How to not get your Lexus stolen?

Protecting your Lexus starts with a layered approach: activate factory anti-theft tech, use physical deterrents, park in secure areas, and maintain good daily habits to deter theft.

Today’s Lexus models come with built-in security features such as engine immobilizers and optional remote services. This guide outlines practical steps—spanning technology, physical devices, and everyday behavior—that can reduce the chance of a theft and improve recovery if the worst happens.

Rely on Lexus built-in security features

The following built-in features form the first line of defense. Use them to maximize protection without extra devices.

• Engine immobilizer: A standard system that prevents the engine from starting without the correct key, making hot-wiring ineffective.


• Safety Connect or equivalent remote services: Some Lexus models offer remote locking, vehicle locate, and SOS assistance. Availability and exact features depend on model year and region, and may require an active subscription.


• Smart key and proximity features: While convenient, be mindful of relay theft risk. Keep keys away from entry points and consider a Faraday pouch or shielded storage when not in use.


• Regular software updates: Ensure the vehicle’s security firmware and infotainment software are up to date through a dealer or official app, which can patch vulnerabilities.

Taken together, these features provide a strong deterrent and a quicker response if something seems off with the vehicle.

How to optimize these features

Activate remote locking, enable vehicle location alerts where available, and enroll in any applicable safety services through the official Lexus app. If you’re unsure what’s available for your model, check your owner’s manual or contact your dealer.

Even with factory protections, no system is foolproof. Layering additional measures can further reduce risk.

Physical deterrents you can add

Visible and tangible deterrents can deter opportunistic theft and buy more time for responders if tampering is suspected.

• Steering wheel lock or wheel clamps: Classic, widely available devices that physically impede theft attempts.


• Kill switches or battery disconnects (professional installation advised): These interrupt power to essential systems, increasing the effort required to steal the car.


• Visible alarms and window decals: Signs can deter criminals who rely on quick, quiet thefts.


• Aftermarket GPS tracker (hidden): Extra recovery aid that can operate independently of factory systems; verify legality and choose reputable brands.


• Parking aids: Use well-lit, camera-monitored areas and consider a garage when possible to reduce opportunities for stealth thefts.

Physical deterrents work best when used with the vehicle’s built-in protections and smart parking habits.

Smart parking and daily habits

Your routine and where you park can significantly influence theft risk. Adopt these habits to lower your exposure.

• Park in a secure, well-lit area or a locked garage whenever possible.


• Keep the key fob out of reach inside the car; do not leave it in the glove box or center console if you’re not nearby.


• Don’t leave valuables in plain sight; use storage compartments or take items with you.


• Disable passive entry features if you’re concerned about relay theft in certain situations, or use a Faraday pouch for the key fob when unattended for extended periods.


• Regularly inspect doors, windows, and alarms to ensure the system is functioning correctly.

Combining smart parking with disciplined key management creates a grander layer of protection that complements security tech.

What to do if your Lexus is stolen

Even with precautions, theft can occur. If it does, act quickly to maximize chances of recovery and inform the right parties.

1. Call local police immediately and provide the vehicle’s exact make, model, color, license plate, and VIN.


2. Contact your insurer and report the theft, sharing any police report number and relevant details.


3. If you have Safety Connect or Enform, use the app or your dealer to initiate vehicle tracking, remote lock, or other available options, if permitted by your subscription and region.


4. Do not attempt to pursue or confront suspects; let law enforcement handle the investigation.


5. Provide any additional information to the authorities and insurer as requested, including recent location data or last known movements.

Prompt reporting helps authorities coordinate recovery efforts and can support claims processing.

Summary

Protecting a Lexus is most effective when you use a layered approach that combines built-in security features, physical deterrents, prudent parking choices, and good daily habits. Stay informed about your specific model’s capabilities, keep software up to date, and pair technology with sensible routines. If theft occurs, contact police and your insurer promptly and leverage available remote services to aid recovery. A proactive, multi-layered plan is the best defense against theft.

Can a Lexus be tracked if stolen?

Once a police report is filed, the Safety Connect Response Center can work with police to help track and recover your stolen vehicle using Safety Connect's3 embedded cellular and GPS technology. This may help to recover your vehicle more quickly, minimizing the amount of damage incurred.

Are Lexus targeted for theft?

Brand has five of the top eight cars most likely to be stolen. Five Lexus models were among the top 10 cars most likely to be stolen in 2024, according to government data – and the Range Rover, previously a high-profile target for car thieves, is now among the most protected.

Which Lexus is stolen the most?

Lexus RX Series
It holds across the section: Lexus RX Series, down year-over-year from 3,037 stolen to 1,124; Honda CR-V dipping from 2,988 stolen units in 2023 to 1,911 in 2024. That Highlander fell from top spot to eighth, with a sharp drop from 3,414 swiped in 2023 to 1,141 in 2024.

How to protect your Lexus from theft?

To prevent your Lexus from being stolen, always lock your car and park in well-lit areas or a garage. Supplement this with physical deterrents like a steering wheel lock, install an electronic immobilizer or a kill switch, and protect your key fob with a Faraday pouch. Additionally, consider adding a GPS tracking system for recovery and securing the vehicle's OBD port to prevent reprogramming. 
At-home and basic prevention

• Always lock your doors and close windows: This is the most basic and often overlooked step. 
• Park in a secure location: Use a locked garage whenever possible. When parking outside, choose well-lit areas that are often monitored by CCTV. 
• Keep keys secure: Don't leave your keys near your front door, and consider disabling the key fob's keyless entry when not in use to prevent signal boosting. 

Anti-theft devices and systems 

• Install a steering wheel or brake lock: These are highly visible physical deterrents. 
• Use an immobilizer or kill switch: A hidden kill switch for the fuel pump or ignition can prevent the car from starting even if a thief gets in. Some systems require a special code to drive. 
• Add a GPS tracker: If the car is stolen, a tracker like Tracker Monitor can help police locate it. Some systems offer 24/7 control center support. 
• Protect the OBD port: Thieves can use the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) port to reprogram a new key. Use a physical lock on the port or install a third-party security system that requires a code to access it. 
• Disable keyless entry in settings: If your car has this feature, you can turn it off in the vehicle's settings to prevent "relay attacks". 

This video demonstrates how to disable keyless entry for some Lexus models: 59sDr SaahbYouTube · Apr 4, 2025
Other measures

• Hide valuables: Do not leave any valuables, like bags or electronics, in plain sight, as this can attract thieves. 
• Consider vehicle-specific protection: Lexus has offered free protective plates for certain models to block access to headlights, which are sometimes targeted in theft attempts. Check with your local dealer to see if your vehicle is eligible. 

This video explains how to protect your Lexus from specific theft methods and discusses features like protective plates: 58sAll Things F - by ScottHDYouTube · Oct 22, 2025