The ADAC has carried out a comprehensive test with vehicles that have a particularly practical function. It’s about keyless systems, with which you can unlock and start the car without a key. Even 10 years ago, car manufacturers did poorly and not much has changed to this day. But there is a new technology that should solve the problems forever.

ADAC: Only 24 out of 500 cars with a keyless system are safe

Almost every modern car now has a keyless system. You no longer have to pick up the key and unlock the car with a remote control or put the key in the ignition, you can simply get in the car and drive off. Ever since I’ve had this system in my car, I don’t want to be without it. I’ve always been aware that this technology isn’t entirely safe, and now the ADAC has confirmed that. You have tested a total of 500 vehicles with keyless systems and only 24 were safe from thieves (Source: ADAC).

The ADAC was able to do this in 95 percent of the vehicles tested Pick up the signal with a special device and start the car and drive off. The radio keys send a signal that can be easily accepted and extended. The thieves don’t even have to steal the key, but can try to grab it from the outside. The ADAC explains the problem in the video:

ADAC: There are also secure systems

Maybe some of you already have something of the UWB technology heard. Newer high-end smartphones such as the Galaxy S22 Ultra have these built in and will soon be able to be used as car keys. A few manufacturers are already using this new technology in their keyless systems. This allows the car to recognize how far away the key really is and cannot simply be picked up at a greater distance. According to the ADAC, this is the safest method currently available.

Some manufacturers rely on a motion detector in the key. If the key does not move for a while, the system switches off automatically and cannot be tapped. But until the shutdown actually happens, the system is still vulnerable and the signal can be intercepted. This keyless system is more secure than all normal wireless keys, but not secure enough. UWB must become the standard, as the ADAC is clear.