The software fix for highly stolen Hyundai and Kia vehicles appears to be making a significant impact, according to the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI). This fix comes in response to a concerning trend where certain Hyundai and Kia models were being targeted by thieves due to the absence of anti-theft immobilizers, a security feature that prevents the engine from starting without the proper key fob.
It is worth noting that immobilizers had become standard on 96% of vehicles from other manufacturers sold in the U.S. by 2015. However, Hyundai and Kia, both part of the Hyundai Motor Group, did not make this feature standard until about six years later. This delay left their vehicles vulnerable to theft, with thieves taking advantage of the lack of immobilizers.
The issue gained widespread attention as information spread on social media platforms like TikTok, alerting potential thieves to the ease of stealing Hyundai and Kia vehicles without immobilizers. As a result, theft claims for 2015-19 Hyundai and Kia models were nearly twice as common compared to other manufacturers for the same model years, as reported by HLDI in 2022.
In response to this concerning trend, the automakers began offering anti-theft software upgrades for affected vehicles in early 2023. Approximately two dozen 2011-22 Hyundai and Kia models were identified as eligible for the upgrade, according to HLDI. The results of the upgrade have been promising, with vehicles that received the software update experiencing a 53% lower theft claim frequency compared to those that did not receive the upgrade, as per new research from HLDI.
Matt Moore, senior vice president of HLDI, praised the effectiveness of the software fix, stating that it has proven to be an extremely successful solution. He urged owners of Hyundai and Kia vehicles without electronic immobilizers to contact their local dealer to inquire about getting the software upgrade.
Despite the positive impact of the software upgrade on theft claim frequency, HLDI noted that claim frequency for theft and vandalism continued to rise for Hyundai and Kia vehicles throughout 2023. However, the rate of increase for theft significantly decreased following the implementation of the software fix.
As of mid-July, approximately 60% of eligible vehicles had received the software upgrade. Cars that have undergone the upgrade will only start if the owner’s key or an identical duplicate is present in the ignition. Additionally, these upgraded vehicles are equipped with a window sticker designed to deter potential thieves.
In conclusion, the software fix for highly stolen Hyundai and Kia vehicles has proven to be effective in reducing theft claim frequency. Owners of eligible vehicles are encouraged to take advantage of this upgrade to enhance the security of their vehicles and protect them from potential theft incidents.