Software update cuts targeted Hyundai/Kia thefts in half

Software updates implemented in Hyundai and Kia vehicles affected by a critical security oversight have cut vehicle theft rates by more than 50%.

Driving the news: The two automakers started distributing anti-theft software updates for more than 20 models in early 2023, several years after criminals began exploiting the vehicles’ lack of an engine immobilizer. The vulnerability spread quickly through social media during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a massive spike in break-ins, property damage, and vehicle theft.

• The Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) estimated that vehicles with the software update saw crime-related claim rates 53% lower than those without. Actual vehicle thefts declined by 64%.

• HLDI conducted its study last December when only 30% of affected Hyundai and Kia vehicles had received the update. Today, both brands say the percentage is closer to 60%.

• However, theft rates remain higher for all affected models, software or not.

Big picture: Hyundai and Kia reached a settlement last year over the issue, which went on for multiple years before the two brands took action.

• The companies agreed to pay $145 million in damages to owners of affected vehicles after a class action lawsuit.

• Drivers without an engine immobilizer whose vehicles were incompatible with the update can get up to $300 in reimbursement for their purchase of a wheel lock.

Bottom line: It is impressive that a simple software update could (mostly) fix such a serious oversight. But at the end of the day, consumers are still being affected by an issue that could have been avoided had both brands approached the situation differently.

Become an automotive insider in just 5 minutes.

Get the weekly email that delivers transparent insights into the car market.

Join 73,000 others now, it's free:

Dealerships that sell vehicles across state lines know out-of-state titling and registration can be a headache. That’s why DLRdmv created DLR50 – The nation’s fastest-growing interstate titling platform.

DLRdmv understands the impact these deals can have on your business. With DLR50, your dealership now has 24/7 portal access to calculations, pre-filled forms, checklists, inquiries, plus white glove processing and specialist support, DLR50 is a game-changer.

You can even acquire duplicate titles in all 50 states directly through the DLR50 platform!

Out-of-state deals don’t have to be complicated! Let DLR50 simplify the entire process for you and your team.

Click Here to let us show you how DLR50 can help your dealership today!

DLRdmv – “The Dealer’s DMV”