Vehicle Security
Keep your car safe from thieves
Vehicle theft is evolving with technology. Learn how to protect your car from modern theft methods including keyless entry attacks, OBD hacking, and catalytic converter theft.
4,978
vehicle thefts reported in 2023, up 21% on 2022
Almost 60%
of them happened between 6pm and 4am
Source: An Garda Síochána, Crimecall crime prevention message “Park Smart”, 26 February 2024. The same page is the source of the Garda advice quoted below.
How Thieves Operate
Understanding modern theft methods helps you choose the right protection.
Relay Attack (Keyless Theft)
Criminals use relay devices to amplify your key fob signal from inside your home, unlocking and starting your car without the physical key.
Targets: All keyless entry vehicles
Gardaí suggest keeping the key in a Faraday bag or box, or even a biscuit tin, away from doors and windows.
OBD Port Hacking
Thieves plug a device into your car's OBD port (under the dashboard) to program a new key.
Targets: Many modern vehicles
Ask your dealer or a mechanic about an OBD port lock.
Catalytic Converter Theft
Criminals slide under vehicles to cut out catalytic converters for the precious metals inside.
Targets: Hybrids, SUVs, vans (higher ground clearance)
Gardaí advise a catalytic converter lock. Park under streetlights, in a secure car park or where there is CCTV.
Opportunistic Theft
Unlocked doors, windows left open, or valuables on display invite thieves to try their luck.
Targets: All vehicles
Always lock up, never leave valuables visible, park in well-lit areas.
Security Solutions
The kinds of product that help protect a vehicle
Steering Wheel Locks
Locks onto the steering wheel so it cannot turn, and can be seen from outside
GPS Trackers
Show where the vehicle is, which can help if it is stolen
Faraday Pouches
Block key fob signals to prevent relay attacks
OBD Port Locks
Prevent access to the diagnostic port
Dash Cameras
Record what happens around the car
Wheel Clamps
Fit onto a wheel so the vehicle is hard to move
Smart Parking Tips
At Home
- Park in a garage if possible
- Use driveway parking posts
- Install motion-activated lights
- Consider CCTV coverage
- Store keys away from front door
In Public
- Choose well-lit, busy areas
- Park near CCTV cameras
- Avoid secluded corners
- Use staffed car parks when possible
- Reverse park for quick exit and visibility
Long-Term
- Use airport secure parking
- Ask a neighbour to check on it
- Consider a wheel clamp
- Disconnect the battery if very long term
- Inform insurance if parked elsewhere
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to protect against keyless car theft?
Gardaí say the key can be kept in a Faraday bag or box, or even a biscuit tin. These restrict the radio signal from the key, which reduces the risk of it being copied. Keep the key away from doors, windows and the letterbox too.
Are steering wheel locks still effective?
Gardaí list a steering wheel lock among the ways to protect a car: it locks onto the wheel so the wheel cannot turn. It is easy to see from outside, so use it every time, even in your own driveway.
Will my insurance cover theft if I don't have extra security?
Check your policy. Some insurers ask for particular security devices, or give a discount for them. Ask your insurer what it needs before you buy anything.
How do I protect my catalytic converter?
Gardaí advise using a catalytic converter lock. Park in a garage if you have one; otherwise park under streetlights, in a secure car park or where there is CCTV.
Should I get a GPS tracker?
Gardaí suggest installing a tracker. It does not stop a theft, but it can show where the vehicle is if it is stolen. Many trackers need a subscription, so check the running cost before you buy.
Protect Your Vehicle Today
See what to look for in each kind of vehicle security product, or work through the checklist.