TECH BYTE: Hyundai, Kia Offer Theft Software Fix

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — Some Hyundais and Kias are getting a free anti-theft software upgrade.

This comes after too many of them were getting stolen.

After some insurance companies like State Farm said they would stop offering coverage for certain Hyundais and Kias, the car companies are now stepping in.

They’re now upgrading the anti-theft software on certain models made between 2015 and 2019.

More than eight million vehicles are impacted.

They have turn-key ignitions, making them easier to steal than those with push button starts.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says the software updates lengthen the alarm sound, and require the key to be in the ignition switch to turn the car on.

The NHTSA says this all stems from a recent TikTok social media challenge, which resulted in at least 14 crashes, and eight deaths.

Hyundai customers who get the update will also get a sticker for their window, warning wannabe thieves that their car has anti-theft protection.

Both Hyundai and Kia are taking a phased approach with installing the updates over the next several months.

The NHTSA says the companies have also been working with law enforcement since last fall to provide more than 26,000 steering wheel locks in 12 states.

The agency encourages interested car owners to contact local law enforcement to see if a wheel lock is available.

If you have any questions about the free update, contact Hyundai or Kia to see if your car is affected. And if so, when you’re able to get it fixed.