As a local insurance agency, we strive to keep our clients informed about emerging trends and issues that may impact their safety and financial well-being. Recently, we have observed a disturbing trend in our community - an alarming increase in thefts of Hyundai and Kia vehicles. This rise in car thefts raises concerns for both vehicle owners and insurance providers alike.
On behalf of our company, Stillwater, we are sharing some important information below for how to resolve the potential threat of theft for Kia and Hyundai owners. In response to the increase in thefts, both Hyundai and Kia have developed theft deterrent software and will provide it to vehicle owners at no cost. Stillwater has already sent a communication to policyholders insuring one or more eligible vehicles (model years 2011-2021 with a twist to start ignition system), to warn them of the increased risk and urge them to contact Kia and/or Hyundai to install the available security updates as soon as possible. PLEASE ensure you are protected from theft by pursusing this important security update.
Helpful Contact information:
Hyundai toll-free: 800-633-5151
Kia toll-free: 800-333-4542
A bit of backround if this is all news to you...According to a recent article in AP news, Hyundai and Kia have been experiencing an increase in vehicle thefts across the United States despite their efforts to address the issue. The companies had introduced software to counter a security flaw exposed on social media platforms like TikTok. However, data from seven U.S. cities reveals that the number of thefts of Hyundai and Kia vehicles continues to rise. The thefts have been attributed to instructional videos circulating on platforms such as TikTok, which demonstrate how to start and steal these car models using a screwdriver and a USB cable.
Cities have seen a surge in Hyundai and Kia thefts, prompting the distribution of tracking devices to vehicle owners. The thefts have also been linked to other crimes, including reported crashes and fatalities. Although the automakers have been actively distributing the anti-theft software, safety authorities and critics argue that the rollout has been too slow. The affected vehicles, particularly lower-cost models from 2011 to early 2022, did not have theft immobilizers installed, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation.
Despite efforts to raise awareness and initiate a service campaign to install the software, not all vehicle owners are aware of the issue or have sought repairs. The completion rates for recalls are typically around 60%. Some vehicles may require alternative solutions, and the automakers have agreed to provide anti-theft devices for those cases. Multiple cities, including St. Louis, Cleveland, Milwaukee, and Seattle, have filed lawsuits against Hyundai and Kia, alleging their failure to install industry-standard anti-theft devices.
The increasing thefts of Hyundai and Kia vehicles have become a public safety concern, with teenagers often involved in joyriding, hit-and-run incidents, and other crimes. Authorities highlight the need for swift action to hold individuals accountable and prevent further harm to both the offenders and the community at large.
According to an article from NPR, The "Kia Challenge" TikTok fad will cost Hyundai and Kia another $200 million. The two automakers have agreed to pay an expected $200 million as compensation for customers who had their cars stolen or damaged in ways not covered by insurance. The money will also reimburse Hyundai and Kia owners for any losses due to paying insurance deductibles, higher insurance premiums, or other theft-related losses.