Do the "electronic" car keys in BMWs and Mercedes sold today really make the cars safer from car thieves?

Question

A friend told me this and that it's harder to steal a car with this kind of key (compared to the flat keys from the 1970s and 1980s), but I still think it's better to spend the 30 seconds to put a "club" on the steering wheel. Your thoughts?

Answer 1

Most new cars on the market are equipped with engine imobilizers that prevent the motor from running without a key.  There is a chip in the key that sends a signal to a receptor which allows the motor to start.  It is still possible to steal the car, but you have to have special tools, and really know what you are doing.  Also- overriding an imobilizer is not a fast process.

Answer 2

Yes it is alot safer, without the key the car will not start and if you were able to somehow get it started it will just shut down.

As for thieves, if they want something bad enough they will take it and not even the club will help.