Both carmakers released a free software update that prevents a vehicle from starting if it isn’t unlocked with the key fob.

The patch also doubled the alarm’s duration.

Unfortunately, this ignition kill feature isn’t compatible with all vulnerable vehicles.

As the update rolls out, the manufacturers are working with police departments to provide steering locks.

The software update is a response to the sharp increase in car theft nationwide, as information on how to steal Kias and Hyundais went viral on TikTok.

The #KiaBoyz, as the intruders called themselves, showed that they could turn on a car by simply tearing off the ignition cylinder and turning the ignition switch beneath using a USB cable.

They uploaded videos of themselves stealing cars, vandalizing interiors, and driving around recklessly on public roads.

Image Credit: NBC News | Youtube

Many Kias built between 2011 and 2021 and Hyundais built from 2015 to 2021 that use conventional keys are vulnerable to this mode  of theft.

These include the Hyundai

Elantra

Accent

Santa Fe

Sonata

and many more models.

96% of vehicles sold from  2015 to 2019 have engine immobilizers that prevent  the vehicle from being started without the right key.

2015-2019 vehicles sold

96%

However, only 26% of Kias and Hyundais are equipped with an immobilizer.

Kia and Hyundai models  with an immobilizer

26%

As a result, there has been a marked increase in car theft nationwide.

Chicago had a

767%

increase in Kia and Hyundai theft.

To protect their businesses, insurance providers State Farm and Progressive are refusing to cover some of the affected Kia and Hyundai models because they are simply too risky  to insure.

Last year, four teenagers were killed in New York after a failed Kia joyride.

The NHTSA* said that there have been 14 reported crashes and 8 deaths due to the TikTok trend.

*National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

There were also several high-speed pursuits when police attempted to apprehend stolen vehicles.

It’s worrying that many of the perpetrators are minors.

Car owners also filed a national class-action lawsuit against Kia and Hyundai. Owners say that the automakers were aware that not installing an immobilizer was a risk, but didn’t warn drivers.

It’s unclear how long it will take to update the 8.3 million eligible vehicles.

Hyundai owners can check Hyundai’s anti-theft website to see when their vehicle is eligible.

Wondering how you  can report stolen  vehicles online? 

Check out our blog article