After a Rise in Thefts, Hyundai Offers a Free 'Ignition Kill' Software Update

As a result of high theft claims, USA Today reports that some insurance companies have stopped issuing new policies for some Hyundai and Kia vehicles. CR reached out to two of those insurers, Progressive and State Farm, to see if they will issue new policies for cars that get the software update. We have not heard back yet.

The HLDI says that Hyundai and Kia vehicles from the 2015-2019 model years are easier to steal because many of them lack engine immobilizers, which prevent a car from being “hot-wired,” or started without the proper key in the ignition. Although 96 percent of vehicles had engine immobilizers as standard equipment in 2015, the feature was standard on only 26 percent of Hyundai and Kia models.

Although Hyundai and Kia are separate brands, the Hyundai Motor Company is the largest shareholder in Kia Motors, with 33.88 percent ownership. The two brands share many of the same parts from the same suppliers.

In a statement, Kia told CR that it has completed the development of a similar software update and has already started notifying some owners. Other Kia owners will be able to get the update “over the next few months,” according to the automaker.

Hyundai says its software update will set the factory-installed alarm system and activate an “ignition kill” feature if the vehicle’s doors are locked with a key fob. Drivers must use the key fob to unlock the doors to deactivate the feature. The update itself will take about an hour, and dealerships will also affix stickers to a window in the vehicle advertising its enhanced anti-theft software.

Some vehicles aren’t compatible with the software update. Instead, Hyundai says it will reimburse owners for purchasing steering wheel locks. Hyundai told CR that it’s also distributing steering wheel locks through local police departments.

No matter what you drive, Consumer Reports recommends locking your car when it’s unattended and not leaving any valuables in plain sight.