Car theft is a common concern for many vehicle owners, especially those with models that are frequently targeted by thieves. In recent years, Hyundai and Kia vehicles have been particularly vulnerable to theft due to the lack of engine immobilizers in certain car models. However, new research from the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) has shown that anti-theft software upgrades provided for these vehicles have significantly reduced theft rates.
The theft rates of Hyundai and Kia vehicles began to soar after thieves discovered that certain models did not have engine immobilizers, making them easy targets for theft. Thieves utilized a technique that was popularized on social media platforms like TikTok to steal these vehicles, leading to a surge in theft claims. In response to this trend, the software upgrade was introduced in February 2023 to address the issue.
The new software upgrade ensures that the vehicle will only start if the owner’s key or an identical duplicate is in the ignition. Additionally, vehicles with the software upgrade receive a window sticker aimed at deterring potential thieves. As of December 2023, approximately two dozen 2011-2022 Hyundai and Kia models are eligible for the software upgrade, with 30% of eligible Hyundais and 28% of eligible Kias in HLDI’s database having received the upgrade.
According to HLDI’s research, vehicles that received the software upgrade experienced a 53% reduction in theft claim frequencies compared to those that did not receive the upgrade. The study also found that the frequency of whole vehicle theft decreased by 64% for vehicles with the upgrade. Despite these positive results, HLDI noted that the frequency of theft claims for Hyundai and Kia vehicles remains high, even for models with the new software.
The organization suggested that one reason for this could be that the software-based immobilizer only activates if the driver remembers to lock the vehicle with a fob, as opposed to using the switch on the door handle. Hyundai and Kia have continued to implement software upgrades in vehicles since the conclusion of the HLDI study in December, with about 60% of eligible vehicles having been upgraded as of last month.
In conclusion, the anti-theft software upgrades provided for Hyundai and Kia vehicles have proven to be effective in reducing theft rates and protecting owners from potential theft. As technology continues to evolve, it is crucial for automakers to prioritize security features to ensure the safety and security of their customers‘ vehicles.