Success can be a double-edged sword, as is exemplified by the Ford Fiesta – not only is it one of the best-selling cars in the UK, but a recent survey has shown it is also the most stolen, and that’s why we’re looking at ways to beef up your car security and keep your Ford Fiesta secure.
As technology has advanced, car security has become much more sophisticated with the introduction of immobilisers, tracking devices and keyless entry. Unfortunately, the criminals aren’t daft and have been adapting their skills to accommodate the new methods. Rather than a screwdriver and a jemmy, your average thief’s tool kit will probably be more likely to consist of a laptop, tablet, and a cloning device. One of the easiest ways of stealing a car is to intercept and copy the signals from the keyless entry fob, known as a relay attack. The majority of people leave their car keys on the nearest flat surface as they enter the house near the door. The key will continue to transmit its signal, so while remaining outside, the thief can intercept the signal and relay it to open and steal your car. In 2019, Ford launched an aftermarket key fob upgrade that makes its keyless entry models far less vulnerable to theft via relay attack.
How to keep your Ford Fiesta secure at a glance:
Editor’s choice: Ironstripe Faraday Box – Buy now from Amazon UK
Best steering wheel lock to keep your Ford Fiesta secure: Disclok Steering Wheel Full Cover – Buy now from Amazon UK
Best OBD port protector to keep your Ford Fiesta secure: Bi Automotive OBD Cover – Buy now from Amazon UK
The Fiesta has been the biggest-selling car in the UK for more than a decade, meaning there are millions of them on the road today, and despite production stopping in the middle of 2023, their huge presence will remain for many years to come. Popularity has undoubtedly contributed to its current status, so let’s look at some ways to improve your car security and keep your Ford Fiesta safe.
How to keep your Ford Fiesta secure
Editor's choice
The Ironstripe Faraday box is a smooth, good-looking box that won’t look out of place on the hallway table, the kitchen counter, or the bedroom drawers. It’s a decent size, so it will hold multiple key fobs along with your smartphone and credit cards.
The interior is fitted with a double layer of shielding material, and it comes with a handy Faraday pouch for use when you are away from home. It’s also available in a smaller size for just a couple of key fobs.
Pros
- Larger size for multiple fobs
- Comes with pouch
Cons
- The catch can be tough
Best steering wheel lock to keep your Ford Fiesta secure
It features a bright colour and tough materials, and it completely prevents any kind of steering control. It's incredibly difficult to remove, even with industrial cutting equipment, and the locking barrel itself has been built to be drill and pick-proof.
The Disklok has been awarded the 'Secured by Design' accreditation by the official UK police initiative and the 'Sold Secure' Automotive Gold Rating certification. It comes in three sizes to suit different kinds of vehicles and is a great, highly visible way of keeping your Fiesta secure.
Pros
- Highly visible
- Tough, difficult to defeat materials
Cons
- Difficult to store
Best visual deterrent to keep your Ford Fiesta secure
This Stoplock wheel lock works largely as a visual deterrent but also makes use of hardened internals and an anti-drill lock to stop any removal attempt and slow down any potential theft. And remember, you can't hack a Stoplock with a laptop.
Pros
- Visual deterrent
- Easy to fit
Cons
- Clumsy to store
Best OBD port protector to keep your Ford Fiesta secure
This OBD protector fits securely over the OBD port, preventing access to it. The solid metal cap is plugged into the OBD socket and secured with two security screws, which can be easily removed using the security tool when you need access to the port.
Pros
- Quick and easy
- Non-intrusive
Cons
- Remember not to lose the security removal tool
Best dummy OBD port to keep your Ford Fiesta secure
Pros
- No information transferred
- Only you will know where the live OBD connector is
Cons
- Requires a bit of work to install
Best tracking system to keep your Ford Fiesta secure
The great thing about Thatcham systems is that they're insurance-approved. And if you're lucky, you could get up to 20% off your next renewal once you have either the S7 or S5 series fitted.
Pros
- Price includes professional fitting
- UK insurance approved
Cons
- Subscription required
Best magnetic tracker to keep your Ford Fiesta secure
The battery can last up to 90 days on a single charge, and the unit is easily trackable via the GPSLive app. There's no subscription, but to get all the perks, there is a pay-as-you-go fee, which works out at around £40 for six months.
Pros
- Easy to install
- App is easy to use
Cons
- Pay-as-you-go fee required
Parkers top tips for keeping your Ford Fiesta secure:
Dissuading a thief from stealing your Fiesta involves making it as challenging as possible for them to succeed. These bits of advice might sound like the same old tips over and over again, but their validity in helping prevent theft remains.
Security Signage:
Place signs or stickers showing that your Fiesta is equipped with a security system. This can act as a deterrent by making potential thieves aware that your car is not going to be an easy target.
Well-Lit Parking:
Park your Fiesta in well-lit, busy areas or make sure your driveway is well-lit. Thieves are less likely to attempt theft in areas with good visibility, as they prefer darkness and seclusion.
Garage Parking:
If possible, park in a locked garage. This adds an additional layer of security and makes it harder for thieves to access your car.
Use Steering Wheel Locks:
Steering wheel locks are highly visible and physically obstructive. Thieves may be deterred by the extra effort required to remove them.
Window Etching and Marking:
Etch your vehicle identification number (VIN) onto windows and use other marking methods. This not only makes your car less attractive to thieves but also aids in recovery if stolen.
GPS Tracking:
Install a GPS tracking device in your Fiesta. This can help the police locate and recover your vehicle more quickly if it’s stolen.
Key Management:
Be careful with your keys. Avoid leaving them in obvious or easily accessible places. Place them in a Faraday box whilst at home to prevent the RFID signal from being intercepted. Use a Faraday pouch to store your fob about your person when you are out and about.
Join Vehicle Watch Programs:
Participate in local vehicle watch programmes or neighbourhood watch groups. Being part of a community which is aware of and is tackling crime can enhance overall security.
Remember that no security measure is foolproof, but combining those listed above can significantly reduce theft risk and make your Fiesta less appealing to potential thieves. Additionally, make sure you stay up to date with local crime trends and take the appropriate precautions.
Alex Boyd is a Commercial Content Writer at Bauer Media writing for Parker’s and CAR, and loves travel, gardening, DIY and music.
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