Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm Blog

Car Remote Security Tips for Phoenix Drivers

In a city the size of Phoenix, protecting your car goes beyond locking the doors. Today’s criminals are more tech-savvy, and with modern threats like key fob cloning and relay attacks, your car remote might be more vulnerable than you think.

At Affordable Security Locksmith and Alarm – Phoenix, we help drivers protect their vehicles with smart key fob setups, anti-theft remotes, and expert programming. Explore our full range of car remote and key fob services here.

Here are our top car remote security tips for drivers throughout Maricopa County.


1. Watch Out for Key Fob Relay Attacks

Criminals can use signal boosters to capture your key fob signal—even if your fob is inside your house. Known as a relay attack, this technique lets thieves unlock and even start your car without touching the fob.

How to defend against it:

  • Store your remote in a Faraday pouch or box
  • Keep keys away from doors and windows
  • Disable passive entry if your vehicle allows it overnight

Relay attacks have been reported in areas like Biltmore, Downtown Phoenix, and Laveen.


2. Use Two Remotes—Not Just One

If your only remote is stolen, you’re stuck. Having a backup fob allows you to:

  • Disable a stolen fob immediately
  • Keep access to your vehicle during emergencies
  • Rotate remotes to reduce wear and tear

We help drivers in Glendale, Tempe, and Chandler duplicate and program backup fobs for better security.


3. Invest in a Remote with Anti-Theft Features

Not all key fobs are equal. Some offer:

  • Rolling codes that change every use
  • Panic alarms or horn triggers
  • Immobilizer sync to prevent unauthorized ignition
  • Encryption to avoid cloning

We can upgrade your fob to a higher-security model depending on your vehicle.


4. Disable or Erase Lost Remotes

If a remote is lost, don’t assume it’s harmless. If someone finds it and knows your car make/model, they could still access it.

Affordable Security offers:

  • Remote memory resets
  • Deactivation of old or stolen fobs
  • Rekeying services for door and ignition systems

Common requests come from South Mountain, Sun City, and Arcadia customers.


5. Keep Your Software Updated

Many smart key systems can receive updates via dealership service or manufacturer alerts. Updated software may:

  • Improve fob encryption
  • Close loopholes in signal protocols
  • Disable outdated security modules

We’ll help you determine if your system needs updating or reprogramming.


6. Use Steering Wheel Locks and Physical Deterrents

Even with high-tech fobs, physical deterrents still work. Devices like steering wheel locks, wheel boots, or kill switches make your car a tougher target.

Pairing these with secure fob habits adds an extra layer of defense.


7. Be Cautious with Aftermarket Fobs

Buying cheap fobs online can introduce security risks:

  • Poor-quality chips
  • Lack of encryption
  • Easy cloning with inexpensive gear

We only use certified OEM or secure aftermarket remotes. We test and verify all programming in-house.


8. Keep Your Remote in a Safe Place at Home

Many drivers leave fobs:

  • On kitchen counters
  • In coat pockets by the door
  • Near windows

This makes your signal easier to intercept. Store your fob:

  • In a Faraday box or metal container
  • Away from doors/windows
  • On a different floor if possible

9. Know When to Replace a Remote

Old, worn-out remotes are:

  • Easier to duplicate
  • More vulnerable to hacking
  • Prone to unpredictable behavior

If your buttons stick, your range is weak, or the remote is cracked—replace it. We offer same-day replacements in Roosevelt Row, Maryvale, and Tolleson.


10. Let a Pro Handle the Programming

We regularly see Phoenix drivers with:

  • Poorly cloned fobs from online sellers
  • Misprogrammed units that disable immobilizers
  • Fobs that fail during lockouts

Don’t risk it. Our team programs remotes the right way, with full signal checks and compatibility tests.


Keep Your Car Remote Secure in Phoenix

You rely on your car remote every day—don’t leave its security to chance. Let us help you upgrade, duplicate, or secure your fob system.

Call Affordable Security Locksmith and Alarm – Phoenix at (602) 854-2766
Learn more or book secure remote service today.


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For more than 25 years, Affordable Locksmith Service has established itself as the first choice of Phoenix, AZ

Our mobile locksmith service is available in the following areas:

Anthem | Apache Junction | Buckeye | Casa Grande | Carefree | Cave Creek | Chandler | Coolidge | El Mirage | Florence | Fountain Hills | Gilbert | Glendale | Gold Canyon | Goodyear | Laveen | Litchfield Park | Mesa | Paradise Valley | Peoria | Phoenix | Queen Creek | San Tan Valley | Scottsdale | Sun City | Surprise | Tempe | Tolleson