Keyless entry (Keyless Entry / Keyless Go) is one of the most convenient technologies in modern cars. You no longer need to take your key out of your pocket: the car recognizes the owner on its own, unlocks the doors, and lets you start the engine with the Start/Stop button 🚗✨

However, along with this convenience came a new threat— signal hijacking via signal relay (relay attack). In this article, we'll take a closer look at, How Keyless Entry Works, what makes it vulnerable, and how to reliably protect your car from theft.

🚘 What Is Keyless Entry?

Keyless entry is a system that:

✔ Automatically opens the doors when the owner approaches
✔ Allows you to start the engine without inserting the key
✔ Locks the car when the owner is removed

This technology is used in most modern cars—from budget models to premium ones.

⚙️ How the keyless entry system works

The system works by transmitting a radio signal between the car and the key.

🔹 1. Continuous signal exchange

The car periodically sends a request.

🔹 2. Key Answer

If the key is within a radius of 1–2 meters, it sends an encrypted response.

🔹 3. Unlocking

If the code matches, the car unlocks.

🔹 4. Starting the Engine

When you press the Start button, the system checks again to see if the key is inside the vehicle.

💡 It all happens in a fraction of a second.

⚠️ What Are the Risks of Keyless Entry?

The main threat is — relay attack (signal relaying).

🕵️ How a car theft happens:

1️⃣ One attacker is standing near the owner's house with a repeater.
2️⃣ The second one is near the car.
3️⃣ The key signal is amplified and transmitted to the car.
4️⃣ The car “thinks” the key is nearby.
5️⃣ The doors open and the engine starts.

❗ The key itself may still be in the apartment.

These thefts take just 1–2 minutes.

🛡️ How to Protect a Car with Keyless Entry

Now, the most important thing is protection.

🔒 1. Use a shielding case (Faraday pouch)

This is a special case that blocks radio signals.

✔ affordable
✔ effective
✔ convenient

When the key is in a case like this, its signal cannot be read.

🏠 2. Keep the key away from the door

Don't hold onto the key:

❌ near the front door
❌ by the window
❌ in the entryway

It is best to store:
✔ in the center of the apartment
✔ in a metal box
✔ in a shielded box

📴 3. Disable the keyless entry feature

In some cars, you can:

✔ Turn off the feature in Settings
✔ Put the key into "sleep mode"

This reduces the risk of theft.

🚨 4. Set up additional protection

Recommended:

✔ Additional alarm system
✔ immobilizer
✔ GPS tracker
✔ Mechanical steering lock

Mechanical protection—still effective.

📡 5. Modern systems with a key motion sensor

Some new keys automatically turn off the signal if they haven't been moved for a few minutes.

This significantly reduces the risk of a relay attack.

🧠 Additional Safety Measures

✔ Do not leave your car with the engine running
✔ Check that the doors are closed
✔ Update your car's software
✔ Do not post photos of your keys on social media

🚗 Which cars are most often stolen using keyless entry?

Most often at risk:

• crossovers

• luxury cars

• Popular Models

But virtually any car with a keyless entry system is vulnerable.

❓ Should we be afraid of keyless entry?

No.

This technology is convenient and safe if:

✔ You follow the key storage guidelines
✔ Use protective gear
✔ Install an additional alarm system

Most car thefts occur precisely because of the owners' negligence.

📌 Bottom line

Keyless entry is a convenient and modern technology that makes driving a car more comfortable. However, it requires extra attention to safety.

To protect your car from theft:

🔐 Use a protective case
🔐 Store your key properly
🔐 Set up additional protection
🔐 Don't ignore mechanical locks

Comfort and safety can go hand in hand—if you approach the issue the right way 🚗✨