Theft rates for Hyundai and Kia cars have plummeted thanks to a new anti-theft software upgrade, leaving would-be thieves scouring social media for new challenges.

In a move that has sent car thieves scrambling for fresh targets, Hyundai and Kia have rolled out a new anti-theft software upgrade that requires the owner's key—or an identical duplicate—to start the vehicle. This has resulted in a 64% drop in whole vehicle thefts, according to a recent Highway Loss Data Institute study. Although the software has proven effective, even cutting overall theft claims by 53%, the auto industry is finding that wannabe bandits are now more likely to vent their frustrations on social media—and sometimes on the cars themselves.

The anti-theft upgrade has garnered significant attention, especially given the circumstances that led to its development. As it turns out, the alarming rise in Hyundai and Kia thefts was in part fueled by social media challenges, notably the 'Kia Challenge.' This viral trend provided step-by-step instructions on how to steal these vehicles, resulting in at least 14 crashes and 8 fatalities. For a time, it seemed like an instructional video for car theft was more accessible than a good recipe for lasagna.

Certain Hyundai and Kia models produced between 2011 and 2022 are eligible for this software update, which has to date been installed in roughly 60% of eligible vehicles by July 2024. This is a significant increase in comparison to the 30% of eligible Hyundais and 28% of eligible Kias enrolled by the end of 2023. The updated software's primary feature is to ensure that the car will only start if the proper key is in the ignition, thereby rendering old hot-wiring tricks useless. Would-be hot-wirers might need to find a new hobby!

Despite these promising numbers, it appears some of the relief felt by Hyundai and Kia owners is mixed with a cautionary blend of disappointment. Even after the upgrade, theft claims for these models are still higher than the industry average. This enduring susceptibility has caused some owners to go to great lengths to protect their vehicles, ranging from investing in traditional steering wheel locks to keeping overly affectionate guard dogs.

Mark, a recent PTSD sufferer from losing his Hyundai during the 'Kia Challenge' craze, remarks, 'I used to think I was safe until a 12-year-old on TikTok took away my sense of security. Now, with the software upgrade, I'm glad to have my car back, but I'm still watching TikTok with trepidation.' Many others share Mark's uneasy sentiment, constantly wary that social media may provide the next grand blueprint for would-be thieves.

In an ironic twist, the upgraded software, while making it harder to steal the entire vehicle, has led to an increase in vandalism claims. Apparently, if a thief can't drive your car away, they might just decide to take their frustration out on it. HLDI reports a surge in vandalism incidents since the software was introduced, with many a side mirror meeting a sudden, tragic end.

The issue isn’t entirely solved yet, as the effectiveness of the anti-theft software can be compromised if the vehicle is locked using the door handle switch rather than the key fob. This overlooked detail means some owners unwittingly create an Achilles' heel in their car’s newfound armor. Therefore, while the software upgrade is commendable, there's a clear need for drivers to re-educate themselves on best security practices—or risk learning them the hard way.

In an effort to mitigate the consequences of past thefts and restore client trust, Hyundai and Kia have agreed to a $200 million settlement in a class-action lawsuit filed by drivers who had their vehicles stolen. This gesture aims to provide some financial relief to those affected and enhance the companies' commitment to customer security. While Hyundai and Kia are serious about enhancing their security measures, they're also hoping this settlement will help turn their stolen cars story into a thing of the past. After all, no one wants their car to be the star of a social media challenge.

Notably, with this software update and settlement, Hyundai and Kia have shown their dedication to addressing the issue head-on. However, not all models are eligible for the software upgrade, leaving some owners in a precarious position. For those unfortunate enough to have ineligible models, traditional security measures may still be their best bet. It's almost like these cars are playing hard-to-get, but instead of romance, it's about safety!

Hyundai and Kia have publicly stated their ongoing commitment to improving vehicle security. One can only hope that future measures will address every loophole and render the cars as appealing to thieves as a heavily discounted fruitcake on Boxing Day. For now, it seems the two automotive giants have made significant strides in safeguarding their products and restoring peace of mind to their client base.