Can a car with a FOB be stolen?

[HarperAnn]

Yes, a car with a key fob is absolutely at risk of being stolen, but the method depends entirely on the type of fob. Cars with traditional key fobs, where you must push a button to unlock, are generally immune to the most common modern hacking technique known as a relay attack. The primary theft vulnerability is for vehicles equipped with a keyless passive entry and start system, often marketed as "Keyless Go" or "Smart Key."

The Core Vulnerability: Relay Attacks A relay attack exploits the constant, low-power signal emitted by a passive keyless entry fob. Thieves use two relay devices. One is placed near your home door or pocket, amplifying the fob's signal. The other, near your car, receives that amplified signal, tricking the vehicle into thinking the key is present. This allows doors to be unlocked and the engine to be started. According to UK Office for National Statistics data, vehicle-related thefts increased alongside the adoption of keyless technology, with a significant portion attributed to relay attacks.

Traditional Key Fobs: A Different Risk Profile If your fob requires you to press a button to unlock, it does not continuously transmit a signal. Therefore, it cannot be captured via a relay attack. However, these vehicles are not theft-proof. They can be targeted through older methods like breaking a window, programming a blank key via the OBD-II port (often requiring physical access to the car), or through signal jamming during lock confirmation.

Data on Theft Trends and Countermeasures Industry analysis from sources like Thatcham Research indicates that while relay attacks are a prevalent threat for keyless systems, manufacturers are responding with improved security. The table below outlines the primary risks and mitigation strategies for both systems.

Theft Method	Risk to Keyless Entry Car	Risk to Traditional Fob Car	Effective Countermeasure
Relay Attack	Very High	Negligible	Use a Faraday pouch (signal-blocking bag) to store fobs.
OBD-II Port Programming	Moderate	Moderate	Install a secondary OBD port lock or immobilizer.
Physical Break-in	High	High	Always park in well-lit, secure areas.
Signal Jamming	Low	Moderate	Manually check doors are locked after pressing the fob.

To protect your vehicle, the single most effective step for keyless entry owners is storing your fobs in a certified Faraday pouch or box at home. Additional measures include turning off the keyless entry feature in your car's settings if available, using a physical steering wheel lock as a visible deterrent, and ensuring your car's software is updated at dealership visits, as manufacturers occasionally release security patches. For all cars, basic security practices like locking doors and not leaving valuables in sight remain fundamentally important.

[SanGabriela]

As someone who had their keyless car stolen from a driveway, I can confirm it happens quickly and silently. My fob was hanging by the front door, and thieves amplified its signal. Now, I keep both fobs in a Faraday pouch I bought online. It’s a simple fabric bag that blocks all signals. I also use a sturdy old-fashioned steering lock every night. It’s a visual red flag for thieves that makes them move on to an easier target. For peace of mind, these physical barriers are essential.

[DiVincent]

Let’s break down the tech simply. Your standard clicker fob? It’s like a walkie-talkie that only talks when you press the button. The “keyless” fob is more like a broadcaster constantly whispering “I’m here.” Relay theft is just eavesdropping on that whisper and repeating it to your car. The fix is to mute the broadcaster when you don’t need it. A Faraday pouch is a cage that blocks radio waves. Think of it as putting your fob in a tiny, lined bunker. No signal gets in or out. It’s the most straightforward tech solution to a high-tech problem.

[IsabelAnn]

I work in auto insurance, and we see the claims data daily. The shift towards keyless entry systems has directly influenced theft patterns. Models known for this feature often appear on higher-risk lists, impacting premiums. Our advice is always layered security. A Faraday pouch addresses the specific relay attack vulnerability. Pair that with a secondary immobilizer, which creates an additional electronic circuit thieves must bypass. This “double lock” approach significantly raises the effort level, and most thieves will simply move on. Always check with your insurer, as approved security devices can sometimes lead to lower premiums.

[EmersonMarie]

My family has two cars—one with a basic push-button fob and one with keyless entry. The security routine for each is completely different. For the keyless car, our nightly ritual involves placing the fobs into a locked metal box (which acts as a Faraday cage) in our hallway, far from the driveway. We also disabled the automatic unlocking feature so the car doesn’t respond unless the door handle is touched with the fob nearby. For the older car with the standard fob, our focus is on physical security: a steering lock and ensuring the OBD-II port is inaccessible. Understanding your specific technology is the first step. You can’t defend against a threat you don’t understand. For keyless systems, the threat is remote and digital; your defense must proactively block that signal. It’s not paranoia, it’s a necessary adaptation to modern vehicle technology.