Tracking Systems and Theft Rings: How Exotic Cars Are Targeted

 Posted on August 29, 2025 in Exotic Car Maintenance

High-end, high-performance exotic cars, including Porsches, Ferraris, and Lamborghinis, are more than just vehicles; they are highly coveted status symbols worth hundreds of thousands, or even millions of dollars. Unfortunately, that high worth makes them prime targets for sophisticated theft rings. Many exotic car owners, assuming alarms and insurance are enough, do not realize how sophisticated thieves have become.

Advanced technology is now used to locate, hack, and move exotic vehicles, often before the owners even know they are gone. Perhaps you have waited many years and saved your money for the exotic car of your dreams. The last thing you want is for a ring of high-end car thieves to target your car.

After all, you take exemplary care of your vehicle through the services of a Forest Hill, MD exotic vehicle technician from Rosso Service. Your car has benefited from our highly trained technicians, who possess the skills and experience necessary to ensure your exotic vehicle is kept in tip-top shape. We maintain and service exotic cars, allowing our customers to enjoy them for many years.

Regardless of which brand of exotic car is on your wish list, it is always a good idea to have a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection from a Baltimore, MD exotic vehicle technician from Rosso Service. Our highly trained technicians have the skills and experience necessary to ensure your pre-owned exotic vehicle runs as it should.  

Why Do Car Thieves Target Exotic Vehicles?

Exotic vehicles have a high resale value; the parts alone can often be worth even more than the vehicle as a whole. For high-end car thieves, there is also a "prestige" factor associated with stealing a high-end exotic luxury car. Many stolen exotic vehicles are sold on the black market or shipped overseas, which helps thieves evade capture. Once an exotic vehicle has been exported, tracking it becomes much more difficult.

What Are the Modern Methods Used to Steal Exotic Vehicles?

High-tech theft methods used to steal exotic vehicles often rely on technology to bypass advanced security systems. However, in some cases, the theft of an exotic car can be as simple as paying off a dishonest valet, mechanic, or transporter. Some of the methods used to steal exotic vehicles include:

OBD Port Hacking

A thief can sometimes access the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD2) port, located inside the car. A special device is then plugged into the port, which overrides the car’s computer system, allowing the thief to disable the alarm system and program a new key in a matter of seconds.  

Signal Jamming

Most high-end exotic cars have built-in tracking systems, but thieves have learned to use sophisticated signal jammers. These signal jammers block the GPS and cell signals, preventing the vehicle from being tracked.

Key Fob Relay Attacks

Key fob relay attacks use a pair of devices to amplify the key fob’s radio signal. One of the devices is held near the car owner’s home to detect the signal, which is then relayed to an accomplice near the vehicle, tricking the car into thinking the key is nearby, unlocking the doors, and allowing the engine to start.  

Keeping Your Exotic Car Safe

GPS tracking units can be installed in your exotic car that will transmit real-time location, while geofencing alerts can notify owners if their exotic vehicle leaves a specific area. Some trackers allow remote disabling, effectively immobilizing the vehicle. A GPS tracker works best when used in conjunction with alarms, cameras, and secure storage.

Contact a Washington, D.C. Exotic Car Maintenance and Repair Expert

The last thing you want is to have your exotic car stolen. A Baltimore, MD exotic car maintenance and repair expert from Rosso Service can give you more tips on keeping your car safe. In addition to state-of-the-art facilities, transportation services, and tours of our facilities, we also have specially trained, factory-certified technicians for Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati. Call 410-638-2886 to schedule your appointment.