Car Security Myths That Could Cost You in 2025

Car theft has changed so much in the past few years that many drivers still don’t realise how vulnerable they are. Criminals aren’t smashing windows and hotwiring cars like in old films. They’re using quiet, clever tech to get your vehicle off the driveway in under a minute. Yet plenty of drivers still rely on outdated ideas about car security that simply don’t match today’s risks. These car security myths can give a false sense of safety, and in 2025, that can cost you a lot more than peace of mind.

Here are the most common car security myths that could put your vehicle in danger this year, along with what actually works based on real patterns Autotrackershop sees every day while recovering stolen vehicles across the UK.

Myth 1: My Car is New, So It’s Automatically Secure.

This is one of the biggest misconceptions. Drivers assume new cars must have the best protection built in, but modern theft isn’t about breaking locks. It’s about bypassing electronics. Relay attacks, key cloning, signal amplification, CAN bus attacks, and OBD port hacks often bypass factory security altogether. In fact, brand-new models are some of the most targeted because thieves know the resale market is strong for their parts. High-value cars like Range Rover, Mercedes, BMW, Lexus, and Toyota are common targets, no matter how new they are.

The truth: Factory-fit security is never enough on its own. A proper tracking device or an aftermarket immobiliser massively reduces risk and helps recover a car quickly if the worst happens. This is one of the most overlooked car security myths people still believe.

Popular Car Security Myths in 2025 UK

If My Key Is in the House, It Can’t Be Hacked

Relay theft has become so routine that many drivers still don’t believe how it works. Criminals use relay transmitters to capture your key signal from inside your home, even if the key is behind a wall, in a drawer, or on a hook. This is one of the most dangerous car security myths because it gives drivers false confidence.

I Don’t Need a Tracker Because My Car Isn’t High-End

Criminals aren’t only after luxury models anymore. With the parts shortage and rising second-hand prices, mid-range and even older cars are being stolen for parts, fast resale, or export. Out of all car security myths, this one leads to the highest number of preventable thefts.

Factory Immobilisers Are Enough

A factory immobiliser protects against hotwiring, not digital attacks. Modern thieves rarely attempt anything physical anymore. Even if thieves bypass all electronics, the engine simply won’t start. Understanding this helps break one of the most common car security myths drivers still rely on.

Thieves Won’t Target My Driveway Because I Have CCTV

CCTV is helpful for evidence, but it doesn’t stop a thief. Most driveway thefts happen in less than 90 seconds. Thieves keep their faces covered, work quietly, and often operate in pairs. CCTV is a good extra layer, but it should never be your only line of defence. Physical and digital security devices make a real difference.

If My Car Is Stolen, Police Will Track It Down

This is, unfortunately, another common misunderstanding. Without a tracker, police often have no way to pinpoint where a stolen car has gone. Modern thefts usually involve cloned plates, quick dismantling, or immediate transport to a shipping container. Unless the vehicle has a police-approved tracking device installed, recovery rates are extremely low.

The truth: With a Thatcham-approved tracker, recovery rates are often above 90 percent. Autotrackershop sees many stolen vehicles recovered within hours because the tracker sends real-time location updates directly to the monitoring team and police. Relying on police alone is another one of the car security myths that leaves drivers exposed.

Steering Locks Look Old-Fashioned, So They Must Be Useless

While steering locks alone aren’t enough, they’re far from useless. Thieves want quick wins. Anything that slows them down increases the chance of getting caught. A visible steering lock makes your car look like hard work, so they usually move on.

The truth: Steering locks are still useful when combined with modern digital security. They act as a visual deterrent while your tracker and immobiliser provide the real protection. This highlights how car security myths often underestimate simple, effective deterrents.

Safeguard Your Business Assets and Your Peace of Mind

In 2025, the biggest risk to vehicle security is outdated assumptions. Criminals move fast, using tools designed to defeat modern electronics, and relying only on factory-fit security leaves your car exposed. The safest cars are the ones with layered protection: tracking, immobilisation, and visible deterrents working together. Autotrackershop sees the real patterns behind today’s thefts, and the message is clear: the car security myths above are costing drivers thousands each year. A small investment in proper security now can save your vehicle, your money, and a lot of stress later.

If you want help choosing the right tracker or immobiliser for your vehicle, Autotrackershop can point you in the right direction based on how thieves are operating right now.

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