How do you stop the most stolen car from getting stolen!

[walshie]

As the owner of a 66 plate Audi S3 I recently read that its the most stolen car in the UK, which is not great news! I know the car comes with a factory fitted alarm and immobiliser, but one of the methods used to steal the car is to smash the window then reprogram a new key via the com port, which then bypasses the alarm/immobiliser.
Im not keen on just fitting a tracker as that doesnt stop the car being stolen, it just helps you recover it (if you're lucky) after some thieving scumbag has thrashed it to death.

Has anyone looked at fitting a hidden kill switch to either the battery or fuel pump? Is this a feasible job for an auto electrician?

As the car has been bought on a PCP i dont want to modify the car too much as it will need to be put back to factory spec when returned.

[walshie]

Yes, car key burglaries are quite common in North Wales where there has been a spate of high value fast Audi's being stolen. My only reservation against the steering lock is that they can be removed given time, and it becomes a hassle putting it on every time you leave the car. I would prefer a hidden kill switch as unless the thief finds the switch the car doesnt move.

[walshie]

Thanks for the feedback guys. I'm liking the look of the CANbus immobiliser system and have fired them an e mail asking for a cost to install.
I did think a battery master switch would cause a problem with opening the car and it would be difficult to hide.

Edited by walshie on Sunday 12th February 20:51

[walshie]

Contrary to popular belief, burglars do not want to break into your house and confront you to get your car keys. This is a very high risk thing to do for the burglar as they have little idea what they are likely to face. Also they may be apprehended, or leave dna following a fight with the home owner. The result for them is a charge of aggravated burglary and a likely custodial sentence. I am just as concerned getting the car nicked whilst it is parked up away from home, for example when out shopping or at a cinema when they can see you leave the car and know you are not likely to be back for a known period of time.

[walshie]

You're right, it is a risk, but double glazing, a dog and an alarm all further reduce the risk. Unfortunately the thief is likely to go on to steal someone else's car, but there's only so much you can do.

[walshie]

Evanivitch you are right, I have known some very nasty jobs where victims have had boiling water poured over them during a burglary in an attempt to identify where a safe is located, but they thankfully are very rare. What is far more prevalent is cars being nicked from public places such as shopping centre car parks where the thief can sit up and watch cars coming in and select their target. Then its just a matter of waiting for the owner to leave the car, smash the window and reprogram a new key off the com port and off goes your motor. As others have said, if a thief is skilled enough and determined enough, chances are they will get your car.