As you may already know, car theft is still rampant. To try and stop this, some automakers such as Dodge, Tesla and Peugeot are incorporating a new technology that allows you to have greater control of your car and prevent thieves from doing their thing. Among cars that thieves love to steal, the Dodge Charger and Dodge Challenger are at the top of the list. Some believe it is because they are so easy to steal. There aren't many theft deterrents to smooth that trend - until now.

New strategy by Stellantis

Stellantis is adding new software that at first glance seems like a really strange way to stop thefts. It has added a new safety feature that limits Dodge vehicles to using just three horsepower in the event of a theft. That sounds really weird at first. But the three-horsepower limit is the result of not providing adequate information before starting the car. The Challenger and Charger will require two-factor authentication before starting the engine.

The driver will need to enter a four-digit code before unlocking what is needed to drive the car. Without that code, you can't get much more than engine idle. It is technology very similar to how a Tesla is started. It has also been used in Peugeot and Citroen vehicles, which are not part of the Stellantis group.

Three hp equals about 675 rpm. This should add another layer of security to beat car relay key thefts, which are why thieves choose Dodge cars in the first place. The good news is that it is also available for free on Challengers and Chargers from 2015 and later.

Key thefts occur due to the keyless entry feature

Key relay thefts occur due to the keyless entry feature. The thieves use a simple device to transmit the unique signature of the key that unlocks the car's functions. Keys don't have to be very close for thieves to do this. Allows both unlocking and starting the car. There is no forced entry that takes time and increases exposure.

Why did Dodge use this method to stop the thefts?

The answer is simple, because it was easy to take advantage of the existing valet mode that was already in the cars. It takes the valet mode that only allows a couple hundred horsepower and reduces it to just idle. It can even help stop thieves as they try to increase speed to get away. Especially when thieves are hoping for a quick getaway in a Hellcat Charger or Challenger. Get more info here.