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Tag: kia

  • Millions of Hyundai and Kia owners can get free repairs from settlement over anti-theft technology

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    Millions of Hyundai and Kia owners can get free repairs under a settlement announced Tuesday by Minnesota’s attorney general, who led an effort by dozens of states that argued the vehicles weren’t equipped with proper anti-theft technology, leaving them vulnerable to thefts.

    The settlement comes after a rash of Hyundai and Kia thefts prompted nearly two dozen state attorneys general in 2023 to demand the automakers take action.

    In 2023, the Highway Loss Data Institute, a unit of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, found that Hyundai and Kia vehicles without “engine immobilizers,” an anti-theft device that were standard on other new cars at the time, had a vehicle theft claim rate of 2.18 per 1,000 insured vehicle years. The rest of the industry combined had a rate of 1.21. 

    Under the nationwide settlement, the companies will offer a free repair to all eligible vehicles at a cost that could top $500 million, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison said. Hyundai and Kia must also outfit all future vehicles sold in the U.S. with engine immobilizers, as well as pay up to $4.5 million of restitution to people whose vehicles were damaged by thieves.

    The settlement was reached by 35 states, including California, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. The vehicles eligible for fixes date as far back as 2011 and as recently as 2022. About 9 million eligible vehicles were sold nationwide.

    TikTok videos of thefts

    Beginning in 2021, thefts of Hyundai and Kia vehicles soared in part because videos posted to TikTok and other social media demonstrated how someone could steal a car with just a screwdriver and a USB cable. 

    Minneapolis reported an 836% increase in Hyundai and Kia thefts from 2021 to 2022, and Ellison announced an investigation into the automakers in early 2023.

    Ellison said the two companies installed engine immobilizers on cars sold in Mexico and Canada, but not widely in the U.S., leading to car thefts, crimes and crashes that injured and even killed people, including teenagers.

    “This crisis that we’re talking about today started in a boardroom, traveled through the Internet and ended up in tragic results when somebody stole those cars,” Ellison said at a news conference.

    He was joined by Twin Cities officials, a woman whose mother was killed when a stolen Kia crashed into her parents’ vehicle and a man whose car was stolen nine times — as recently as Monday night, and including seven times after a previous software fix.

    Under the settlement, Hyundai and Kia will install a zinc sleeve to stop would-be thieves from cracking open a vehicle’s ignition cylinder and starting the car.

    Eligible customers will have one year from the date of the companies’ notice to get the repair at an authorized dealership. The repairs are expected to be available from early 2026 through early 2027.

    In a statement sent to CBS News, Kia said the agreement is the latest step it has taken to help its customers and prevent theft.

    “These include the development and introduction of a free software security upgrade that has been found to significantly reduce theft rates, the distribution of hundreds of thousands of steering wheel locks to our customers at no cost, and the rollout of a zinc-sleeve hardware modification that combats this social media-inspired theft method by reinforcing the ignition cylinder body and preventing its removal through the technique that was made popular online,” the automaker said.

    Hyundai didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.

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  • Kia recalling quarter-million cars with fuel tanks that could melt, feds say

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    Kia is recalling roughly a quarter-million K5 sedans with a defect that could lead their fuel tanks to melt, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says.

    The cars, from the 2021-2024 model years, could have a damaged valve that lets air into their fuel tanks, causing the tanks to expand “and contact hot exhaust components, melting” the tanks, the agency says.

    “A melted fuel tank can leak, increasing the risk of a fire,” the agency points out.

    Kia dealers will replace the valves, the NHTSA says, adding that, “The fuel tank will be inspected for damage and replaced as necessary. All repairs will be performed free of charge.”

    Drivers may notice a popping sound from fuel tank area, their dashboard check engine lights lighting up, and/or the vehicles running rough if the fuel tank needs attention, the agency notes.

    Edited by

    Brian Dakss

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  • Hyundai AutoEver America breached: Know the risks to you

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    NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

    Hyundai AutoEver America discovered on March 1, 2025, that hackers had compromised its systems. Investigators found the intrusion began on February 22 and continued until March 2. 

