Why is a Tesla Almost Impossible to Steal?

Why is a Tesla Almost Impossible to Steal?

Car theft is a major concern for drivers everywhere. According to The Globe and Mail, a car is stolen every six minutes in Canada today. While standard security systems in most cars can provide some protection, Tesla vehicles have taken a more innovative approach, with a range of technologies to make them difficult to break into for would-be thieves. 

Recent data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) also reveals a surprising trend: EVs are significantly less likely to be stolen compared to gasoline-powered cars. According to the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI), Tesla’s Model S and X from 2016-2018 were among the least stolen vehicles, second only to the BMW 3 series. While some might attribute this to Tesla vehicles typically being parked in garages for charging, that explanation falls short when considering the lack of other EVs on the “least stolen” list. 

Thieves are having a hard time getting their hands on Tesla vehicles. Tesla has implemented a multi-layered security approach that makes stealing one of their cars a risky and ultimately unrewarding activity. Let’s take a closer look at the key features that set Tesla vehicles apart in terms of theft prevention.

Why is a Tesla Almost Impossible to Steal

Why is a Tesla Almost Impossible to Steal?

Sentry Mode

Imagine a security system that’s constantly attentive, even when your car is parked.  That’s Sentry Mode in action. This intelligent system utilizes the car’s network of cameras and sensors to detect suspicious activity around your Tesla. 

When activated, it transforms the car into a vigilant guardian. The side cameras, front camera, and sensors remain active even when parked and turned off. Suppose someone gets too close to the vehicle. In that case, Sentry Mode springs into action, recording the activity and displaying a clear message on the car’s touchscreen: “Recording in Progress” and sending you a notification directly to your phone.  

The car activates its alarm and turns on its headlights, providing a visual and audible deterrent. With Sentry Mode turned on, attempted break-ins become much less subtle. This is enough to put off the majority of potential thieves. The possibility of being caught on camera, red-handed, is a significant deterrent.

GPS Tracking

Since the early days of Tesla, GPS tracking has been a key component of their security system. Let’s imagine the unthinkable happens, someone manages to steal your Key Card and drives off with your Tesla. Owners can use the tracking from the Tesla mobile app to see their vehicle’s location in real-time. 

So simply open the Tesla app and take a look, you can see exactly where your car is at any given time. This has proven invaluable in theft recovery situations, with numerous instances of stolen Teslas being tracked down and retrieved by authorities as a result.

However, there is one limitation. To conserve battery life, location updates are only performed while the vehicle is being driven. A smart burglar could potentially remove the car’s SIM card, disabling tracking completely.

Pin to Drive

Let’s imagine a scenario where a determined thief manages to bypass the previous security measures. They break in, hotwire the car and somehow disable the GPS tracking. Even then, they’ll have to overcome one more challenge: Pin to Drive.

This security feature demands the user to input a PIN before driving the Tesla. To further prevent thieves, the PIN pad location shifts on the touchscreen with each startup, making it impossible to guess based on fingerprint smudges. The only way to bypass Pin to Drive is by entering the owner’s Tesla account credentials. Fortunately, most car thieves lack the sophisticated hacking skills required to access a Tesla account. PIN to Drive adds an extra layer of security that most cars simply lack.

Cryptography Key Fobs

Unlike standard remote keyless entry systems, Tesla vehicles employ key fobs with enhanced cryptography. These incorporate unique identities and complicated protocols to validate ownership and permit operation. 

All connection and data transfer between Tesla vehicles and Tesla servers is secure against unauthorized access and alteration. This adds an additional degree of security, making it much more difficult for thieves to bypass.

Tesla Mobile App 

Tesla owners can use a mobile app to monitor and manage their vehicles remotely. This app uses secure connection methods and authentication to protect the privacy and security of user data and vehicle information.

Additional Security Tips for Tesla Owners

While the features above form a strong foundation for Tesla’s security, there’s more to the story. Here are some additional steps you can take to further enhance your car’s security:

Disable Passive Entry: This feature allows the car to unlock when the key is detected nearby. While convenient, it can be exploited by thieves with relay attacks. Disabling it when parked in unfamiliar areas adds an extra layer of security.

Over-the-Air Updates: Tesla vehicles benefit from regular software updates that can be delivered directly over the air. This allows Tesla to constantly improve and refine the security systems in their cars,  proactively addressing any vulnerabilities that might be discovered.

Cellular Connectivity:  All Teslas come equipped with cellular connectivity as standard. This enables features like Live Location and Sentry Mode to function seamlessly, providing constant vigilance and remote access.

Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: While Tesla’s security features are impressive, they shouldn’t replace common-sense practices. Park in well-lit areas whenever possible, and avoid keeping valuables visible inside the vehicle.

Owning a Tesla goes beyond just driving an electric car. The built-in security features provide a significant advantage over traditional vehicles, offering an exceptional level of protection against theft. 

Tesla’s impressive theft deterrence record is a result of a well-designed security system that combines advanced technology with features that empower car owners to participate in their vehicle’s protection. By understanding these features and implementing best practices, Tesla owners can ensure their cars remain safe and secure.

Read More:

The Most Popular EVs In Canada for 2024

EV Charging Security: Is Your Electric Vehicle Charger Safe?

The 11 Best Car Apps and Tools For Car Buyers in Canada

Buy or Sell A Used Electric Vehicle in Ontario: Here Is What You Need To Know

As always, Carnex can provide you with detailed information about buying and selling used electric vehicles in Ontario.

Carnex is the top online EV expert in Canada for buying and selling used electric vehicles in Ontario.

Checking out the best selling electric vehicles from Carnex inventory today!

Learn more about the benefits of buying from Carnex. We believe that all clients deserve to know the good and bad of what they’re buying. Because we wanted to know these when we bought cars. That’s why at Carnex.ca, we will proudly display every detail every step of the way. Browse all the best cars, automobile buying tips, auto insurance, young drivers, driving techniques, auto industry trends from Carnex Blog.