Contrary to what you would expect, in a car world where electronics is increasingly important, this leaves something to be desired in terms of anti-theft systems . At least that was the conclusion that WhatCar? arrived after testing seven models and their anti-theft and keyless entry and start systems.
The models tested were the Audi TT RS Roadster, the BMW X3, the DS 3 Crossback, the Ford Fiesta, the Land Rover Discovery and Discovery Sport and also the Mercedes-Benz Class A, all of which had keyless systems.
To take this WhatCar test? he turned to two security experts, who would have to try to get into the car and start it using technological methods that would not cause damage to the models, such as a system that allows you to capture and copy the access code issued by the key. The use of a tool to open the door was also allowed.
The most disappointing in tests
Among the models put to the test, the DS 3 Crossback got the worst result, with security experts taking just 10 seconds to get in and put the French model to work, all using just a code decoder from the company. key.
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In the case of the Audi TT RS Roadster, it was also possible to open it and put it to work in just 10 seconds. However, with the keyless system disabled (or without it, as it is an option), it was not possible to open the doors or put it to work.
As for the Land Rover models, in both cases specialists resorted to a tool to open the door. In the case of Discovery, it took 20 seconds to enter but they were not able to start the engine thanks to a system that prevents the copying of the start code. Discovery Sport, which does not have this system, was stolen in just 30 seconds.
The key code coding system works in Discovery and prevents the engine from starting.
better but not foolproof
Finally, both Fiesta, Class A and X3 have a system that cuts the key signal from a certain distance between the key and the car, making it difficult for other people's friends to "work" and making experts that tested them could not open any of these three models when the keyless system was disabled.
Although the Fiesta's keyless system deactivates after some time and depending on the distance of the key from the car, it is still possible to steal the Ford model while this system is active.
However, with this asset it was possible to steal the Fiesta in just one minute (the same time achieved in the case of the X3), whereas in Class A it took just 50 seconds to get into the car and start it up.