Auto thefts are on the rise across Canada with large trucks and SUVs being a primary target according to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, and Ontario has been hit the hardest nationally.
Cold weather and the myth of letting your vehicle warm
When the temperature dips, you may be inclined to let your vehicle idle before starting your commute. There’s actually no need todo so–many experts agree that modern vehicle engines don’t require a ‘warming period’. In fact, leaving your car idling for more than 30 seconds may actually be damaging to your vehicle! Once you’ve started your vehicle, the time it takes to clear snow off is more than sufficient. Driving your vehicle at a light pace for a few minutes will actually do a better job of warming the engine and fluids than simply letting it idle.
Modern tech has lead to modern methods of theft
Wireless key entry technology has afforded vehicle owners convenience but it has come at a cost. By using a transmitter to amplify the low-power signal from the key fob inside your home, thieves are able to unlock and steal your vehicle from outside your front door. The vehicle is then able to operate until it either runs out of gas or it has been shut down.
An example of how the relay system works (Toronto Police Services)
The easiest and simplest way to prevent the signal from being intercepted is to keep your key fob in your bedroom or the upper level of your home. Another solution is to purchase a Faraday bag or box, an inexpensive RF signal-blocking container that will protect any transmissions from your vehicle’s key fob.
Additional tips for preventing auto theft:
- If you have a garage, use it for your vehicle and keep the vehicle out of view from would-be thieves. A well-lit area is also helpful, especially if it’s within view of a security camera.
- Use an OBD port lock. An OBD port lock plugs into the diagnostics connector of your vehicle and allows you to monitor its status through a smartphone app. An OBD port lock will notify you of changes to the vehicle such as movement, the engine starting, disturbances to the vehicle’s body and erratic driving that might indicate theft.
- Keep a steering wheel lock engaged when the vehicle is parked. It’s a low-tech solution that has been around for decades and for good reason–it works.
