Hyundai and Kia owners are seeing a positive change, particularly in terms of theft prevention. Recent figures from the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) reveal a substantial 53 percent decrease in theft claims for models that have undergone a software update to enhance security.
"The solution implemented by the companies is highly effective," commented Matt Moore, senior vice president of HLDI. "If you own a Hyundai or Kia vehicle without an electronic immobilizer, it's advisable to contact your local dealer to arrange for the software upgrade immediately."
However, there remains a significant number of owners who have yet to take this step. As of July 2024, HLDI reports that around 60 percent of eligible vehicles have been updated. The update introduces an immobilizer that necessitates the presence of the key in the ignition to start the vehicle. This measure counters the techniques showcased in the notorious 'Kia Boys' videos, which during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrated how to steal these cars swiftly without a key.
The vulnerability of these vehicles escalated to such an extent that several insurance companies ceased coverage, leading to multiple lawsuits against Hyundai Group. Notably, a $200 million class-action lawsuit, settled in May 2023, addressed the issues of 8.3 million vehicles from 2011 through 2022. Additionally, insurance companies initiated a lawsuit claiming over $1 billion in damages.
Although thefts have notably decreased post-update, HLDI observes that insurance claims remain elevated for the affected models. Despite the update, there are instances where thieves attempt to steal the vehicles, unaware that they won't start, resulting in damage and theft of items from the vehicle. Nonetheless, the vehicle remains in place upon the owner's return.
"Given these developments, we anticipate that claim rates for Hyundai and Kia vehicles will gradually align with those of other brands, as thieves realize these vehicles are no longer as easy to steal and the trend fades," Moore predicted.
