Hyundai and Kia Introduce Complimentary Anti-Theft Software to Address Rise in Car Thefts

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Over the past year, numerous Hyundai and Kia vehicles using traditional keys have fallen victim to theft due to the absence of an immobilizer. Consequently, instances of theft and insurance claims have surged, prompting both car manufacturers to introduce a solution. Commencing today, Hyundai dealers will implement a software update for impacted vehicles at no charge to owners. This solution is envisioned by the automaker to reduce theft occurrences and offer owners a greater sense of security. Kia also has a strategy in place, albeit not yet formally disclosed.

Not all Hyundai vehicles with traditional ignition keys are immediately eligible for the company’s remedy. Initially, the update will apply to Elantras from 2017 to 2020, Sonatas from 2015 to 2019, and Venues from 2020 to 2021. By June 2023, all other models in Hyundai’s lineup will become eligible. Hyundai has included a schedule below to clarify the rollout process.

“Certain vehicles from 2011 to 2022 lacking engine immobilizers are incompatible with the software upgrade,” as stated in a press release from Hyundai. “For these customers, Hyundai is finalizing a plan to reimburse them for the purchase of steering wheel locks. Further details will be provided to these customers shortly.”

In essence, individuals who recently acquired Hyundai products may still find themselves excluded from the solution. It should be noted that Hyundai and Kia only began incorporating immobilizers in their vehicles as of 2021.

The software update operates in a straightforward manner. When the key fob locks the doors, an “ignition kill” function is activated. Essentially, if the car is locked using the fob, it becomes impervious to theft attempts using methods as rudimentary as a USB cable. While a window may be broken, it’s unlikely that an inexperienced individual following a trend on TikTok will succeed in stealing your car.

Once the update is applied, vehicles will receive window stickers to indicate completion of the solution.

Hyundai and Kia, both subsidiaries of the same parent corporation, have similar software strategies in place. A spokesperson, upon inquiry, disclosed that “Kia has finalized the development of enhanced security software to prevent unauthorized operation of vehicle ignition systems on specific models lacking an immobilizer. Kia has commenced notifying owners about this complimentary software enhancement and anticipates making it accessible to most affected vehicle owners in the coming months.” Owners can check if their vehicle qualifies for the update using the automaker’s owner portal.

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