New study says keyless systems are not secure

When keyless systems first burst onto the scene there was an initial concern over vehicle security with questions relating to the key’s operable range.

Now keyless systems aren’t just the preserve of premium cars and are still among the best convenience systems you can wish to have, particularly for women who no longer need to fish around the depths of their handbags.

Recent tests conducted in the UK have exposed these systems’ vulnerabilities and that a simple electronic device can bypass the central locking.  Rather than interfering with the signal like in remote jamming, thieves use a ‘home built’ device to extend the range of these keyless devices. An accomplice then waits by the target’s car and uses the signal to gain access and start the engine.

All very well but what do they do once the original keys are no longer emitting a signal or out of range?

German vehicle experts (ADAC) tested 24 cars from 19 manufacturers and found them all to have the same problem. In a statement ADAC concluded, “Owners of cars with keyless locking systems should exercise increased vigilance in the storage of the key.” The organisation added: “It’s the duty of all car manufacturers to get rid of this problem. It makes no sense that this more expensive locking system is way easier to break into than the normal one.”