Good afternoon

Do you own a Ford fiesta or know someone who does? If so please read on.

There has been a rise in Ford Fiesta thefts across the district over the last few days, these have been stolen without the keys. The most recent thefts occurred on:

Park Avenue, Wakefield

Sides Road, Off Carleton Park Road, Pontefract

Northgate Lodge, Skinner Lane, Pontefract

Weeland Road, Sharlston Common

Some of the stolen Fiestas had a keyless entry system.

Cars with keyless entry unlock automatically when the key comes within a short-range distance of the car.

Keyless car theft, also known as ‘Relay theft’, occurs when a device is used to fool the car into thinking the key is close by; this unlocks the car and allows the ignition to be started. 

What can I do?

Keep car keys safe - Whilst at home, keep your car keys away from the car to disrupt communication range. Avoid leaving them near your door and window. Thieves only need to be within a few metres of your car key to capture the signal, even if its inside your home.

Use a signal-blocking pouch/Faraday bag - The pouch can block the transmission of the signal from the car key once inside the pouch. You could also use a metal tin as this will also block any signal. 

Turn off the fob’s wireless signal - Wireless signals on some keyless fobs can be turned off. Look in your car manual to see if this is possible, if not, contact your vehicle manufacturer. 

OBD Protector – Once inside your car, thieves can get your car going by using the OBD (Onboard Diagnostics) port. The OBD protector fits securely over the OBD port, preventing access to it.

Steering wheel lock – Guards against various theft techniques. 

Immobilisers – Drivers have to input a short code or sequence to unlock and operate the steering wheel.

As with any additional security for vehicles, try to purchase devices that are: