Keyless car theft is rising across Ireland, but protection options range from basic DIY tricks like foil wrapping to professional-grade solutions. Simple methods like Faraday pouches and steering wheel locks offer immediate protection, while advanced tech like GPS trackers and immobilisers provide more robust, long-term security.
Why Is Keyless Car Theft a Problem?
Keyless car theft is rising across Ireland, with Gardaí warning that vehicles fitted with keyless entry systems are increasingly targeted by organised gangs.
What was designed as a convenience, stepping into your car without fumbling for your keys has now become a serious security concern. In this guide, you’ll learn how keyless car theft works, whether your vehicle is at risk, and practical strategies for car theft prevention. From simple at-home tips to advanced protection methods, here’s everything Irish drivers need to know to stay secure in 2025.
How Does Keyless Car Theft Work?
Keyless entry and ignition rely on radio signals between your key fob and your car. The vehicle continuously sends out an interrogation signal, waiting for the key to respond. Normally, this only works when you’re nearby.
Criminals exploit this with what’s known as a relay attack. One thief stands near your home with a device that captures the key’s signal, while an accomplice relays it to your car. Think of it like using an extension cord for your car key’s signal — the thieves stretch it from inside your house out to your car. The car is fooled into thinking the key is right beside it, unlocking and starting even though the key might still be on your kitchen table.
Because this method bypasses immobilisers and locks, the theft can take less than a minute. Gardaí warn these attacks are fast, discreet, and becoming increasingly common. Some insurers now describe cars with keyless entry as the easiest to steal, and this has become a contributing factor in rising car insurance costs.
How Can You Protect Your Keyless Entry Car?
The good news is that protecting your car doesn’t require expensive technology — a few smart habits can make a big difference.
At home, keep your keys well away from the car, ideally upstairs or at least five to ten metres from where it’s parked. A Faraday pouch or box is a simple way to block the signal. If you’re caught short, even a switched-off microwave can do the trick (just don’t turn it on!).
Some manufacturers allow you to disable the wireless function on your keys, and aftermarket OBD port locks can stop thieves from reprogramming them. And while it may feel old-fashioned, a sturdy steering wheel lock is still one of the most effective deterrents. Gardaí continue to recommend these visible barriers because thieves tend to avoid cars fitted with them.
The official advice from An Garda Síochána is clear:
“A low tech security device like a steering wheel lock, gates, and a security barrier are very good deterrents to would-be car thieves. Always stick to the basics of car security first. Ensure your vehicle is parked in a well-lit or secure area, properly locked and all valuables are removed.”
Parking choices also matter. A secure garage is best, but if that’s not possible, park close to a wall, gate, or barrier to make moving the car more difficult. In public places, go for well-lit areas or spots covered by CCTV.
But what about DIY fixes you may have heard of like wrapping your keys in foil? Let’s separate the myths from the practical solutions. And what if, despite your best efforts, your car is stolen? Let’s look at those scenarios next.
Are DIY Fixes Like Foil Effective?
You may have heard about wrapping your keys in foil or even storing them in the microwave at night. In principle, these ideas work the same way as a Faraday pouch: the metal blocks the radio waves your keys emit. But foil is flimsy, awkward to use daily, and unreliable unless wrapped tightly. A microwave, while technically effective, isn’t exactly practical for long-term use (and definitely shouldn’t be switched on!).
The smarter choice is a purpose-built Faraday pouch or lockbox. These are discreet, affordable, and designed for everyday use. They provide the same protection, but in a way that fits neatly into your routine without the fuss.
And while it may feel old-fashioned, a sturdy steering wheel lock is still one of the most effective deterrents. Gardaí continue to recommend these visible barriers because thieves tend to avoid cars fitted with them.
What Advanced Tech Can Protect Keyless Cars?
While low-tech deterrents remain highly effective, technology is evolving to give drivers more peace of mind.
- Digital keys: Many car makers are rolling out digital key functions that live on your smartphone. They use the same NFC technology as contactless payments and require authentication like a passcode, fingerprint, or Face ID. Because they don’t constantly broadcast a radio signal, they are, at least in theory, immune to relay attacks. Still, sharing digital keys with family or friends could create new vulnerabilities, so physical security remains important.
- OBD port locks: These block access to your car’s diagnostic port, preventing thieves from reprogramming a blank key.
- Key “sleep mode”: Some manufacturers now build motion sensors into keys, shutting off the signal after a short period of inactivity.
- Trackers and immobilisers: Aftermarket GPS trackers or professionally fitted secondary immobilisers add another layer of protection and may even lower your insurance premium.
Gardaí continue to remind drivers that even the smartest technology works best when paired with simple basics: visible deterrents, secure parking, and common-sense key storage.
What Should You Do If Your Keyless Car Is Stolen?
Even with strong precautions, thefts can still happen. If the worst occurs, speed is critical.
- Contact An Garda Síochána immediately and provide any CCTV or tracker data that could help.
- Notify your insurer within 24 hours, as most Irish insurers require prompt reporting.
- Remember that stolen cars are often stripped for parts within hours, so acting quickly gives the best chance of recovery.
- If your car is recovered, don’t drive it again until you’ve upgraded its security — treat the theft as a warning sign that more robust protection is needed.
How Do You Stay Safe on the Second-Hand Market?
Keyless cars are becoming more common in the second-hand market, making them bigger targets for thieves, and stolen vehicles are sometimes disguised as legitimate sales. To protect yourself:
- Always run a MotorCheck vehicle history report. This instantly flags if a car has been reported stolen in Ireland or abroad, or if it carries outstanding finance or hidden accident damage.
- Double-check that the VIN matches the logbook and all other documentation.
- Be cautious of unusually cheap deals or incomplete paperwork — these are common red flags for cloned or stolen cars.
If something doesn’t feel right, walk away. It’s far better to miss out on a bargain than to end up with a stolen vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Keyless Car Theft
Can my keyless car be stolen?
Yes, your keyless car can be stolen using relay technology that intercepts and amplifies its signal. Keeping your keys in a Faraday pouch and using visible deterrents like steering locks are two of the best ways to reduce the risk.
Are keyless cars more vulnerable to theft?
Yes, keyless cars can be more vulnerable than traditional cars because criminals can bypass locks and immobilisers using signal-amplifying devices. Gardaí recommend combining electronic protection with physical deterrents for stronger security.
Why put foil around your car keys?
You can put foil around your car keys to block their signal and prevent theft, but foil is unreliable for daily use. A purpose-made Faraday pouch offers the same principle with consistent, practical protection.
Do steering wheel locks prevent keyless car theft?
Yes, steering wheel locks help prevent keyless car theft by adding a strong visual and physical barrier. Even if thieves unlock the car, they usually won’t attempt to remove a steering lock and will move on to an easier target.
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