Hyundai and Kia encountered significant challenges recently, as numerous vehicles produced by these manufacturers were susceptible to theft. Due to this vulnerability and a viral social media trend, Hyundai and Kia vehicles ranked as the most stolen in the United States in both 2021 and 2023. The absence of immobilizers in these cars rendered them particularly easy targets, contributing to the rise of trends like the ‘Kia Boys’. Nevertheless, as these South Korean automakers have enhanced their anti-theft strategies, the country has witnessed the largest annual decline in vehicle thefts in four decades.

Data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) indicates that Hyundai and Kia models were among the top five most stolen vehicles last year. However, thefts of these brands decreased by approximately 37.5 per cent compared to previous years. Overall vehicle thefts in the United States fell by 16.6 per cent, totalling 850,708 units in 2024, down from a record high of 1.02 million vehicles in 2023, according to NICB statistics.

According to a report by Reuters, the introduction of new anti-theft features in Kia and Hyundai vehicles, combined with improved supply chain conditions, has diminished the profitability of stealing vehicles for their parts. The increased availability of auto parts and new cars has also made vehicle theft less appealing to criminals.

Hyundai and Kia car theft: What measures these OEMs took

In response to the theft issues, Hyundai has announced several initiatives aimed at protecting certain entry-level models that lack immobilizers. These measures include offering free software updates, installing ignition cylinder protectors, and providing reimbursement programs. The company has reported that 68 per cent of the at-risk vehicles have already received the necessary anti-theft updates.

During the pandemic, carjackings surged as supply chain disruptions inflated the prices of vehicles and their components. However, with improvements in the supply chain and the automotive industry, the financial incentive for vehicle stripping has significantly decreased.

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