Theft rates for Hyundai and Kia vehicles have been significantly reduced thanks to a software upgrade offered to owners by the companies. This upgrade, which includes an electronic immobilizer, was implemented in response to a surge in theft claims that began during the COVID-19 pandemic. The software ensures that vehicles can only be started with the owner’s key or an identical duplicate, providing an added layer of security. In addition, vehicles with the upgrade receive a window sticker aimed at deterring potential thieves.
According to research from the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI), vehicles that received the software upgrade had theft claim frequencies that were 53% lower than those that did not. This decrease was even more significant for whole vehicle theft, which saw a 64% reduction in claim frequency. The effectiveness of the upgrade has been praised by Matt Moore, senior vice president of HLDI, who encourages all Hyundai and Kia owners without electronic immobilizers to contact their local dealer for the upgrade.
Electronic immobilizers were not standard equipment on many Hyundai and Kia models prior to 2023, with only 17% of 2011 models having them. This lack of security features made these vehicles more vulnerable to theft compared to models from other brands. However, the companies have made significant progress in implementing immobilizers, with them being standard on all models by 2023.
Despite the success of the software upgrade in reducing theft rates, theft claim frequency for Hyundai and Kia vehicles remains elevated. This may be due to drivers forgetting to lock their vehicles with the fob, allowing thieves to easily access them. Additionally, thieves who are unable to steal the entire vehicle may resort to stealing items from inside, contributing to the continued high theft claim frequency.
Vandalism claim frequency for Hyundai and Kia vehicles has also increased, likely as a result of failed theft attempts. The implementation of the software upgrade has not completely eliminated theft and vandalism, but it has significantly reduced the rates. HLDI expects that as thieves realize these vehicles are no longer easy targets, claim rates will gradually decrease and align with those of other brands.
In conclusion, the software upgrade offered by Hyundai and Kia has proven to be a highly effective solution in reducing theft rates for their vehicles. Owners are encouraged to take advantage of this upgrade to enhance the security of their vehicles and deter potential thieves. As the companies continue to upgrade eligible vehicles, it is expected that theft and vandalism claim rates will eventually decrease to levels comparable to other brands.