Decline in Thefts of Hyundai and Kia Models
According to research conducted by the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI), the thefts of Hyundai and Kia models are finally on the decline. This is significant news considering that these car models have consistently topped the list of most-stolen cars and have been notorious for their vulnerability to theft.
To address this issue, Hyundai and Kia started offering a software upgrade in February 2023. The upgrade ensures that the car will only start if the owner’s key or an identical duplicate is used in the ignition. The HLDI data reveals that vehicles that received this upgrade as of December 2023 had theft claim frequencies that were 53% lower than those without the upgrade. It is important to note that at that time, only 30% of eligible Hyundais and 28% of eligible Kias had received the fix. However, this number has improved significantly, with the companies claiming that 60% of all eligible cars had the upgrade as of mid-July 2024.
The 53% reduction in theft claim frequencies includes more than just complete vehicle thefts. The HLDI states that it also takes into account claims for damage to vehicles that were stolen and recovered, theft of vehicle parts, and items stolen from inside the vehicle. Moreover, the HLDI estimates that the frequency of “whole vehicle theft” has decreased by 64%, which is a remarkable figure.
However, the HLDI suggests that user practices may be contributing to the less-than-ideal figures. In order for the software immobilizer fix to be effective, owners need to lock the vehicle with the fob and avoid using the keyless entry/exit on the door handle. Failure to follow this practice may leave the vehicle vulnerable to theft, even with the upgrade.
To further deter theft, Hyundai and Kia have implemented a sticker on the window to indicate if a car is equipped with the new anti-theft software upgrade. Interestingly, the HLDI found that vandalism claims were more common for the Hyundais and Kias with the new anti-theft software than for those without. This can be attributed to failed theft attempts, which often result in broken windows and damage to the steering column.
Matt Moore, the senior vice president of HLDI, expects that claim rates for Hyundai and Kia vehicles will gradually decrease and align with those of other brands. Thieves will realize that these vehicles are no longer easy targets, and the trend of stealing them will lose its appeal.
In light of these developments, it is highly recommended for Hyundai and Kia owners who have not yet applied the software upgrade to do so. This upgrade is crucial in protecting their vehicles from theft and minimizing the risk of damage or loss.
