Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has introduced enhanced security measures to protect its older vehicles from theft. As part of this initiative, the company is offering upgraded smart key fob batteries and signal-blocking Faraday pouches to eligible owners. These steps aim to combat relay theft—a method used by criminals to hijack key signals and gain unauthorized access to vehicles.
Upgraded Security Features for Older JLR Models
JLR is providing free ‘sleeping’ smart key fob batteries equipped with motion sensors. These batteries automatically enter sleep mode after three minutes of inactivity, reducing the risk of relay theft. Available on a first-come, first-served basis, they serve as an added layer of protection for owners of older Land Rover and Range Rover models.
Additionally, JLR is distributing Faraday pouches to ensure key fobs remain secure overnight. These signal-blocking pouches act as an interim solution while the company prepares a forthcoming software update designed to prevent body control module (BCM) hacking—a method criminals use to override a vehicle’s security system.
Comprehensive Software Updates for Enhanced Protection
To bring older models in line with the latest security standards, JLR engineers are developing advanced software solutions. This update, expected to roll out later this year, will improve BCM protection, making these vehicles significantly harder to steal.
JLR has already invested £15 million in security upgrades for over 216,000 out-of-warranty vehicles—a move unprecedented in the automotive industry. By revisiting models dating back to 2016, the company is demonstrating its commitment to tackling vehicle theft.
Collaboration with Law Enforcement and Additional Security Investments
Beyond in-car security enhancements, JLR is actively working with law enforcement agencies to curb automotive crime. The company has pledged an additional £1 million to support police investigations and implement strategic theft prevention measures. This initiative includes allocating resources to high-theft areas and forming dedicated intelligence teams.
Debunking Myths: Theft Rates and JLR Vehicles
Contrary to common belief, JLR asserts that its vehicles are not the most stolen cars in the UK. According to company data, theft is more prevalent among models produced between 2016 and 2019. However, newer vehicles exhibit significantly lower theft rates. For example, since its launch, only 0.08% of the latest-generation Range Rovers sold in the UK have been stolen—a mere 11 vehicles. Similarly, just 0.1% of Range Rover Sports (15 vehicles) and 0.3% of Land Rover Defenders (134 vehicles) have been reported stolen.
Innovative Security Technology to Combat Theft
Ultra-Wide Band (UWB) Radar Technology
Since 2018, JLR has integrated Ultra-Wide Band (UWB) radar technology into its keyless entry systems. This advancement ensures that only keys within close proximity to the vehicle can unlock its doors, effectively neutralizing relay theft attempts.
Chief Electrical Engineer Stewart Moore confirms that UWB technology has been highly successful, with no reported cases of criminals bypassing the system.
Body Control Module (BCM) Protection
As relay theft has declined, criminals have shifted to BCM hacking—a technique involving unauthorized key programming through a vehicle’s diagnostic port. To counter this, JLR has introduced a critical software update that requires owner authorization before new keys can be programmed.
Vehicle owners can authorize key programming either through a dedicated control app or by using an existing, valid key inside the vehicle. This innovation has played a pivotal role in reducing theft rates for newer models.
Additional Security Enhancements
JLR has also upgraded its vehicle locking systems to prevent unauthorized access in vulnerable situations, such as parking lots and fuel stations.
- Single Lock Mode: Activates the perimeter alarm and intrusion sensors.
- Double Lock Mode: Prevents doors from being unlocked from the inside, even if a window is broken.
- Walk-Away Locking: Automatically secures the vehicle when the key moves beyond a 2.5-meter radius.
- Guardian Mode: Notifies owners via a mobile app if their car is tampered with while parked.
Security Upgrades for Older Vehicles
Owners of pre-2018 models are receiving tailored security solutions. Vehicles lacking UWB technology are being equipped with Tracker Retrieve—a GPS tracking system available via a five-year subscription. Additionally, JLR is collaborating with insurers to recommend the most effective aftermarket immobilizers for enhanced protection.
Future Security Initiatives
Looking ahead, JLR is advocating for legislative changes to classify unauthorized key programming devices as illegal theft tools. The proposed amendments, included in the Criminal Justice Bill, are advancing through the UK Parliament and nearing approval in the House of Lords.
JLR continues to strengthen port security measures and refine theft prevention strategies in collaboration with law enforcement agencies. By analyzing theft patterns and vulnerabilities, the company is ensuring that its vehicles remain as secure as possible.
Conclusion
Jaguar Land Rover’s proactive approach to vehicle security underscores its commitment to owner safety. Through cutting-edge technology, software updates, and collaboration with law enforcement, JLR is setting new industry standards for theft prevention. These efforts not only safeguard vehicles but also help owners maintain competitive insurance rates.
