Rise in Vehicle Thefts

There has been a significant increase in Hyundai and Kia vehicle thefts recently due to a security loophole that was spread via social media. This loophole allows some Kia and Hyundai models to be started without a key. Several videos have been shared primarily on TikTok that show thieves breaking into these vehicles and taking them for joyrides.

Thieves appear to know which models are easier to steal. The claim frequency of 2015-2019 Hyundai and Kia vehicles during the first half of 2022 was over three times higher than during the first half of 2020.

Hyundai and Kia are now both offering various anti-theft options to combat this issue. Both manufacturers are offering an anti-theft software patch that will require an actual key to start the engine. The software update will also increase the theft alarm from 30 seconds to 1 minute. Finally, Hyundai and Kia have teamed up with many local law enforcement agencies to offer steering wheel locks to deter thieves.

If you are the owner of one of these vehicles, we strongly urge you to contact the manufacturer and local police department to learn more about the anti-theft options available to you.

Hyundai: (800) 633-5151 hyundaiantitheft.com

Kia: (800) 333-4542 owners.kia.com/us/en/kia-owner-portal.html