Which grades are more likely to be stolen in Alphard? Thorough explanation of the degree of danger and essential measures

As a luxury minivan representing Japan, the Toyota Alphard is extremely popular. While it attracts many people due to its luxury and comfort, it is also known as a "stolen car" that is unfortunately always at the top of the list of cases of vehicle theft.

If you are an Alphard owner or are considering purchasing one, this theft risk can be a very worrying factor. "Is my Alphard okay?" and "Which grade is particularly likely to be targeted?" There is no shortage of questions and concerns, such as "Is there an effective anti-theft measure?" In particular, on the Internet, there is information such as "XX grade is particularly dangerous" and "Higher grades are easy targets", and you may be confused about which information to believe.

In this article, we will focus on the problem of Alphard theft and consider whether certain grades are really prone to theft, trends and reasons. In addition, we will explain in a specific and easy-to-understand manner the actual situation of theft methods (CAN invaders, etc.) that have become increasingly sophisticated in recent years and the essential theft countermeasures that all Alphard owners should take, regardless of grade, with related keywords. Please read to the end to protect your precious car from sneaky thieves and live an Alphard life with peace of mind.

The Reality of Alphard Theft Are there any grades that are easy targets?

Why is Alphard one of the worst theft victims? Why?

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• Overwhelming popularity and high demand at home and abroad
• It has a high value in the used car market and is easy to target for resale purposes
• Widespread theft methods exploiting vulnerabilities in smart key systems

There are a few distinct reasons why Alphard unfortunately consistently ranks high in the number of vehicle theft cases. First of all, its "overwhelming popularity and high demand". Alphard is very popular not only in Japan but also overseas, mainly in Asia, and is recognized as a status symbol. Not only new cars, but also used cars are in extremely high demand and are traded at high prices.

This high demand is due to the fact that It means that even stolen vehicles can be easily exchanged for cash through illegal domestic and international routes. It makes them a very attractive target for thieves.

Next is the high value of the vehicle. The Alphard is a luxury minivan, and the vehicle price is also high. The more expensive items are, the greater the profit when stolen and resold, making them an efficient target for thieves. In particular, there are cases where parts are bought and sold on a per-part basis, and the price of parts alone can be high.

In addition, the sophistication of theft methods in recent years, especially the spread of "methods that exploit vulnerabilities in smart key systems," is also a major factor. If you use a trick such as a relay attack or a CAN invader, It is now possible to steal a vehicle in a relatively short period of time without physical destruction. This lowered the bar for professional thieves to steal Alphards.

These factors are intertwined in a complex way. The Alphard has been disgracefully labeled as a "stolen car". Owners should always be aware of this risk.

After all, it's popular and it's targeted ... Is it the main reason that it sells at a high price? If the weakness of the smart key is also exploited, it means that it is really dangerous if you do not take measures.

Are higher grades (e.g., Executive Lounge) particularly dangerous? Expensive value is targeted

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• The top-of-the-line grades, such as the Executive Lounge, have very high vehicle prices
• It also has a high resale value after theft, making it an attractive target for thieves
• Luxurious equipment may be of high value as a parts taker

Isn't the risk of theft particularly high among Alphards? It is rumored that it is the highest grade such as "Executive Lounge". The reason for this is, of course, the high value of the vehicle.

The Executive Lounge is the most luxurious part of the Alphard lineup, and the price of the vehicle itself is very high. The higher the price of a new car, the higher the value of the used car market, and the higher the resale price if it is stolen. It is natural for thieves to think that if they are going to spend the same amount of time and effort stealing, it is more "efficient" to aim for a higher grade that sells at a higher price.

The Executive Lounge is also equipped with a number of expensive equipment, including exclusive plush seats, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a high-performance audio system. These pieces of equipment are available in the It can have a high value not only as a vehicle, but also when it is removed and bought and sold in parts (so-called parts removal). Therefore, the higher grades can be an attractive target not only for the resale of the vehicle itself, but also for thieves for the purpose of obtaining parts.

In fact, if you look at the reports of theft damage, there is information that the damage of the higher grades is conspicuous (although it is not statistically proven). Of course Regardless of the grade, the Alphard still has a high risk of theft. Owners of the highest grades, such as the Executive Lounge, in particular, need to be more vigilant and have strict anti-theft measures.

