turning off keyless start on volvo xc90

psd99 · 3 Nov 2017 at 10:07

hi guys

bit of a random post but I've seen how easy it is for thieves to steal these new cars
they can do it in 2 minutes by using a device to scan data from a key fob and then re-transmit this data.

just wondering if there is a way to turn off the keyless entry and keyless start on the volvo xc90? or any tips on preventing thieves from getting their hands on this car?

Howard · 3 Nov 2017 at 10:22

I highly doubt that you feasibly can. The car's systems and entry/start procedures will be designed around its presence.

It's easy for a thief to steal any car. If they really want it, and they can't get in to it there and then, they'll just come back with a low loader.

If you're worried about where it is parked, get a steering wheel lock, or look into some sort of OBD port isolator.

Daaaavvveee · 3 Nov 2017 at 10:35

Its insured, I would rather them steal it without me knowing, than trying to get into my property and potentially harming anyone in the family

paradigm · 3 Nov 2017 at 10:42

If you turned off the keyless start, how would you start it?

Every keyless go car I've been in doesn't even have anywhere for an ignition key to go.

tiffanys · 3 Nov 2017 at 10:48

paradigm said:
If you turned off the keyless start, how would you start it?

Every keyless go car I've been in doesn't even have anywhere for an ignition key to go.

by jump start

rodenal · 3 Nov 2017 at 11:22

tiffanys said:
by jump start

That makes no sense - with keyless there is no way to put the ignition on without having the remote, so you can't jump or bump start it

joey1211 · 3 Nov 2017 at 11:24

I don't think he was being serious

Diddums · 3 Nov 2017 at 12:19

rodenal said:
That makes no sense - with keyless there is no way to put the ignition on without having the remote, so you can't jump or bump start it

I'll give you £50 if you can bump start an XC90 on your own

psd99 · 3 Nov 2017 at 14:02

have you not all heard about how easy it is to break into a keyless entry car?

http://www.express.co.uk/life-style/cars/859355/car-stolen-theft-UK-crime-rising-technology-hacker

this technology is a massive fail, perhaps a good wheel lock, bollards and a ford fiesta parked in front is the only hope!

Howard · 3 Nov 2017 at 14:11

If you don't trust keyless entry why did you buy a car with it fitted?

psd99 · 3 Nov 2017 at 14:20

Howard said:
If you don't trust keyless entry why did you buy a car with it fitted?

I didn't its for a friend

just wondering what the options are for security
perhaps I will get them to ask volvo about this!

paradigm · 3 Nov 2017 at 14:22

If he's paranoid enough to want to spend money on anything beyond GAP insurance, he could look at Autowatch Ghost.

Dangerous Dave · 3 Nov 2017 at 14:31

Easiest solution is a faraday bag for the key which blocks the signal, I would expect putting the key in a closed metal tin at the front door would have the same effect.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Keyless-Entry-Signal-Blocker-Faraday/dp/B071ZGGRD1

grudas · 3 Nov 2017 at 14:47

if they can't get it that way then they'll come inside with a crowbar

Jono · 3 Nov 2017 at 14:56

Why don't they have a kinda random number generator like you get with some online banking things?

AHarvey · 3 Nov 2017 at 15:01

Just spend a few quid buying a keyless car key blocking case from ebay

Dangerous Dave · 3 Nov 2017 at 15:18

grudas said:
if they can't get it that way then they'll come inside with a crowbar

Possibly but the gangs with a crowbar are generally coming in for the keys either way.

Mercedes allow you to disable the key from transmitting by pushing the lock button twice and reverts to the normal unlock button on the remote to unlock the car on next use. I am surprised other manufactures haven't started offering this when you see how easy it is to use a radio receiver/transmitter to gain access to the car.

jonessa · 3 Nov 2017 at 15:36

There's a service being offered now where you can have a "passcode" build into the startup sequence.

The driver has to enter a combination of inputs from the dashboard before the car will start. Can't remember what it's called?

You could also buy a OBD socket lock?

kaiowas · 3 Nov 2017 at 16:03

paradigm said:
If you turned off the keyless start, how would you start it?

Every keyless go car I've been in doesn't even have anywhere for an ignition key to go.

Not sure about the newer models but my XC70 has a slot in the dash I can put the fob and it'll allow the car to start even if the battery in the fob is flat.

Clarkey · 3 Nov 2017 at 16:12

kaiowas said:
Not sure about the newer models but my XC70 has a slot in the dash I can put the fob and it'll allow the car to start even if the battery in the fob is flat.

My Toyota had that, they removed the slot from the later models though, who knows why. Personally I found the keyless system to be just about the best thing since sliced bread and would not concern myself with nonsense like high tech thieves.