A surge in vehicle theft has affected owners of certain Hyundai and Kia models across the United States. This highly publicized issue quickly escalated into a national consumer safety and insurance crisis, driven by widespread attention on social media. The disproportionate targeting of these vehicles has led to a significant increase in theft claims and financial disruption for owners. This situation highlights a vulnerability that prompted a major response from the manufacturer.
Specific Hyundai Models Targeted
The vehicles most susceptible to theft are certain Hyundai models from the 2011 through 2022 model years manufactured without a specific anti-theft component. These vulnerable models are exclusively those equipped with a standard “turn-key-to-start” ignition system, not a push-button start feature. Affected models include the Elantra (2011–2022), Sonata (2011–2019), and Tucson (2011–2022). Other targeted models are the Accent (2018–2022), Veloster (2012–2017 and 2019–2021), and the Venue (2020–2021). Hyundai did not make the electronic engine immobilizer standard across all models until November 2021, meaning newer vehicles produced after this date are not subject to this security flaw.
The Technical Vulnerability and Theft Method
The elevated theft rate stems from the absence of an electronic engine immobilizer in specific entry-level trims. This system uses a transponder chip in the key to transmit a unique code to the vehicle’s computer, allowing the engine to start only if the codes match. Without this mechanism, the ignition system is easily compromised once a thief accesses the steering column. The theft method is non-technical and takes less than a minute to execute. After breaking a side window, the thief removes the plastic housing around the steering column to expose the ignition cylinder. The exposed cylinder can then be turned without the correct key, often using a flathead screwdriver or the metal tip of a USB charging cable, which bypasses the conventional ignition lock and starts the vehicle.
Manufacturer Fixes and Owner Precautions
Software Fix
Hyundai’s official response is a free anti-theft software upgrade designed to mitigate the risk for nearly four million eligible vehicles. This software update modifies the vehicle’s control modules to activate an “ignition kill” feature when the doors are locked with the key fob. The feature prevents the car from starting if the factory alarm is set and a thief attempts the hot-wiring method. Owners must visit a dealership for installation, a process that takes less than an hour, and they receive window decals. Data indicates that vehicles receiving this software solution have experienced a 53% lower theft claim frequency.
Owner Precautions
For owners whose vehicles are not eligible for the software update, Hyundai offers a free steering wheel lock as a physical deterrent. Owners can take additional precautions to discourage theft attempts. Using a visible physical deterrent, such as a brightly colored steering wheel lock, can be effective, as thieves often look for the easiest targets. Parking in well-lit areas or secured garages whenever possible can also reduce the chances of a break-in.