Everything You Need to Know About Recent Hyundai and Kia Vehicle Thefts
Learn Tips to Protect Your Hyundai or Kia from Vandalism
& Theft
Your vehicle is more than just a means of
getting from point A to point B; it’s also an asset that can bring you
security, comfort, and possibility. Considering how important
vehicles are in many people’s day-to-day lives, it’s understandable that most will
do everything in their power to protect their vehicle against the risks of the road.
Unfortunately the risks of the road can
include vandalism and theft, and for owners of Hyundai and Kia
vehicles manufactured between 2015 and 2019, a dangerous TikTok social media
challenge has added to fears by targeting these vehicles. Continue reading to
learn more about the social media challenge targeting Hyundai and Kia vehicles
and how you can protect your vehicle from vandalism and theft.
Why Are Hyundai and Kia Vehicles Being Targeted?
According to a Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) analysis of 2021
insurance claims, “When it comes to theft, bargain-priced vehicles
manufactured by Kia and Hyundai now rival muscle cars and luxury SUVs as top
targets.”
Thieves prefer to steal vehicles that are high
in value, as evident in the HLDI Report on vehicle losses. But they also
prefer to steal vehicles that are easily stolen, and some Hyundai and Kia
vehicles manufactured between 2015 and 2019 lack electronic immobilizers that
prevent thieves from breaking in and bypassing the ignition. Because of this,
social media “challenges” have arisen that show these exploits and encourage
people to create social media content while stealing vehicles.
How Have Hyundai and Kia Responded to Thefts?
“Hyundai Motor America is concerned about the
recent rise in auto thefts of certain Hyundai model vehicles,” said the company
in a statement. “While all of our vehicles meet or exceed Federal Motor Vehicle
Safety Standards, unfortunately, our vehicles have been targeted in a
coordinated effort on social media.”
In February 2023, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
shared a press release stating that Hyundai and Kia
have worked to provide anti-theft solutions for the owners of affected vehicle
models. According to the release, approximately 3.8 million Hyundais and 4.5
million Kias are involved in the service campaign.
In the press release, the NHTSA urges the
owners of these vehicles to contact Hyundai or Kia for information on a free
software update which will, “…extend the length of the alarm sound from 30
seconds to one minute and require the key to be in the ignition switch to turn
the vehicle on.”
In addition to the software update, the release states that between November
2022 and February 2023 Hyundai and Kia worked to provide 26,000 steering wheel
locks to 77 law enforcement agencies in 12 states.
What Steps Can I Take to Prevent Vehicle Theft?
If you own a Hyundai or Kia manufactured
between 2015 and 2019, you may be concerned about the security of your vehicle
and eager to learn about the steps you can take to mitigate the risk of theft
or vandalism. Follow these steps to take a proactive approach in keeping your vehicle
safe:
●
Roll up your windows and lock your
vehicle.
●
Never leave your keys in your
vehicle.
●
Try not to leave valuables in your vehicle, and never leave
valuables in plain sight.
●
If you have a garage, lock your
vehicle inside at night.
●
If you don’t have a garage, park
in well-lit areas at night. Install motion-activated lights in your driveway
for a cost-effective security measure.
●
Consider purchasing a steering
wheel lock for added peace of mind.
●
If you own a Hyundai or Kia manufactured between 2015 and 2019: Contact Hyundai (toll-free at 800-633-5151) or Kia (toll-free at
800-333-4542) for more information on your free security update.
Although it may be concerning to know that these risks
to your property exist, you can rest assured that with the right coverage you can protect your
hard-earned possessions against the unknown. Click below to find an agent near
you to discuss your auto insurance needs!
