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Experts’ advice to stop keyless theft

SECURITY specialist Thatcham Research has released guidelines to prevent theft of cars with keyless entry systems, after shocking CCTV footage captured thieves stealing a Mercedes from its owner’s driveway.

Contact your dealer first, it says, ensuring your car is running the most up-to-date software. You may be able to turn off your keyless fob at night, too.

Thatcham recommends keeping the fob away from windows and doors, and investing in physical security – like the Stoplock Pro (above, £49.99 from Halfords), Best Buy in our last test.

Ford owners get easy Hertz van hire

FORD owners can now benefit from the brand’s partnership with rental firm Hertz. They can hire a van instantly via the Fordpass app, and pay hourly.

The Hertz 24/7 vans are located in car parks at superstores nationwide, making them ideal for moving bulky purchases. Van rental prices start at £13 an hour, and the app is free to Ford owners from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. For more details, log on to www.fordpass.co.uk.

Historic cars gear up for Monte rally

PREPARATIONS are under way for the annual historic rally run from Paisley to Monte Carlo. With 25 cars from the Historique class setting off for the south of France on 31 January, it’s the largest the event has been.

The class is limited to models which competed in the Monte Carlo Rallies between 1955 and 1980, and runs over eight days on public roads, across 14 stages in the mountains of southern France. Find out more information at www.monte.scot. Know an event coming soon? Contact products@autoexpress.co.uk