Some Kia and Hyundai models lack engine immobilizers, which means they don’t require a key or keyfob present to start the engine. This makes them easy targets for thieves. However, Hyundai made engine immobilizers standard on all models starting in 2021, while Kia made them standard in 2022. Certain models received immobilizers earlier, such as the Kia Optima Hybrid (2016), Kia Sorento, and Hyundai Veloster (2018). The following list contains those models that don’t require a key or keyfob to start:
- 2015-2021 Hyundai Accent (all body styles)
- 2015-2021 Hyundai Elantra (two-door and four-door)
- 2015-2021 Hyundai Kona
- 2015-2021 Hyundai Santa Fe
- 2015-2021 Hyundai Tucson
- 2015-2018 Hyundai Veloster
- 2015-2021 Kia Forte
- 2015-2021 Kia Optima
- 2015-2016 Kia Optima Hybrid
- 2015-2021 Kia Rio (all body styles)
- 2015-2021 Kia Sedona
- 2015-2016 Kia Sorento
- 2015-2021 Kia Soul
- 2015-2021 Kia Sportage
During the pandemic, a trend on TikTok and YouTube went viral teaching people how to hijack some Kia and Hyundai models with a screwdriver and USB charging cord, so thefts of these models skyrocketed.
Both Kia and Hyundai said they are issuing a software update, for free, to customers with affected cars. In addition, both manufacturers are offering free steering wheel locks to some law enforcement agencies around the country to distribute to affected customers. Hyundai’s spokesperson said car owners can also bring their car to a local Hyundai dealer to buy and install a customized security kit.
If you are an owner of one of the affected Kia or Hyundai models, please protect your vehicle from theft by implementing one of the easy solutions offered by the car manufacturers.
Unedited articles can be found at:
State Farm, Progressive Not Insuring Some Kia, Hyundai Cars (businessinsider.com)
These Hyundai and Kia Models Are Blacklisted By State Farm Insurance Over Thefts (thedrive.com)