Popular grades (Z, G, SC packages, etc.) also targeted? Is it because it is easy to exchange for cash?

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• Z grades, G grades, and old SC packages are popular grades with a large number of sales
• Due to the large amount of circulation, it is easy to blend in with the market even after theft and exchange it for cash.
• Vehicles with certain popular equipment may also be easy targets

Not only the top-of-the-line grades, but also the most popular Alphard grades in the market are said to be easy targets for theft. For example, the current (40 series) Alphard is the "Z" grade, the old model (30 series) is the "G" grade, and the SC package (S "C package", etc.), which was particularly popular. The reason why these popular grades are easy to target is thought to be their "ease of exchange".

A large number of units sold means a large amount of money in circulation in the used car market. Models and grades with a large amount of circulation are easy to blend in with many other cars of the same type after being stolen. If you disguise the license plate by fraudulent means, it will be difficult to detect that it is a stolen car. As a result, they are relatively easy to resell in both domestic and international markets, making them an "easy target" for thieves.

In addition, these popular grades include: They often come with standard equipment that many users want, as well as popular optional equipment (e.g., a specific navigation system, sunroof, etc.). This may also increase its value as a used car and make it easier to exchange for cash. Even if the absolute price is not as high as the top grade, Due to stable demand and high cashability, these popular grades can also be attractive targets for thieves.

It is important not to let your guard down and take firm measures without letting your guard down, saying, "My Alphard is a standard grade, so it's okay."

After all, it doesn't matter if it's expensive or cheap, if it's popular, it will be targeted. The top grades sell at a high price, and the popular grades are easy to sell. Just riding an Alphard means it's risky. I can only sigh ....

Is there a difference between the new 40 series and the old 30 series in terms of susceptibility to theft?

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• The new 40 series Alphard has already been reported to have been stolen
• The latest security measures are in place, but there is a possibility that it can be broken by new methods
• The old 30 series is still popular and the risk of theft continues to be high

The Alphard will be fully remodeled in 2023, and a new model (40 series) has appeared. The new Series 40 Alphard is, of course, equipped with the latest anti-theft technology. For example, the latest generation security system common to Toyota and Lexus and fingerprint authentication start switch (some grades) are adopted.

So, has the new model made it harder for them to be stolen? Unfortunately, the answer has to be no. The new 40 series Alphard has also been reported to have been stolen shortly after its release. As new security systems emerge, thieves develop new ways to break them.

Even with the latest countermeasures, the time it takes to break them may even be shorter than before. In particular, tactics such as CAN Invader exploit the basic communication system of the vehicle, which can be effective regardless of whether the model is new or old.

On the other hand, the old 30 series Alphard is still very popular in the used car market. This does not mean that the risk of theft has decreased. In fact, because it has been on the market for many years, it may continue to be an easy target for thieves because they have established methods of theft.

In conclusion, Regardless of the grade, whether the Alphard is a new model (40 series) or an old model (30 series), it is necessary to recognize that it is always exposed to a high risk of theft. It is essential not to be complacent about the old and new models, but to take the most up-to-date information and take the best anti-theft measures.

Is the theft method (CAN invader, etc.) of any grade?

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• Since the CAN invader accesses the vehicle's CAN communication, there may be little difference between grades.
• Relay attacks also exploit vulnerabilities in the smart key system itself
• It is difficult to think of a trick that is effective only for a specific grade

Are the "CAN Invaders" and "Relay Attacks" tactics that are said to be rampant in the theft of Alphard only effective for certain grades? In conclusion, these major theft tactics are likely to be effective in principle "of any grade."

A CAN invader is a method of unauthorized access to the CAN communication system that connects the electronic control unit inside the vehicle. This CAN system is based on a common foundation for all grades of Alphard. If you have access to CAN wiring, you may be able to control your vehicle in the same way regardless of the grade.

Of course, there may be minor differences due to the different types and number of ECUs (electronic control units) installed in different grades, but the fundamental vulnerabilities are considered to be common.

The same applies to relay attacks. This is a method of relaying the radio waves emitted by the smart key, and the smart key system itself is standard equipment on all grades. consequently If you do not take measures to block the radio waves of the smart key, there is a risk of becoming a victim of a relay attack, regardless of the grade.

