New software has dramatically cut Hyundai and Kia thefts
Summary
Thefts involving Hyundais and Kias that lack immobilizers have been cut by 50% since the company, which owns both brands, released a software update addressing the issue. In a new study, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) said the update has proven effective at reducing thefts of 2011 to 2022 Hyundais and Kias. The update was in response to a wave of thefts caused by social media videos showing how easy it was to steal cars lacking an immobilizer. “The companies’ solution is extremely effective,” said Matt Moore, senior vice president of the Highway Loss Data Institute, part of IIHS. “If you own a Hyundai or Kia vehicle without an electronic immobilizer, you should call your local dealer about getting the software upgrade today.” HLDI says electronic immobilizers were standard equipment on only 17% of 2011 Hyundai and Kia models, while 92% of 2011 models from all other brands have the anti-theft device as standard equipment.