The update takes the place of electronic immobilizers, which are standard on most cars
of ConsumerAffairs
Thefts involving Hyundais and Kias that lack immobilizers have been cut by 50% since the company, which owns both brands, released a software update addressing the issue.
In a new study, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) said the update has proven effective at reducing thefts of 2011 to 2022 Hyundais and Kias.
The update was in response to a wave of thefts caused by social media videos showing how easy it was to steal cars lacking an immobilizer. With the new software, vehicles will only start if the owners key or an identical duplicate is in the ignition. Vehicles with the software also receive a window sticker aimed at deterring potential thieves.
According to IIHS, about two dozen 2011-22 Hyundai and Kia models are eligible for the upgrade. Those vehicles that received it as of December 2023 a total of 30% of the eligible Hyundais and 28% of the eligible Kias in HLDIs database had theft claim frequencies that were 53% lower than vehicles that didnt get the upgrade, the study found.
Extremely effective
The companies solution is extremely effective, said Matt Moore, senior vice president of the Highway Loss Data Institute, part of IIHS. If you own a Hyundai or Kia vehicle without an electronic immobilizer, you should call your local dealer about getting the software upgrade today.
HLDI says electronic immobilizers were standard equipment on only 17% of 2011 Hyundai and Kia models, while 92% of 2011 models from all other brands have the anti-theft device as standard equipment. The two brands were slow to add the equipment, with only 84% of 2022 model Hyundais and Kias having it as standard equipment.
Photo Credit: Consumer Affairs News Department Images
Posted: 2024-08-08 11:09:05
