Hyundai and Kia’s Anti-Theft Software Shows Significant Results Amid Ongoing Theft Crisis

Hyundai and Kia’s new anti-theft software is showing promising results, according to recent insurance claim data. The update, which was introduced in February 2023 following a surge in vehicle thefts, has significantly reduced theft claims for vehicles equipped with the new technology.

An analysis by the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) reveals that theft claims for Hyundai and Kia models with the software upgrade are down by 64% compared to those without the update. The decline comes amid a broader theft epidemic that has affected various vehicle brands.

The software update was part of a $200 million settlement agreement and was implemented in response to a dramatic increase in thefts of certain older Hyundai and Kia models. These models, particularly those manufactured before 2023, were targeted after social media videos demonstrated how to steal them.

Thefts of these models surged by over 1,000% between early 2020 and mid-2023. The vehicles were found to be particularly susceptible to theft due to their use of turn-key ignitions instead of push-to-start systems and the absence of electronic immobilizers, which are standard in most other vehicles.

Since the rollout of the update, Hyundai and Kia have retrofitted more than 2 million vehicles with the new software. However, data from 2023 indicates that only about 30% of eligible vehicles had the upgrade installed by the end of the year. Currently, about 61% of eligible Hyundai vehicles have received the update, according to the automaker.

Despite the improvements, theft rates for these older models remain higher compared to other vehicles. The HLDI suggests that improper use of the new security features could be a factor, as the software requires locking the vehicle with the key fob rather than using the traditional door lock.

Hyundai and Kia are also providing steering wheel locks for models that cannot be upgraded. Experts believe that the decline in thefts is partly due to the fad-like nature of the thefts, which were heavily influenced by social media trends. As the novelty wears off, thefts of these vehicles are expected to continue decreasing.

Matt Moore, Senior Vice President of HLDI, noted that while the new software has been effective, ongoing vigilance and correct usage of the security features are crucial to maintaining these gains.