Rising thefts of vehicles without push-button ignitions and advanced anti-theft systems have prompted Hyundai to roll out a free software upgrade, aimed at thwarting a theft method that has spread rapidly on social media. This new initiative, set to begin on February 14, will address the vulnerabilities of nearly 4 million Hyundai vehicles.
The comprehensive service campaign will initially target over 1 million vehicles from the model years 2017-2020 Elantra, 2015-2019 Sonata, and 2020-2021 Venue. These models have been susceptible to a theft technique that exploits their standard ignition systems.
The software upgrade will be available for the remaining eligible vehicles by June 2023, with the entire process to be completed by Hyundai dealers in under an hour. After the upgrade, each vehicle will be marked with window decals that signal to potential thieves that the car is now equipped with enhanced anti-theft technology.
Hyundai’s new software update introduces a significant upgrade to the vehicles’ existing systems. It modifies specific vehicle control modules to activate an “ignition kill” feature when the car doors are locked with the key fob.
This feature prevents the vehicle from starting in the event of an attempted theft using the widely publicized method. To start the vehicle, customers will need to use the key fob to unlock the doors and deactivate the anti-theft feature.
Since November 2021, all new Hyundai vehicles come equipped with an engine immobilizer as standard, which provides a higher level of security against theft. In addition to the software upgrade, Hyundai is offering free steering wheel locks to law enforcement agencies, who will distribute these to owners or lessees of affected models.
For customers with 2011-2022 model-year vehicles that do not have engine immobilizers and cannot support the new software upgrade, Hyundai is in the process of finalizing a reimbursement program for the purchase of steering wheel locks. Details for this program will be shared with customers shortly.
To ensure that customers are aware of this new anti-theft measure, Hyundai will reach out through various communication channels, including mail, email, phone calls, and a dedicated website, guiding owners to their local dealerships for the software installation.
Hyundai’s latest initiative represents a significant effort to enhance vehicle security and respond to emerging threats in the automotive landscape. The anti-theft software upgrade exemplifies the company’s commitment to protecting its customers and staying ahead of evolving theft tactics.
Software Upgrade Details
The anti-theft software upgrade for affected Hyundai vehicles focuses on modifying specific vehicle control modules for those equipped with “turn-key-to-start” ignition systems. The update introduces an “ignition kill” feature that activates when the doors are locked with the key fob, preventing unauthorized engine starts.
This measure ensures that the vehicles cannot be started using the theft techniques popularized on social media. To deactivate the feature and start the vehicle, owners will need to unlock the doors with the key fob.
Communication and Reimbursement
Hyundai is notifying customers through multiple channels, including mail, email, phone outreach, and a dedicated website, to schedule the free software installation at authorized Hyundai dealerships. For those with non-upgradable vehicles, Hyundai will soon provide details on a reimbursement program for steering wheel locks.