Even modern locking systems and security devices are not enough to completely prevent car theft. The car thieves who commit these crimes often belong to specialised, organised gangs. These gangs do not just have their sights on luxury cars; they also target mid-range cars, which are often less well protected and easier to transport abroad.
Precautions to take to prevent your car being stolen
- If possible, park your car in a locked garage.
- If you do not have a garage, choose a safe, non-secluded, well-lit place.
- Do not hide the spare key inside your car.
- Always lock your car, even if you are not going to be away for long.
- Do not forget to close the doors, windows and car boot properly.
- Set the alarm, if your car has one.
- Do not leave valuables in your car. If you cannot take them with you, lock them out of sight, e.g. in the boot or in the glove compartment.
Advice for cars equipped with a "Keyless Go" system
Keyless entry systems may be practical, but the cars can easily be opened in seconds using a relay amplifier that it is relatively easy to make. This type of theft requires two thieves: the first stands near the car key fob with a receiver-amplifier that picks up the signal and transmits it to the accomplice positioned near the car door with a transmitter. This allows the signal to be relayed over a distance of more than 100 metres, even if the key fob is in the owner's pocket. It is therefore useful to follow the following recommendations:
- Put your vehicle in a locked garage or, if you have to leave it on the street, do not park directly in front of your house.
- Set the car alarm.
- Do not keep the car key fob near your front door.
- Place your key fob in a signal-blocking Faraday protector box.
- Keep an eye out for suspicious objects left in the vicinity of the lock on your driver's door (e.g. boxes, bags, suitcases, etc.), which may contain a thief's scanner.