Of course, there may be differences in the standard security features (e.g., the type of sensor for auto alarm) depending on the grade.

However, thieves are not interested in these additional functions, but rather in controlling the vehicle's core systems (engine start, door unlocking, etc.). Therefore, The idea that "my grade is standard, so it's okay" is very dangerous. If you're an Alphard owner, it's imperative that you take steps to protect yourself from the latest theft methods, regardless of the grade.

Well, CAN Invaders has nothing to do with grade. If that's the case, does it mean that you have to take the same measures no matter what grade you ride? You have to keep this in mind!

Comparison with Vellfire and other popular car models

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• Alphard's sibling Vellfire is also at high risk of theft
• Land Cruiser, Lexus LX, RX, etc. are also always at the top of the theft rankings
• Special attention should be paid to luxury SUVs and minivans, which are popular and have high overseas demand.

When talking about the risk of theft of the Alphard, it is also helpful to compare it with its sibling, the Vellfire, and other popular models. The Vellfire shares the basic structure and systems with the Alphard, and although it has a different character, it is highly popular as a luxury minivan. Therefore, Like the Alphard, the Vellfire is one of the most vulnerable targets for vehicle theft. It is also consistently at the top of the theft rankings.

Among the Toyota and Lexus brands, the Land Cruiser (including Prado) and large SUVs such as the Lexus LX and RX are also known to be severely damaged by theft. What these models have in common are the same features as the Alphard, such as "overwhelming popularity in Japan and overseas", "high resale value", and "adoption of a smart key system".

Especially Models that are in high demand abroad (for example, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Russia, etc.) It is an easy target for thieves who aim to export illegally. It has also been pointed out that the background to the high theft of Alphard and these car models may be the involvement of international criminal organizations.

On the other hand, even in the same Toyota minivans, for example, models such as the Voxy and Noah tend to not suffer as much theft as the Alphard / Vellfire (of course, you should not let your guard down). This is likely due to differences in vehicle prices, overseas demand, and resale value.

Like this Specific car groups such as Alphard, Vellfire, Runkle, and Lexus luxury SUVs It's important to understand that you're a major target for theft.

No grade required! Mandatory measures to protect the Alphard from theft

Know the limits of genuine security Immobilizers alone are not enough

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• The Alphard comes standard with a genuine immobilizer and alarm
• However, it can be broken through by relay attacks and CAN invaders
• Don't be overconfident in genuine security

The Alphard is equipped with the manufacturer's standard security system, such as an immobilizer (a mechanism that prevents the engine from starting unless it is a legitimate key) and an auto alarm (a mechanism that detects unauthorized intrusion and sounds an alarm). These have a certain effect on crime prevention, but unfortunately, it is difficult to completely prevent the latest theft methods by themselves.

Especially In the face of methods such as relay attacks that exploit smart key radio waves and CAN invaders that infiltrate the vehicle's computer system, Genuine immobilizers and alarms can be disabled. The thieves are well aware of how these genuine systems work, and they are studying how to break through them quickly and quietly. It is very dangerous to be overconfident that "Lexus and Toyota's genuine security is solid, so it's okay."

Genuine security is only a basic defense. For professional thieves, it's better to think of it as a measure that is predicated on breaking.

Of course, it's much better than doing nothing, but in order to protect a car like the Alphard, which is always targeted, it is essential to take additional measures in addition to genuine security.

First Correctly recognize the limitations of genuine security. That's the first step to getting started with effective theft protection.

I wonder if genuine security doesn't mean much anymore ... That's what I think. I'm sure the manufacturer is taking measures, but I guess it's a weasel game. After all, you have to take measures yourself.

Gain time with physical measures Effects of steering wheel locks and tire locks

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• A visual deterrent that makes thieves think it's time-consuming and troublesome
• Heavy-duty steering wheel lock physically prevents steering operation
• Tire locks prevent the vehicle from moving

Even if the electronic security system is breached, physically immobilizing the car can make the theft give up or prolong the time of the crime. The first thing that can be mentioned as an easy and effective physical measure is the "steering wheel lock".

It is a device that attaches to the steering wheel and physically prevents it from turning, and can be purchased relatively inexpensively. The point is Choose a product that is as sturdy as possible and takes time to cut and destroy. There are various types such as bar type, type that pinches spokes, and type that extends to the tire.

