A groundbreaking software upgrade has led to a significant reduction in theft rates for Hyundai and Kia vehicles. Research from the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) reveals that this enhancement, rolled out in early 2023, has halved theft incidents for eligible models.
This advanced software ensures vehicles only start if the owner’s key or an identical duplicate is present in the ignition, coupled with a deterrent window sticker.
The surge in thefts began during the COVID-19 pandemic, spurred by viral social media instructional videos. The software’s introduction resulted in a 53% drop in theft claims for upgraded vehicles and a 64% decrease in whole vehicle thefts.
This upgrade applies to select 2011-2022 Hyundai and Kia models. By December 2023, 30% of eligible Hyundais and 28% of eligible Kias received the upgrade. Despite this progress, theft claim frequency for these vehicles remains elevated. Drivers need to lock their cars with a fob for the immobilizer to activate, which is not always practiced.
Vandalism claims rose, with a 61% increase for vehicles equipped with the anti-theft software, likely due to thwarted theft attempts causing damage. The overall trend points to a future decline in theft and vandalism rates as the software’s effectiveness becomes widely recognized.
Matt Moore, senior vice president of HLDI, stressed the upgrade’s importance: “If you own a Hyundai or Kia vehicle without an electronic immobilizer, you should call your local dealer about getting the software upgrade today.”
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