Warning of Rising OBD Car Thefts

Electronic Devices Enable Car Thefts via OBD Ports

The Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) is cautioning Victorians about a growing trend in car thefts involving the use of on-board diagnostics (OBD) ports.

Increasingly, thieves are employing electronic devices to infiltrate vehicles through their OBD ports, facilitating the starting and stealing of cars without the owner’s key. Data shows that in 2024, 20 per cent of car thefts were executed using this technique.

Jeff Ames, RACV general manager of motoring products, explained how modern vehicles are being targeted. “By connecting unauthorised devices to a vehicle’s OBD port, a thief can communicate directly with the car’s engine control unit, enabling them to program a new key or even start the engine without the original key,” Ames said.

The RACV is also warning of ‘relay theft’, a method where thieves use a device to amplify a signal from a car key, tricking the car into unlocking and even starting. “As vehicle technology advances, so do the tactics of criminals, so it’s crucial for motorists to be aware of these strategies and take appropriate steps to safeguard their vehicles.”

The RACV suggests installing OBD port locks to deter push-start car theft. These locks work by physically securing the OBD port, preventing unauthorised access. “An OBD lock is a simple, yet effective tool that can significantly reduce the risk of theft by blocking access to the port,” Ames added.

OBD port locks are generally easy to install and are inexpensive and widely available from auto shops and vehicle anti-theft websites.

In addition to installing OBD port locks, the RACV also recommends the following precautions: securing your keys in a safe place, away from doors and windows, to prevent relay attacks; installing physical deterrents like steering wheel locks or wheel clamps as visible deterrents to potential thieves; and regularly updating your vehicle’s software with a registered mechanic and staying aware of any manufacturer recalls or security updates.

“By staying vigilant and implementing these security measures, vehicle owners can significantly reduce the risk of theft,” Ames concluded.

For more information on car theft prevention, visit the RACV website.