The biggest advantage of the steering wheel lock is that it has a high visual deterrent effect that makes thieves think that "this car is taking measures" because it can be seen at a glance that it is installed even from outside the car.

Equally visually effective is the "tire lock". It attaches it to the wheel to secure the tire, making it physically impossible to move the vehicle. This is also Since it is obvious that it is worn from the outside, it can be expected to have the effect of deterring theft.

However, both locks have the disadvantage of being time-consuming to install and unlock. It may seem troublesome to put it on and take it off every time you drive, but the hassle will help protect your car. These physical locks can also be destroyed over time.

Therefore, Steering wheel locks and tire locks are regarded as measures to "buy time". It is very important to combine it with other security measures.

Blocking the radio wave of the smart key The basics of relay attack countermeasures

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• Blocking weak radio waves emitted from the smart key
• Dedicated radio wave blocking cases and pouches are easy and effective
• Pay attention to where you store it at home (avoid at the front door or near a window)

A "relay attack" that exploits the radio waves of a smart key is one of the main methods of Alphard theft. The most basic and effective way to do this is to block the radio waves emitted by the smart key. The easiest way is to use a commercially available "radio wave blocking case" or "radio wave blocking pouch".

Simply placing the smart key in one of these cases or pouches prevents radio waves from leaking to the outside world, making relay attacks physically impossible. The price is also relatively inexpensive, It is easily available at car parts stores and online shopping. Make it a habit to keep your keys in a case when not in use, not only when you store them at home, but also when you are on the go. Do not forget about the spare key, and similar measures are required.

You should also pay attention to where you store your keys at home. On top of the shoe box at the entrance, by the window of the living room, etc. Avoid placing the key in a place where it is easy to pick up radio waves from outside the house. There is also a way to store it in a metal can that is difficult for radio waves to pass through, but there is no guarantee that it will be completely blocked, so it is better to use a special case or pouch.

Some modern smart keys have a power-saving function (sleep function). If the key does not move for a certain period of time, it is designed to stop transmitting radio waves. If this function is attached, the risk of a relay attack can be reduced, but it is still safer to use measures such as cases in combination. The radio wave management of this smart key is It's a very important anti-theft measure that you can start right away today.

The radio wave blocking case is cheap and can be done quickly, so you should definitely do it! It's like the basics of relay attack countermeasures. I've heard that metal cans are fine, but I think it's safer to use a special product.

The trump card for CAN invader countermeasures: Digital immobilizers (IGLA, etc.)

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• Intervenes in the vehicle's CAN communication and physically blocks unauthorized engine starts
• Retrofit products such as IGLA are effective
• Even if genuine security is breached, it functions as the last bastion

A more ingenious theft method "CAN Invader" that cannot be prevented by relay attack countermeasures alone. One of the most effective countermeasures against this threat today is retrofitted car security systems called "digital immobilizers".

A TYPICAL EXAMPLE OF THIS IS AUTHOR ALARM'S "IGLA". The IGLA is digitally connected to the vehicle's Controller Area Network (CAN) communication system and controls the engine start. The biggest feature is that Even if you have a genuine smart key, or even if an unauthorized signal is sent by a CAN invader, If you don't have a pre-set authentic authentication code (e.g., enter a PIN code using the vehicle's genuine button or carry a special key fob), you won't start the engine.

It physically blocks the engine from starting, so thieves can't move the car, even if they manage to get inside it.

The IGLA body is very small and is cleverly hidden in the wiring of the vehicle. It is difficult for criminals to find and difficult to release. It is a security system that can be said to be the "trump card" of CAN invader countermeasures.

In addition to IGLA, there are several other digital immobilizer products with similar functions. These products complement the genuine security system, Even if the stock system is breached, it will prevent the engine from starting as the last bastion.

However, a high level of expertise and technology is essential for installation. Be sure to consult with a reliable car security specialist and ask for reliable installation. It's expensive, but the benefits are huge.

Be prepared for the effectiveness of GPS tracking systems

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• Real-time tracking of stolen vehicle location
• It can be checked with a smartphone app, etc., leading to early detection.
• Cooperation with the police to increase the likelihood of vehicle recovery

No matter how strict the anti-theft measures are, unfortunately, the possibility of becoming a victim is not zero. Therefore, in case of emergency, we would like to introduce a "GPS tracking system (vehicle tracking system)".