    Hyundai AutoEver America (HAEA) provides IT services for Hyundai Motor America, including systems that support employee operations and certain connected-vehicle technologies. While the company works across Hyundai’s broader ecosystem, this incident did not involve customer or driver data.

    According to the statement provided to CyberGuy, the breach was limited to employment-related information tied to Hyundai AutoEver America and Hyundai Motor America. The company confirmed that about 2,000 current and former employees were notified of the incident in late October. HAEA said it immediately alerted law enforcement and hired outside cybersecurity experts to assess the damage.

    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
    Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter.

    Cybercriminals targeted Hyundai AutoEver America’s systems, exposing sensitive data. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    Why this Hyundai AutoEver America breach matters

    The exposed data reportedly includes names, Social Security numbers and driver’s license numbers, making this breach far more serious than one involving passwords alone. Experts warn that these details can be used for long-term identity theft and financial fraud. Because Social Security numbers cannot easily be changed, criminals have more time to create fake identities, open fraudulent accounts and launch targeted phishing attacks long after the initial breach.

    A red Hyundai automobile

    Experts warn that stolen Social Security and driver’s license information could be used for identity theft and fraud. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    Who was affected in the Hyundai AutoEver America data incident

    AEA manages select IT systems tied to Hyundai Motor America’s employee operations, along with broader technology functions for Hyundai and Genesis across North America. Its role includes supporting connected-vehicle infrastructure and dealership systems.

    According to the company, this incident was limited to employment-related data and primarily affected approximately 2,000 current and former employees of Hyundai AutoEver America and Hyundai Motor America. No customer information or Bluelink driver details were exposed. While some filings reference sensitive data types such as Social Security numbers or driver’s license information, the incident did not involve Hyundai customers or the millions of connected vehicles HAEA supports.

    Earlier reports suggested that 2.7 million individuals were affected, but Hyundai says that figure is unrelated to the breach. Instead, 2.7 million is the estimated number of connected vehicles that Hyundai AutoEver America helps support across North America. None of that consumer or vehicle data was accessed.

    GENESIS PREVIEWS G70 SPORTS SEDAN WITH NEW YORK CONCEPT

    Hyundai also clarified that the United States has about 850 Hyundai dealerships and emphasized that the scope of this incident was narrow and contained.

    We reached out to HAEA for a comment, and a representative for the company provided CyberGuy with this statement:

    “Hyundai AutoEver America, an IT vendor that manages certain Hyundai Motor America employee data systems, experienced an incident to that area of business that impacted employment-related data and primarily affected current and former employees of Hyundai AutoEver America and Hyundai Motor America. Approximately 2,000 primarily current and former employees were notified of the incident. The 2.7 million figure that is cited in many media articles has no relation to the actual security incident. The 2.7 million figure represents the alleged total number of connected vehicles that may be supported by Hyundai AutoEver America across North America. No Hyundai consumer data was exposed, and no Hyundai Motor America customer information or Bluelink driver data was compromised.”

    A blue Kia

    Scammers may now pose as company representatives, contacting people to steal more personal details. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    What you should do right now

    • Monitor your bank, credit card and vehicle-related accounts for suspicious activity.
    • Check for a notification letter from Hyundai AutoEver America or your car brand.
    • Enroll in the two years of complimentary credit monitoring offered by HAEA if you qualify.
    • Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all important accounts, including those tied to your vehicle.
    • Be cautious of emails, texts or calls claiming to be from Hyundai, Kia or Genesis. Always verify through official websites.

    Smart ways to stay safe after the Hyundai AutoEver America breach

    Whether you were directly affected or just want to stay alert, this breach is a reminder of how important it is to protect your personal information. Follow these practical steps to keep your data secure and reduce the risk of identity theft or scams.

    HYUNDAI TO RECALL GENESIS CARS TO FIX BRAKES

    1) Freeze or alert your credit

    Contact major credit bureaus — Experian, TransUnion and Equifax — to set a fraud alert or freeze. This helps block new accounts from being opened in your name.

