How Independent Garages Can Help Customers Protect Their Cars from Modern Theft Methods

Vehicle theft has changed. For many modern cars, stealing a vehicle no longer means breaking a window, forcing an ignition barrel or even physically taking the owner's key. Relay attacks, key cloning and attacks on vehicle electronics have created new ways for criminals to get a car moving without the obvious signs associated with traditional theft.

For independent garages, that creates an opportunity to give customers useful advice about vehicle security alongside the servicing, repair and diagnostic work they already trust you to carry out.

Why factory security isn't always enough

Modern vehicles already have sophisticated factory immobilisers, alarms and keyless security systems. The problem is that some modern theft methods are designed to make the vehicle believe the legitimate key or authorisation is present.

A relay attack, for example, can extend the signal from a key inside a house towards the vehicle. Other attacks may involve cloned keys or electronic access to the vehicle's systems.

That is why aftermarket security is increasingly about adding another independent layer, rather than simply relying on the protection supplied with the vehicle.

Adding a second layer of security

An aftermarket immobiliser can add an additional authorisation step before the vehicle can be driven away.

One example is the LockCar CAN-IMMO, a hidden CAN bus immobiliser designed to prevent the vehicle from starting until the driver has provided the required authorisation.

LockCar CAN-IMMO is available from £299 supplied and fitted, with no ongoing subscription, giving customers an additional layer of vehicle security without a recurring monthly charge.

Rather than adding an obvious keypad or switch to the interior, CAN-IMMO can use the vehicle's existing controls and supporting authorisation options. This means the security system can remain discreet while adding another barrier between the vehicle and an unauthorised driver.

Security without making the car inconvenient

One of the challenges with any security system is making sure the owner actually wants to use it every day.

A system that is frustrating, slow or complicated can eventually be disabled or ignored. Modern aftermarket systems therefore need to combine security with normal day-to-day usability.

LockCar CAN-IMMO offers several ways to authorise the vehicle, including the PIN-to-start function and compatible proximity options. Features such as valet or service modes can also make it easier for the vehicle to be handed to a garage without the customer having to permanently disclose their normal security method.

LockCar provides more detailed information on setup and operation in its CAN-IMMO complete guide and user manual.

Designed for modern vehicles

Modern cars increasingly depend on interconnected electronic systems, so aftermarket equipment needs to be selected and installed with the vehicle itself in mind.

LockCar says CAN-IMMO supports CAN bus, LIN bus and ADC bus applications and is configured for the vehicle during installation. The system is hidden from view and is designed to work without adding a visible keypad or warning LED inside the vehicle.

Customers should always check compatibility for their particular make, model and year before installation.

When should a garage mention vehicle security?

Vehicle security does not need to become part of every service conversation, but there are situations where it can be genuinely useful to raise the subject.

• A customer owns a vehicle commonly targeted for keyless or electronic theft.
• The vehicle is regularly parked outside overnight.
• The customer has recently experienced an attempted theft.
• Similar vehicles have recently been stolen in the customer's area.
• The customer has bought a used vehicle and is unsure how many keys may still exist.
• The customer specifically asks whether additional security is available.

The aim should be to give the customer useful information rather than turn a normal workshop visit into a security sales pitch.

Immobiliser, tracker or physical security?

Different security products solve different problems.

An immobiliser is principally intended to prevent an unauthorised person from driving the vehicle away. A tracker is primarily intended to help locate a vehicle if it is moved or stolen. Physical products such as steering locks provide an additional visible barrier and can also act as a deterrent.

For some vehicles, using more than one type of protection can make sense. The appropriate choice depends on the vehicle, where it is kept, how it is used and the owner's own requirements.

LockCar's wider range of vehicle immobilisers can be viewed here: LockCar immobilisers.

Another way for independent garages to add value

Independent garages are often in a particularly good position to discuss vehicle security because they already know the customer's vehicle and have an established relationship with its owner.

That does not mean every garage needs to become a vehicle-security installer. A workshop can simply point a customer towards a specialist when additional protection would be worthwhile.

For garages that want to add vehicle-security installation as a service, LockCar also operates a professional installer network. Garages and technicians with relevant auto-electrical or vehicle-security experience can apply to join the network and undertake LockCar's training and approval process.

Approved installers receive training on CAN-IMMO installation, technical support and access to LockCar's installer resources, giving independent workshops another potential specialist service to offer alongside diagnostics, repairs, servicing and vehicle upgrades.

Garages interested in becoming an approved installer can find out more through LockCar's professional installer network.

About LockCar

LockCar develops vehicle security products including immobilisers, trackers and connected security systems for cars and other vehicles.

Its CAN-IMMO system is designed as a discreet additional layer of protection for modern vehicles, with professional installation available and a range of configuration and authorisation options.

About MechanicX

MechanicX is garage management software built for independent garages and automotive businesses. It brings workshop bookings, job cards, customers, vehicles, estimates and invoicing together in one system, helping workshops manage both routine work and additional specialist services more efficiently.