This is a system that allows a small GPS device to be attached to a vehicle so that if it is stolen, the vehicle's location can be tracked. In many GPS tracking systems, Through a dedicated app on your smartphone, you can check the current location of the vehicle in real time.

If your Alphard is stolen, this system will increase the likelihood of early detection and recovery by knowing where the vehicle is moving, reporting it to the police, and coordinating with them. Depending on the product, there is also a function that sends an alert notification to the owner's smartphone when the vehicle goes outside the set area or when vibration is detected.

This makes it possible to detect the occurrence of theft as soon as possible and take immediate action. GPS terminals It is important to hide and install it in an inconspicuous place in the car so that it is difficult for the culprit to find it.

In addition, it is necessary to consider the battery life of the terminal and the method of power supply from the vehicle battery when choosing a product. GPS tracking systems do not prevent theft in the first place. however It is a powerful tool for damage recovery in the event of damage. Combining it with other anti-theft measures will give you more peace of mind.

Should I also add GPS? You don't want to think about what happens after it's stolen, but it's important to be prepared for what if. If it increases your chances of finding it, it may be worth considering.

Maintenance of the parking environment Don't let your guard down even in your home parking lot

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• Enhance the security of the parking lot itself with security cameras and sensor lights
• Improve visibility and create an environment that is difficult to penetrate
• It is also important to cooperate with local residents and share information.

In addition to measures against theft of the vehicle itself, it is very important to improve the parking environment. In particular, it is essential to take measures in home parking lots, which are considered to be the most prone to theft. First of all, it is effective to install "security cameras" and "sensor lights".

Security cameras are useful for deterring crimes and for photographing evidence in the event of an emergency. Sensor lights detect suspicious persons at night and illuminate them brightly, leading to an intimidating effect and improved visibility. These are relatively easy security equipment to install.

Second, it's important to review the physical environment of the parking lot. For instance Take care of the plants around the parking lot to improve the outlook, Measures such as installing fences and gates (if possible) to prevent easy entry into the premises are possible. If you can store it in a garage with shutters, then it can be said that it is the safest.

It is also important to raise awareness of crime prevention throughout the community. We value relationships with neighbors, share information on suspicious persons, etc. Participating in local crime prevention patrols can also help prevent indirect theft. Thieves prefer places that are poorly secured and inconspicuous. Complacency in thinking that "my house is fine" is the most dangerous.

Even in the parking lot of your home, Always be aware that you may be targeted. Taking all possible measures to create an environment where thieves are reluctant to commit crimes is essential to protecting your beloved Alphard.

Summary: In order to protect Alphard, it is essential to take complex measures regardless of grade

Thank you and advice from the operator of this site.

Hello, I'm an operator who is (intended) to take measures against theft of my car! Once again, thank you for reading to the end of our article on the "Theft of the Alphard", which is a really pressing issue for the owner!

No, it's a really unfortunate and scary reality that Alphard is a regular at the top of the worst theft ... It's a nightmare just to imagine that the longed-for Alphard, which you've worked so hard to get or are about to get, suddenly disappears in front of your eyes one day.

I really understand the feeling of being curious, "Which grade is dangerous?" If there is a grade that is even a little less risky... That's what I think. However, when I looked into it, it seems to be a sad but realistic fact that in the end, "If it is Alphard, all grades are dangerous!" In particular, if a CAN invader comes out, there is a possibility that it will be killed regardless of the grade.

So, what should I do? It's going to be at a loss, but don't give up! Fortunately, there are countermeasures.

As we've mentioned in this article, let's start with what you can do on your own. Put the smart key in the radio wave blocking case properly! When parking, also lock the steering wheel! This alone should be much less risky than not doing it.

And if you're looking for even more peace of mind, retrofit security, especially a digital immobilizer like IGLA, might be a must-have for an Alphard-class car in this day and age. It's expensive, but it's not expensive if you think of it as an investment to protect your car... Or so I think.

The most dangerous thing is the unfounded confidence that "only I am okay." In order to protect your precious Alphard, you must be vigilant and take all possible measures, and in combination with multiple measures. This is the most important.

I would be very happy if this article was an opportunity to raise your awareness of crime prevention and implement specific measures. May your precious Alphard continue to be safe!