    2) Protect your vehicle apps

    If you use apps tied to your vehicle, update passwords and enable multi-factor authentication. Avoid saving login details in unsecured places. Also, consider using a password manager, which securely stores and generates complex passwords, reducing the risk of password reuse. 

    Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our #1 password manager (see Cyberguy.com) pick includes a built-in breach scanner that checks whether your email address or passwords have appeared in known leaks. If you discover a match, immediately change any reused passwords and secure those accounts with new, unique credentials. 

    Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 at Cyberguy.com

    3) Watch for fake support messages

    Scammers may use news of the Hyundai AutoEver America breach as a way to contact Hyundai, Kia or Genesis owners, pretending to be from customer support or the dealership. They might claim to help verify your account, update your information or fix a security issue. Do not share personal details or click any links. Type the brand’s web address directly into your browser instead of clicking links in messages or emails. Always confirm through the official brand website or by calling the verified customer service number.

    4) Use strong antivirus protection

    Using strong antivirus software helps block phishing links, malware downloads and fake websites that might appear after a data breach. It can also scan your devices for hidden threats that may try to steal login data or personal files.

    The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe.

    Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

    5) Use a data removal service

    Data removal tools automatically find and delete your personal information from people-search and data-broker sites. These services reduce the chances that criminals will use leaked data to target you with phishing or social-engineering scams.

    While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice. They aren’t cheap, and neither is your privacy. These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites. It’s what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet. By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you.

    Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.

    Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com.

    6) Monitor your digital footprint

    Consider using identity monitoring services to track your personal information and detect possible misuse early.

    Identity Theft companies can monitor personal information like your Social Security number (SSN), phone number and email address, and alert you if it is being sold on the dark web or being used to open an account. They can also assist you in freezing your bank and credit card accounts to prevent further unauthorized use by criminals.

    See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft at Cyberguy.com.

    7) Keep your devices updated

    Regularly install security updates on your phone, laptop and smart car systems to reduce the risk of further attacks.

    8) Report suspicious activity the right way

    If you notice unusual account activity, fraudulent charges, or suspicious messages that appear tied to this breach, report it immediately. Start by contacting your bank or credit card provider to freeze or dispute any unauthorized transactions. Then, file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov, where you can create an official recovery plan. If you suspect a scam message or call, forward phishing emails to reportphishing@apwg.org and report fake texts to 7726 (SPAM).

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    Kurt’s key takeaways

    This incident highlights how much personal data is connected to modern cars and how vulnerable those systems can be. When your vehicle is linked to your identity, protecting your data becomes just as important as maintaining the car itself. Stay alert, use the tools available to safeguard your accounts and report any suspicious activity right away.

    Should companies like Hyundai AutoEver be doing more to keep customer data secure? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
    Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter.

    Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com.  All rights reserved.

    Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

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  • Federal tax credit for electric vehicles expires, but some state incentives remain

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    The expiration of the $7,500 federal tax credit for electric vehicles, initially passed by Democrats during the Biden administration, leaves consumers looking for other ways to save on their next purchase.Experts say the tax credit previously helped make electric vehicles more affordable, increasing interest in them. Aaron Bragman, the Detroit Bureau Chief at Cars.com, said automakers are now offering electric vehicles that are both profitable for them and affordable for consumers. Bragman noted, “The tax credit has been good for just about everybody. It’s really kind of fostered this whole nascent industry of electric vehicles. It’s gotten people a lot more familiar with them and how they work. It’s helped to build out the infrastructure, the charging infrastructure in the United States, because there’s demand for it. People want the fast charging infrastructure throughout the country, even that has really been starting to accelerate.”There may still be separate incentives available at state and local levels. “The affordable EV isn’t necessarily going away, and there are still some incentives out there,” Bragman said. “It just takes some research and some partnering with your local dealership to find out what those might be where you are.”Car companies such as Ford, Nissan, and Kia are offering deals on electric vehicles, and Tesla has recently changed its referral program to boost incentives for consumers.Keep watching for the latest from the Washington News Bureau:

    WASHINGTON —

    The expiration of the $7,500 federal tax credit for electric vehicles, initially passed by Democrats during the Biden administration, leaves consumers looking for other ways to save on their next purchase.

