Sophisticated car security systems lare ocking drivers out of their cars when they lose their keys, sometimes for up to three days, new research suggests.

Because hi-tech vehicle security systems are so safe, drivers who have lost their keys or experience immobiliser problems can only watch as their vehicles are towed away to be fixed at a garage.

A survey of 400 AA members who had experienced a key or immobiliser breakdown found 88% of drivers had to have their cars towed away. Only 1% could be fixed at the roadside. On average, drivers were left stranded without their cars for between two and three days.

The report found that 83% of drivers supported the AA having access to sensitive security related information in order to help drivers fix their cars.

There was also a strong indication of the need for security among fleet drivers with 62% saying they would look more closely at security measures for their next car and 59% of drivers saying that despite the problems, security systems were worth the hassle. (December 20, 2001)