Car Insurance Companies taking shortcuts on car remote jamming

Motorists are urged to physically check that their motor vehicles are properly locked when they leave their vehicle, even if they use a remote, following a spate of reported break-ins with no visible forcible entry.

Some third party remote controls, apparently set to the same frequency as some manufacturers' remotes, reportedly interfere with a vehicle's remote control if both are used simultaneously, and prevent the electronic central locking system from operating successfully.

'Thieves' allegedly watch someone arrive and, once that person is out of the vehicle, press their remote and hold it down. When the owner attempts to "lock" the vehicle, the signal is jammed and the vehicle remains unlocked, with the owner none the wiser. While there is still no absolute clarity on the truth behind some of these claims, consumers should take extra caution when exiting their vehicle as theft with no sign of forcible entry is often repudiated by insurers.

Whether a car insurance company will payout on such a claim is highly uncertain and would, of course, vary greatly between insurers and policies. However, for a car insurance claim to be successful, the insurer would probably request some form of proof from the client, which is particularly tricky unless you not only happen to park in view of a security camera, but are also able to obtain the footage which supports your version of events.

There are examples of insurers obtaining CCTV footage after receiving such a claim and seeing someone open a car and steal the contents. Nevertheless, all consumers should double check that their vehicle has been properly locked before walking away.

Best practice would be not to leave anything of value in the vehicle; however, if it is necessary to do so, then it is important to ensure that nothing is visible; for example, in the case of SUVs and station wagons, there is usually a cover that can be pulled over the boot area to hide any items left in the car. It may also be advisable, though more costly, when your client is purchasing a new car, to suggest extra security features such as smash and grab film on the windows.

Many of us press the remote as we walk away from our vehicle assuming that it will lock the car, without checking. But, by being extra cautious, we can hopefully avoid the need to claim - whether through forgetfulness or as the result of a scam.