This paper applies a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN)-based vehicle security enhancement model, with a specific focus on the South African context. While conventional security systems, including immobilizers, alarms, steering locks, and GPS trackers, provide a baseline level of protection, they are increasingly being circumvented by technologically adept adversaries. These limitations have spurred the development of advanced security solutions leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), with a particular emphasis on computer vision and deep learning techniques. This paper presents a CNN-based Vehicle Security Enhancement Model (CNN-based VSEM) that integrates facial recognition with GSM and GPS technologies to provide a robust, real-time security solution in South Africa. This study contributes a novel integration of CNN-based authentication with GSM and GPS tracking in the South African context, validated on a functional prototype.The prototype, developed on a Raspberry Pi 4 platform, was validated through practical demonstrations and user evaluations. The system achieved an average recognition accuracy of 85.9%, with some identities reaching 100% classification accuracy. While misclassifications led to an estimated False Acceptance Rate (FAR) of ~5% and False Rejection Rate (FRR) of ~12%, the model consistently enabled secure authentication. Preliminary latency tests indicated a decision time of approximately 1.8 s from image capture to ignition authorization. These results, together with positive user feedback, confirm the model’s feasibility and reliability. This integrated approach presents a promising advancement in intelligent vehicle security for regions with high rates of vehicle theft. Future enhancements will explore the incorporation of 3D sensing, infrared imaging, and facial recognition capable of handling variations in facial appearance. Additionally, the model is designed to detect authorized users, identify suspicious behaviour in the vicinity of the vehicle, and provide an added layer of protection against unauthorized access.