How to Protect Your Hyundai from Theft

Protect Your Hyundai at Haddad Hyundai in Pittsfield, MA | Person wearing black jacket about to open car door

Propelled by trending videos on TikTok, Hyundai models have seen an unfortunate increase in thefts and theft attempts since early 2021. In some areas, police have noted thefts of Hyundai models rising by 4-6 times the previous annual average. These videos show bad actors how to easily steal a Hyundai vehicle, and are easy to follow and replicate.

Almost 9 million Hyundai models have been found to be vulnerable to this rash of thefts, including:

  • 2011–2022 Accent
  • 2011–2022 Elantra
  • 2013–2017 Elantra GT
  • 2013–2014 Elantra Coupe
  • 2011–2012 Elantra Touring
  • 2011–2014 Genesis Coupe
  • 2018–2022 Kona
  • 2020–2021 Palisade
  • 2011–2022 Santa Fe and Santa Fe XL
  • 2013–2018 Santa Fe Sport
  • 2011–2019 Sonata
  • 2011–2022 Tucson
  • 2012–2017, 2019–2021 Veloster
  • 2020–2021 Venue
  • 2011–2012 Veracruz

Mainly, it is the base trims of the individual models that are easy to target. The good news is, there are steps Hyundai has taken to address this, and there are further steps you can take as an owner.

What is Hyundai Doing to Stop Thefts?

The key step that Hyundai took to prevent these thefts and alleviate the impact on Hyundai owners was to develop anti-theft software for the affected vehicles. They moved quickly, and have made the software easily available at your participating Hyundai dealer for an immediate update!

Another thing Hyundai has done is offer a Compositor anti-theft security kit for $170. This aftermarket security kit is available at every Hyundai dealer, but also requires owners to foot the labor costs.

Hyundai has also worked with AAA to provide insurance to select drivers. Some Hyundai owners have had to deal with the loss of insurance, refusal of companies to cover them with a new vehicle, or raised prices. AAA has helped these owners out to keep insurance affordable

Finally, they have made steering locks available and have provided for reimbursement options for owners of Hyundai vehicles that cannot accommodate the necessary software upgrade. Reimbursement can be used to cover everything from steering locks to third-party and aftermarket security options that meet certain qualifications.

Protect Your Hyundai at Haddad Hyundai in Pittsfield, MA | Mechanic using computer tool to scan the system software of a vehicle
Protect Your Hyundai at Haddad Hyundai in Pittsfield, MA | Aerial view of parking lot with multiple color cars

 How Can I Protect My Hyundai from Theft?

While Hyundai has taken steps to prevent thefts of these vulnerable vehicles, you can take additional steps on your own to protect your Hyundai from theft.

  • Park in a Secure, Well-Lit Location: Thefts like to work in easy to reach, dark spots away from passers-by. Parking your Hyundai in a secure, well-lit, trafficked location that is difficult to get to, and where they may be recorded or otherwise observed, is a great way to avoid them trying in the first place.
  • Lock Your Doors: Some potential thieves will give up after trying the car doors and finding them locked. These are criminals looking for opportunity – they may just keep trying door handles hoping to get lucky.
  • Install an Audible Alarm System: An alarm system that alerts neighbors and draws attention will send potential thieves scattering when they realize that attention is being drawn to them.
  • Use a Visible Anti-Theft Device: An additional anti-theft device that thieves will have to surpass is effective – making sure it is visible is doubly so, as that will likely cause them to pass it by fully instead of breaking into it first.
  • Install a Vehicle Immobilizer System: These will prevent thieves from bypassing the ignition system. You can find some that will disable the flow of electricity or fuel to the engine.

These are great way to protect ANY vehicle from theft, so even if you don’t have a Hyundai you should take heed of them. Protect your Hyundai from theft, and protect yourself from that sinking feeling of finding your Hyundai gone. Investing a little bit more to secure your investment in your vehicle will ensure that your Hyundai will continue to serve you for years to come!

If you have questions or concerns about your vehicle please reach out to us at Haddad Hyundai if you are curious to see if your car is affected check your vin to see what Hyundai can do to help. Our service department will be happy to answer your questions.