    Experts say the tax credit previously helped make electric vehicles more affordable, increasing interest in them.

    Aaron Bragman, the Detroit Bureau Chief at Cars.com, said automakers are now offering electric vehicles that are both profitable for them and affordable for consumers.

    Bragman noted, “The tax credit has been good for just about everybody. It’s really kind of fostered this whole nascent industry of electric vehicles. It’s gotten people a lot more familiar with them and how they work. It’s helped to build out the infrastructure, the charging infrastructure in the United States, because there’s demand for it. People want the fast charging infrastructure throughout the country, even that has really been starting to accelerate.”

    There may still be separate incentives available at state and local levels.

    “The affordable EV isn’t necessarily going away, and there are still some incentives out there,” Bragman said. “It just takes some research and some partnering with your local dealership to find out what those might be where you are.”

    Car companies such as Ford, Nissan, and Kia are offering deals on electric vehicles, and Tesla has recently changed its referral program to boost incentives for consumers.

    Keep watching for the latest from the Washington News Bureau:

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  • Kia EV9 review: Everything I want in a three-row family EV

    Kia EV9 review: Everything I want in a three-row family EV

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    Kia’s infotainment software is zippy and responsive, befitting the EV9’s modern displays. Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto support also makes it easy to connect your phone without fiddling for cables. The EV9 has a large wireless charging pad that should fit my iPhone 15 Pro Max just fine, and there’s enough room to squeeze in even bigger phones. It was a bit finicky to find the right wireless charging zone, so much so it made me wish Kia had implemented MagSafe or the newer Qi2 standard to keep my phone in place. I’d recommend always having a USB-C cable handy to take advantage of the EV9’s fast charging port.

    I was blown away by the GT-Line EV9’s 14-speaker Meridian system, which has just enough low-end oomph (thanks to an open-air subwoofer) for music and precise clarity for voices while listening to podcasts and audiobooks. Meridian says its DSP (digital sound processing) optimizes sound for the EV9’s cabin, and it also upmixes audio for 5.1 surround sound (or the equivalent with many more speakers).

    Kia EV9
    The EV9 is chock full of ambient lighting at night. (Photo by Devindra Hardawar/Engadget)

    The company’s Intelli-Q Equalization also transforms audio as the EV9’s in-cabin noise changes — instead of just raising or lowering the volume, it can emphasize specific frequency ranges to cover something like tire noise. In my testing, the Meridian system sounded great during both noisy highway driving and relaxed local trips. I definitely noticed when the Intelli-Q software kicked in, but it wasn’t unbearable like older cars that would just get louder on the highway. (You can also adjust the level of automatic sound equalization, and audio purists can disable it entirely.)

    The EV9’s second row captain’s chairs are just as comfortable as the front seats, but they have cushioned headrests instead of flexible mesh. As much as I like the second row, though, my family would likely be better off with the 7-seat arrangement from Light or Wind EV9 models. Those rely on a bench seat instead of two captain’s chairs, which my wife prefers when she needs to ride beside my two-year old.

    Kia EV9Kia EV9
    Photo by Devindra Hardawar/Engadget

    The EV9’s third row seats are comfortable as well, but as in many three-row SUVs, most adults won’t have much legroom to work with. I was able to squeeze in my 5-foot 8-inch frame, but I wouldn’t call the experience ideal. Anyone riding in the EV9’s last row will likely have to bargain with the person in front of them for some leg space. It’s also worth noting that the second row is immovable with child seats, since they lock seat belts down. So be sure to have the second row at a comfortable spot for rear passengers before hooking up child seats.

    Unfortunately, the US version of the EV9 won’t have second-row seats that can swivel 180-degrees to face the third row, because they don’t meet federal safety standards. That feature, which was a major part of Kia’s initial EV9 publicity blitz, will be available in South Korea and other countries.

