Hyundai and Kia Anti Theft software upgrade have successfully curbed the alarming rise in vehicle thefts. A new study by the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) reveals that the upgrade has reduced theft rates by more than 50% across the United States, marking a significant turnaround for the two South Korean automakers.
Background: A Surge in Thefts and Viral Videos
The theft crisis began in 2022 when videos surfaced on social media showing young thieves easily stealing certain Hyundai and Kia models. These vehicles, manufactured between 2011 and 2022, lacked immobilizers and push-button start mechanisms, making them particularly vulnerable. In the viral videos, the thieves demonstrated how to remove a plastic cover behind the steering wheel, use a USB cable to turn a knob, and drive away—prompting a wave of thefts nationwide.
As the thefts surged, major U.S. cities responded by filing lawsuits against Hyundai and Kia, holding them accountable for the growing number of stolen vehicles. In response, the automakers took decisive action by launching a software upgrade in February 2023, specifically targeting the theft-prone models.
The Impact of the Anti-Theft Software Upgrade
According to the HLDI study, the anti-theft software upgrade has had a profound impact. By December 2023, vehicles that had received the upgrade experienced a 53% reduction in theft claim frequencies compared to those without the upgrade. The study also noted that the frequency of whole vehicle theft dropped by an even more impressive 64% among upgraded vehicles.
Despite the initial rollout challenges, Hyundai and Kia have made significant progress in implementing the software upgrade. By the end of December 2023, approximately 30% of eligible Hyundai vehicles and 28% of eligible Kia vehicles had received the upgrade. This number continued to grow, with about 60% of eligible vehicles upgraded by mid-July 2024.
A Positive Outlook for the Future
Matt Moore, Senior Vice President of the HLDI, praised the effectiveness of the companies’ solution. “The companies’ solution is extremely effective,” Moore said. “Based on these trends, we expect claim rates for Hyundai and Kia vehicles to gradually drop back in line with those of other brands, as thieves learn they’re no longer so easy to steal and the fad gets stale.”
As Hyundai and Kia continue to expand the rollout of their anti-theft software, the outlook for reducing vehicle theft across the U.S. remains positive. The significant decrease in theft rates not only reflects the success of the software upgrade but also sets a new standard for automotive security in the industry.
Conclusion
The Hyundai and Kia anti-theft software upgrade has proven to be a critical tool in combating vehicle theft in the U.S. With theft rates now more than halved, the two automakers have taken a significant step towards regaining consumer trust and ensuring the safety of their vehicles. As more eligible vehicles receive the upgrade, theft rates are expected to continue declining, ultimately restoring confidence in the Hyundai and Kia brands.
