New technologies have always come with their own challenges. While keyless entry is proving extremely beneficial for an ever-growing number of Mercedes owners, there are still certain security issues that sometimes need to be overcome or protected against – despite the vast improvement in safety offered by the fact that, for these advanced vehicles, there are no keys to steal or locks to force.
So how do thieves currently circumvent keyless security, and what can you do to stop this and keep your Mercedes security tip top?
The Threat
Whenever an unprecedented system is invented in order to make our property more secure, a means of illegally hacking that system follows shortly after to enable criminals to bypass it. Keyless entry systems can be manipulated by thieves who invest in a transmitter and amplifier system. If a vehicle’s key is within range, whether it is inside a property or not, an amplifier will often be able to easily detect and amplify that key’s signal to a nearby transmitter, which will then be used to direct that signal towards the car. The car will then respond to the signal by opening and allowing the criminals access.
It can be concerningly easy for those with the right equipment to break into a keyless entry car, but it’s only possible if you fail to follow certain simple precautions.
How Do I Prevent Keyless Theft?
Owners of the Mercedes-Benz W211 E Class, W205, W209 CLK, W215 CL, W216, W220 S Class, W222, W246 and R230 SL with keyless entry should all ensure that they put into practise the following safety measures to prevent unlawful keyless entry.
1. Keep your key as far away from your car as possible
The obvious first step to prevent the key’s signal from being intercepted is to keep it well out of reach of any devices. If you have a set place for your key, it will also help you to remember where you put it, of course!
2. Disable keyless entry
The keyless go systems that come with the Mercedes models mentioned above can be disabled simply by pressing the lock button twice. This stops the key from broadcasting altogether. However, remember that you’ll need to use your key the next time you want to key into your vehicle.
3. Keep your key in a security pouch
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Signal blocking pouches, pockets, wallets and Faraday bags are available from numerous outlets that stock vehicle accessories. The lining of these receptacles are metallic, and they are tried and tested to stifle any kind of signal that may be sent from your keyless fob. This method allows you to enjoy the full benefits of keyless entry without having to disable your key.
4. Secondary security methods
Once you’ve got the most secure setup possible for your key, it may help your peace of mind to add a few things to your car too, on the very slim off-chance that a thief still manages to gain entry. Wheel clamps, steering wheel locks and security cameras and hardware in your driveway or garage will not only heavily hinder a criminal trying to make their escape in your car, they’re very likely to dissuade them from even trying in the first place!
Adding a tracking device as a very last resort can also work wonders, as it will make the likelihood of your car being recovered far higher if a thief does in fact manage to get through all of your security.
Remember, the possibility of someone attempting to steal your car and succeeding despite all of these safety methods is exceptionally slim, so don’t take the risk – protect your Mercedes from keyless theft today.