    Kia EV9Kia EV9
    The EV9’s trunk space with the third row of seats folded down. (Photo by Devindra Hardawar/Engadget)

    For cargo, the EV9 sports 20.2 cubic feet behind its third row seats, and a more usable 43.5 cubic feet of storage when the third row is folded flat. If you push down the second row seats as well , you can fit in up to 81.7 cubic feet of gear. There’s a front trunk, or frunk, underneath the hood too, but it’s not as useful as other EVs. It can hold 3.2 cubic feet in the rear-wheel EV9, and an even more minuscule 1.8 cubic feet in the all-wheel drive models. In both cases, you have just enough room to hold Kia’s level 1 charging cable and a few other small items.

    Kia EV9Kia EV9
    Photo by Devindra Hardawar/Engadget

    On the road, the EV9 feels like a paradox. Similar to Rivian’s R1S, it’s a large SUV that’s surprisingly quick and nimble for its size. I was able to effortlessly glide through local traffic, launch quickly from stoplights and pass cars on the highway with ease. It wasn’t as easy to maneuver as my 2019 Volvo XC90, but I was still impressed since the EV9 is a far boxier car.

    After visiting my parent’s home, a 45-mile highway trip each way, the EV9 dropped from 80 percent charge to 52 percent. The AC was blasting heavily to combat Georgia’s heat and humidity, so that range felt about right. Just be aware that an EV’s estimated mileage can easily change depending on AC usage, external temperatures and how fast you’re driving.

    My wife, who hasn’t spent much time with EVs, noted that she didn’t feel like she was actually driving while behind the wheel of the EV9. On well-paved roads, it rides smoothly without much discernible road noise. My wife took a while to adjust to the EV9’s touchy brakes — it’s easy to slam the vehicle to a halt — but that’s something I’ve noticed on many EVs. You can use the EV9’s paddle shifters to adjust regenerative braking, which puts a bit of power back into the battery and doesn’t use the car’s traditional brake pads.

    In its most extreme form, the EV9’s regenerative braking allows for one-pedal driving, which allows you to completely stop the car simply by lifting your foot off of the accelerator. It’s an odd feature to get used if you’ve only ever driven gas cars, but it’s one of those things that EV owners learn to love quickly.

    Kia EV9Kia EV9

    Photo by Devindra Hardawar/Engadget

    It would be nice to see Kia offer adaptive suspension on the EV9 eventually, since you can feel the impact of rough roads and large bumps far too easily. For a car that scales up to near $80,000 — like our GT-line review unit — smarter and smoother suspension should at least be an option. Without it, the EV9 doesn’t feel nearly as luxurious as the Rivian R1S as driving conditions get worse.

    I didn’t have much trouble parking the EV9 in most lots, but backing out of spaces could sometimes be painful. That was particularly true in locations designed for smaller cars–I’m looking at you, Trader Joe’s. It took me six bouts of reversing and precarious turning to make it out of one spot at my local Regal Cinema. Even then, I could only leave in one direction, thanks to a slew of other large cars (including a particularly ugly Cybertruck) sitting around me.

    Thankfully, the EV9’s high-resolution cameras, proximity sensors and 360-degree overhead camera (on the GT Line only) helped me get out of tight spots. But even with those assists, it was still more annoying than the chunky Pacifica hybrid minivan I used to own.

    Kia EV9Kia EV9
    Photo by Devindra Hardawar/Engadget

    The Kia EV9 supports 210 kilowatt fast charging, and it’s compatible with both 400- and 800-volt chargers. Using the most powerful 800V hardware (which admittedly isn’t always easy to find), the EV9 can charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in 24 minutes. Using a local Electrify America charger, which clocked in at 150kW, the EV9 went from 21 percent of battery to 90 percent in 39 minutes.

    I don’t have a Level 2 charger at home, which could completely juice up the EV9 in six to seven hours, but I was able to plug it into a Level 1 charger using a standard 120V outlet overnight. That typically added an additional 10 to 15 percent of charge after eight to 10 hours. This level of charging may not be feasible for the long term, but it’s helpful if you don’t have the ability to add a Level 2 system at home, or if you’re traveling and need to add a bit more juice to reach the next fast charger.

