Car thefts for Hyundai and Kia surge 10-fold in 3 years

Data from the US Highway Loss Data Institute reveals that in the first half of 2020, approximately 1 car was stolen for every 1,000 insured Hyundai and Kia vehicles. This theft rate is still relatively average compared to other car brands.

However, by the first half of 2023, the theft rate for these two brands has risen to 11.2 per 1,000. In contrast, the theft rates for all other car brands have remained constant.

Furthermore, in the first half of 2023, the number of theft-related complaints for Hyundai and Kia cars is 7 times higher compared to other manufacturers.

The surge in car thefts can be attributed to several TikTok videos that demonstrated techniques for unlocking and stealing Hyundai and Kia cars manufactured between 2011 and 2021. As a result, these models have become prime targets for thieves.

The highest concentration of car thefts in the US occurs in Delaware, New York, Washington, and, notably, Maryland.

In an effort to combat this issue, Hyundai and Kia have previously released software updates aimed at preventing car theft. They have also introduced measures such as steering wheel locks for vehicle owners. Unfortunately, these solutions have proven ineffective as the number of car thefts continues to rise.

This problem has become so prevalent that certain auto insurance companies in specific markets have started to deny coverage for older Hyundai and Kia models.

TH (Tuoitrethudo)