New Kia and Hyundai Software Update Battles Thefts
The “Kia Boyz” shocked law enforcement and vehicle owners with a viral trend proving certain Hyundai Motor Group cars were uniquely susceptible to theft. Owners have analog solutions, like steering wheel locks, to prevent their cars from falling victim. However, the Dan Dipert Career and Technical Center and the Arlington Police Department have a more elegant solution. However, the solution is only for specific Kia and Hyundai models.
The Dan Dipert Career and Technical Center and the Arlington Police Department are teaming up to counter Kia and Hyundai thefts with an update
Kia and Hyundai vehicles are at the center of one of the wildest theft trends in recent years. Unfortunately, the thefts prompt owners to turn to some analog solutions. For instance, some police departments across the country will give owners a steering wheel lock, a physical immobilization device, to make the vehicles more difficult to steal. However, many owners are frustrated and apprehensive that their sensible car could be an easy quarry for thieves.
However, the Arlington Police Department and the Dan Dipert Career and Technical Center have a solution, per CBS News. Specifically, it’s a software update for Kia and Hyundai vehicles. Drivers can bring their cars to the Dan Dipert Career and Technical Center to get the update. That said, the update only applies to vehicles with “turn-to-start” ignitions. As such, modern vehicles with “push-to-start” keyless operations needn’t show up.
It’s good news for Texas-based owners. Over two years ago, the social media phenomenon known as the “Kia Boyz” cataloged young car thieves targeting the Hyundai Motor Group’s vehicles.
In the TikTok videos, Kia Boyz would steal Kia and Hyundai cars with just a USB port and a screwdriver. The trend went viral, and Hyundai and Kia thefts became commonplace. Tragically, the brand’s cars were so easily stolen that the Motor Group was on the hook for $200 million to compensate owners.
