Enhanced security measures implemented against Range Rover thefts

author: FutureCar Staff    

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has announced that it has invested over £10 million in developing and implementing security upgrades to reduce the risk of Range Rovers being stolen. The company is targeting the growing problem of key cloning and keyless car theft, as well as criminals who specifically target their high-value vehicles for parts or resale overseas. Recent data from the DVLA revealed that the Range Rover was the second most stolen car of 2022, with a 47% increase in thefts compared to the previous year, totaling 5,533 stolen vehicles.

JLR has stated that its vehicles manufactured from 2022 onwards are equipped with their most advanced electrical architecture, which includes the latest security features. As a result, only 0.07% of new Range Rovers and new Range Rover Sports on the road since January 2022 have been stolen, and only 0.3% of new Defenders have been affected since 2020.

The carmaker has been facing challenges in delivering a true ultra-luxury experience to Range Rover customers, as it has been grappling with the issue of theft by organized criminal gangs. Additionally, recent incidents have left customers' cars awaiting repair due to a serious parts distribution crisis. JLR is actively working to resolve these issues.

Furthermore, JLR's latest security and technology can also be retrofitted to previous generation vehicles, including those that are no longer under warranty. This ensures that older models receive the same level of protection as the current models.

JLR has already updated over 65,000 eligible vehicles from 2018 models onwards with security upgrades through their dealer network. The company has been directly contacting customers and is now urging owners of Defender, Discovery, Range Rover, and Jaguar cars built since 2018 to take advantage of these free security updates.

Police forces are advising owners of Land Rovers and Range Rovers to enhance their vehicle's security by fitting mechanical devices such as pedal locks, wheel clamps, and steering wheel locks, in order to deter thieves.

PC Peter Fraser from Staffordshire Police emphasized that vehicle thieves are primarily targeting high-value cars with electronic keys. He urged all vehicle owners, particularly Land Rover and Range Rover owners, to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of falling victim to theft.

JLR strongly recommends that owners utilize all available security measures to protect their vehicles, including the Jaguar and Land Rover 'Remote' apps. These connected services provide clients with access to various security features such as vehicle lock reminders and 'Guardian Mode', which monitors the vehicle and sends an alert in case of unauthorized interaction.

Patrick McGillycuddy, Managing Director of JLR UK, expressed the company's understanding of the negative impact that vehicle theft can have on the ownership experience for their clients. He emphasized JLR's commitment to tackling this issue and stated that their investment of over £10 million demonstrates their dedication to the cause. McGillycuddy assured that JLR will continue to work closely with law enforcement and key partners to develop and implement effective anti-theft measures, making it a personal priority.

JLR has provided the following security steps for clients:

FutureCar Staff