Criminals can exploit weaknesses in keyless entry systems, connected vehicle technology and electronic security. Although the risks vary between manufacturers and models, understanding how these systems can be targeted is an important part of protecting your vehicle.
Keyless car thefts, relay attacks, and electronic vehicle crime continue to rise across the UK, particularly on newer vehicles with advanced technology.
Here are some practical ways to reduce the risk of your car being hacked or stolen.
For more practical ownership advice, visit our maintenance guidance hub.
What Is Car Hacking?
Car hacking usually refers to criminals exploiting a vehicle’s electronic systems to:
- Unlock doors remotely
- Start the engine without a key
- Access onboard systems
- Disable security features
- Steal personal data
One method used by criminals is a relay attack, which involves equipment that relays communication between a vehicle and its keyless fob, potentially allowing the car to be unlocked or started without the owner’s knowledge. Not all vehicles are vulnerable to this method, and criminals may use other electronic or physical techniques depending on the vehicle.
1. Store Your Keyless Fob Safely
One of the simplest ways to reduce theft risk is to keep your keys away from doors and windows.
A better option than storing keys in the fridge is using:
-
A Faraday pouch
Not all Faraday pouches provide the same level of protection, and their effectiveness can deteriorate through wear and tear. Test yours regularly by placing your key inside, closing it completely and checking whether your vehicle remains locked and refuses to start when the key is nearby. Some manufacturers also provide settings that disable or restrict keyless entry, so check your vehicle’s handbook for additional security options.
- A signal-blocking key box
- A metal container designed to block radio signals
These stop criminals from amplifying your key’s signal outside your home.
For cars with modern entry systems, our advice on preventing keyless entry theft highlights practical ways to stop criminals from exploiting wireless vulnerabilities.
2. Use a Steering Wheel Lock
Traditional steering locks still work well as visible deterrents.
Even if thieves gain electronic access to the vehicle, a physical lock:
- Slows them down
- Makes theft harder
- Encourages criminals to target easier vehicles instead
A good-quality steering wheel lock provides an additional physical barrier, even if someone manages to bypass the vehicle’s electronic security. Although no security device can guarantee protection against theft, combining a visible steering wheel lock with other security measures can make your vehicle a less attractive target.
3. Disable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi When Not Needed
Connected cars may use Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and smartphone applications to provide entertainment, navigation and remote vehicle features. Although these connections are convenient, it is sensible to manage them carefully to reduce unnecessary cybersecurity risks.
Where your vehicle allows it:
- Turn off Bluetooth or onboard Wi-Fi hotspots when they are not needed.
- Remove previously paired phones and devices you no longer use.
- Avoid connecting unfamiliar devices to your vehicle.
- Review the permissions granted to connected vehicle apps.
- Keep your smartphone and vehicle software updated.
Disabling Bluetooth or Wi-Fi does not necessarily prevent keyless car theft, as keyless entry systems generally use different wireless technology. However, managing connected features can help reduce unnecessary exposure and protect your personal information.
4. Be Careful With USB Devices
Plugging unknown USB devices into your car can create security risks.
Avoid:
- Random USB sticks
- Cheap unverified accessories
- Unknown charging devices
If you regularly use USB drives in your vehicle, scan them on a computer first using trusted antivirus software.
5. Protect the OBD Port
The OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) port allows mechanics to access vehicle systems — but criminals can also exploit it.
Thieves sometimes use illegal devices connected to the OBD port to:
- Program new keys
- Disable immobilisers
- Access security systems
An OBD port lock or professionally installed security cover can make unauthorised access more difficult. Some vehicle owners also consider OBD port relocation, although this should only be carried out by a qualified professional to avoid interfering with legitimate diagnostics or vehicle systems.
These measures provide an additional layer of protection rather than a guarantee against theft. For advice specific to your vehicle, consult its manufacturer or a reputable automotive security specialist.
Be Careful with Connected Car Apps
Protect your connected car account with a strong, unique password and enable two-factor authentication where the manufacturer supports it. Regularly review which smartphones and users have access to your vehicle, and remove any you no longer recognise or need. If you sell your car, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to disconnect your account, remove paired devices and erase stored personal information before handing over the keys.
6. Keep Your Car’s Software Updated
Many modern cars receive software updates that improve security and fix vulnerabilities.
If your manufacturer offers updates:
- Install them promptly
- Enable automatic updates where available
- Check dealer recalls regularly
Outdated software can leave connected systems exposed.
Not every vehicle receives over-the-air software updates. Some manufacturers require updates to be installed by an authorised dealership or qualified technician. Check your vehicle’s handbook or manufacturer website for the correct procedure, and only install updates from trusted, official sources. Software updates can address known vulnerabilities, although they cannot eliminate every vehicle security risk.
7. Park in a Secure Location
Where you park still matters.
Whenever possible:
- Park in well-lit areas
- Use driveways or garages
- Avoid leaving valuables visible
- Turn wheels toward the kerb when parked
Layering physical and digital security is the best approach.
Where possible, park in a locked garage or a well-lit location with good visibility. If you have a driveway, consider motion-activated lighting, a properly installed security camera or a driveway security post. These measures may discourage opportunistic thieves, but they should be used alongside other vehicle security precautions rather than relied upon individually. Always ensure that any security equipment is installed safely and complies with relevant requirements.
8. Don’t Assume Expensive Cars Are Safer
Luxury vehicles with advanced technology are often targeted more frequently because:
- They’re valuable
- Parts are in demand
- Electronic systems are more complex
More technology can sometimes mean more attack points if security isn’t properly managed.
9. Install a GPS Tracker
A GPS tracking device cannot prevent a vehicle from being stolen, but it may help locate the vehicle afterwards. Some trackers offer movement alerts, tamper notifications and monitoring services, although features and subscription costs vary. Choose a reputable provider, check whether professional installation is recommended and consider whether the system meets any requirements set by your insurer. If your vehicle is stolen, contact the police rather than attempting to recover it yourself.
What To Do If You Think Your Car Has Been Compromised
Signs can include:
- Unexplained unlocking
- Warning lights
- Strange infotainment behaviour
- Battery drain
- Remote access issues
If you suspect tampering:
- Contact your manufacturer or dealer
- Change connected app passwords
- Disable digital access features temporarily
- Report suspicious activity to police
Strengthening your overall vehicle security is a smart first step, and our guide on protecting your car from theft shows how simple habits can reduce both physical and digital risks.
Thinking About Changing Your Car?
If security concerns are making you reconsider your current vehicle, understanding its value can help you decide your next step confidently.
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Final Thoughts: How to Prevent Your Car from Being Hacked
Modern vehicles offer impressive convenience, but their electronic systems can also introduce security risks that drivers should understand.
Protecting your car from hacking and electronic theft is about taking sensible precautions rather than relying on a single security product. Using a tested Faraday pouch, keeping vehicle software updated, protecting connected car accounts and adding physical security measures can all contribute to a more comprehensive approach.
Remember that different vehicles face different vulnerabilities. Check your manufacturer’s security recommendations and consider seeking advice from a reputable automotive security specialist if you are concerned about your particular model.
By combining good digital security habits with practical theft-prevention measures, you can reduce your vehicle’s exposure to unnecessary risks and make it more difficult for criminals to target.