Someone keeps breaking into neighbors 2012 CRV

[Matt]

My neighbour has a 2012 Honda CRV, and someone keeps on breaking into it every week, and rifling through all his stuff. But the strange thing is, there’s no sign of forced entry. Not even a scratch anywhere. He locks the car with the remote every time he parks it, and the alarm never seems to be tripped when the break ins occur.

I guess what I’m curious is, if anyone here knows of an “exploit” or something that someone is using to break into his car. Apologies if this sounds like a strange question, but he sees me working on my cars all the time so I guess he figured I’d be someone to ask. But I’m stumped!

Topic

[Charles]

If a hacker that is in range with the proper technology can clone the remote codes. Or, there are other hacks that can allow a criminal to access the car without mechanically breaking in. Even the ON-STAR system is subject to being hacked.

[Paul]

They caught some unsophisticated people stealing cars in my neck of the woods using a sophisticated device. It’s one possible explanation.

Forced entry marks may be subtle. Compare the level and alignment of the front and rear doors. Also, feel around the door frame for small bends and dents.

Honda’s alarm has manual and automatic arming modes. So, you’re neighbor may not be arming the alarm correctly. The process should be described in the manual.

[Mike]

For many years, pre-cut keys can be ordered from the dealer parts department with the VIN number. They are “supposed to” verify that walk-in customers are the actual owner of the VIN by demanding a title and ID, but nothing stops them from just ordering and selling the thing to whoever they want. It doesn’t have to be programmed to get into the car. Putting a key in the door lock and turning it in the unlock direction a couple times will disable the alarm even if the key’s immobilizer chip has not been programmed to the car, as only the ignition cylinder picks up on that.

[Author]

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