Ravelco - The Competition - Key Code Systems

Factory-installed key code systems are now standard on almost all new General Motors, Ford, Chrysler and Toyota vehicles, but this easily-overpowered technology often gives vehicle owners a false sense of security.

A key code system has a miniature transponder embedded in the ignition key head. The computer transmits a radio signal to the key, which then returns an ID number. If the on-board computer recognizes that ID, it enables the ignition and starting system.

Most people feel this is a foolproof system as the key must match the computer.

Less sophisticated thieves us a process called 'computer swapping.' They go to junkyards and buy a computer with the matching key (or 'borrow' them from a friend with the same car). Then they break into the car, pop open the hood, unplug the car's computer, plug their computer in and they have the key to start your car!

Some systems can be overcome by cutting one easily-accessible wire and using a voltmeter to determine which wires to reconnect. This takes approximately 20 seconds.

Researchers Crack Car Key Code

The Associated Press - 9:21 a.m. ET Jan. 31, 2005 - Researchers said they have found a way to crack the code used in millions of car keys, a development they said could allow thieves to bypass the security systems on newer car models. The research team at Johns Hopkins University said Saturday it discovered that the "immobilizer" security system developed by Texas Instruments could be cracked using a "relatively inexpensive electronic device" that acquires information hidden in the microchips that make the system work.

The radio-frequency security system being used in more than 150 million new Chevrolet, Fords, Chrysler, Toyotas and Nissans involves a transponder chip embedded in the key and a reader inside the car. If the reader does not recognize the transponder, the car will not start, even if the key inserted in the ignition is the correct one. It's similar to the new gasoline purchase system in which a reader inside the gas pump is able to recognize a small key-chain tag when the tag is waved in front of it. The transaction is then charged to the tag owner's credit card. Researchers said they were able to crack that code, too.
Because the Ravelco Anti-Theft device relies on a physical connection rather than a transmitted signal, there is simply no way for a thief to electronically bypass the system. With the Ravelco Anti-Theft Device, a thief can not start your car, even if they had the right ignition key.