Does your prestige car insurance cover you for keyless car theft?
CLA (Risk Solutions) Ltd
Keyless car theft in the UK is on the rise.
The latest remote keyless car entry systems enable drivers to unlock car doors and start the engine “hands free” when they are near the car.
It is not just prestige cars that use this method of entry; many new small saloon and SUVs incorporate this technology alongside other clever features such as a kick boot.
The increase in thefts of vehicles fitted with these systems is because criminals can use devices that boost the signal from a key lying inside the house to trick the vehicle into thinking the key is nearby, allowing them to enter and start the car.
The German testing body ADAC has found that 99% of the 237 cars it tested were vulnerable to theft using this keyless system.
Some insurers are refusing to pay out if thieves use these devices to break into your car.
This is because most car insurance policies will not cover claims if keys are left in or around the car.
If there is no sign of forced entry, you may find your claim is rejected.
Check that you are fully covered for this type of theft with your insurer.
What you can do to minimise keyless car theft
Some manufacturers have implemented ways of preventing this type of theft by supplying keys that turn themselves off when not being used either automatically or by the user pressing or holding down a button on the key fob.
A shielding pouch can also be used to store the keys when not in use which blocks signals from the boosting devices used by thieves.
Practical advice is to store keys well away from doors and windows near the car and as far away from house entry points as possible.
Fitting a steering wheel lock is another method of deterring this type of theft.
Looking into the future, manufacturers are working on replacing keys with a smartphone app.
This will register users to a central database and enable owners to use their phones to unlock and start their cars.
Other advantages of using the app will be the ability to share cars with family members using their own smartphones.
It may also be possible to control the cars speed and even volume of music even when you are not driving the car yourself.
With more technology being built into new models, especially prestige and luxury cars, it is more important than ever to make sure your insurance provider is keeping up with the new technology to keep you fully insured.
High net worth insurance
Online comparison sites and standard insurance policies do not always provide the level of insurance cover needed for some expensive modern cars.
Often packed with a high level of technical specification and high value components, you may find your prestige car needs a higher level of insurance cover.
It is not just about replacement or repair costs; you may have a preferred garage for repairs and need the use of a replacement car of equal value when you have to make a claim.
A high net worth insurance policy can provide a range of benefits including cover for your home, leisure craft and travel insurance all under one policy tailored to your individual needs.
To make sure all your possessions are fully covered, talk to your local insurance broker in Sutton Coldfield, CLA Risk Solutions on 0121 321 4600.