ interests to make their cars secure, so there will no doubt be more advancements in this area.
Perhaps the biggest tip in keyless car theft prevention is to move where you keep your keys. A lot of us tend to dump our keys in a bowl near the front door, but this is an ideal place for would-be thieves to gain proximity.
Other options include:
Of course, there are also the straight-forward home security measures that can help to deter thieves in general. Installing motion-activated lights and cameras can help, as can parking in a well-lit and secure area. And amazingly, driving a manual car could improve your chances of keeping your car safe – because fewer and fewer people are learning to drive one!
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