    Kia EV9Kia EV9

    Photo by Devindra Hardawar/Engadget

    The Kia EV9 starts at $54,900 (not including destination charges) for the “Light” model, which includes rear-wheel drive, 215 horsepower and 230 miles of range. Leasing options start at $487 a month on average, with $2,000 due at signing for a 36-month term. These numbers could also change depending on the offers Kia makes available, as well as what local dealers are willing to charge.

    The “Light Long Range” model gets you a bigger battery with 304 miles of range for $59,200 and a slightly weaker 201hp motor. Higher-end trims are nearly twice as fast with 379hp all-wheel drive motors. That includes the $63,900 “Wind” EV9 and the $69,900 “Land” model, both of which have 280 miles of range.

    At the top end, there’s the flagship GT-Line model we reviewed, which starts at $73,900. It has a bit less range (270 miles) than mid-range choices, but it also has just about every feature Kia could throw in, including a 12-inch heads-up display on the windshield, 21-inch alloy wheels and the 14-speaker Meridien sound system.

    While its price escalates quickly, the EV9 is still a better deal than every other three-row EV on the market. The Rivian R1S starts at $75,900, and it currently leases for $699 a month with at least $8,500 in signing fees. The aging Tesla Model X starts at $77,990. Those cars are also both significantly faster than the EV9, and they offer better ride options like adaptive suspension.

    Kia EV9Kia EV9
    Photo by Devindra Hardawar/Engadget

    After eagerly awaiting the perfect family EV for years – following my time with the Rav4 hybrid, Sienna hybrid and the Chrysler Pacifica plug-in hybrid – I’m surprised it’s coming from Kia and not a more established brand like Toyota. The EV9 is spacious, more affordable than other EVs and it drives (mostly) like a dream. It charges quickly, and most models have more than enough range to deal with the occasional road trip. Simply put, the Kia EV9 is everything I’ve been looking for in a three-row family EV.

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    Devindra Hardawar

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  • Kia offering free upgrades to combat car thefts in Cleveland

    Kia offering free upgrades to combat car thefts in Cleveland

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    CLEVELAND (WJW) – As the Kia and Hyundai crime wave continues to roll through Northeast Ohio, one automaker is hosting a free community clinic to help cut car thefts in Cleveland.

    “It’s a start. I’m glad they are doing something,” said Cleveland Councilman Kris Harsh.

    Over the past couple years, Kia and Hyundai car thefts have skyrocketed in Northeast Ohio, particularly in Ward 13.

    “Old Brooklyn had one of the highest Kia and Hyundai theft rates in the entire city,” said Harsh.

    To address the problem, Kia USA is holding a free event this weekend at the Cleveland Aquarium where Kia owners can get anti-theft software upgrades.

    “We went to our research teams and found a way to deter theft is a software based solution that basically acts as an immobilizer in the vehicle,” said James Bell, a spokesman for Kia USA.

    Bell said Kia has already been doing upgrades at dealerships, but this gives drivers another option.

    “We are hoping to speak to people who own 2011 to 2021 Kias that use a steel key to start,” said Bell.

    “I think it’s important that we keep pushing these companies that are clearly sending defective vehicles into our neighborhood,” said Harsh, who authored legislation calling on the city to file a lawsuit against Kia and Hyundai last spring.

    The city of Parma also filed suit.

    Meanwhile, Bell said people do not need to make an appointment this weekend. Once the upgrade is done, drivers will get a window decal to discourage any theft.

    “Besides having the software done and a sticker on the window, we are happy to provide a steering wheel lock,” said Bell.

    “It’s still a continuing problem. We had one stolen the other day. Someone went inside their house and when they came out, their car was gone,” said Harsh.

    The event is from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.

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    Melissa Reid

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  • DC and Maryland top the nation in vehicle theft increases – WTOP News

    DC and Maryland top the nation in vehicle theft increases – WTOP News

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    In 2023, more than one million vehicles were stolen across the country. The District and Maryland each saw a drastic rise in thefts when compared to the previous year, with theft percentage increases of over 60%.

    Vehicle thefts have been surging nationwide, but D.C. and Maryland top the list in percentage increases, according to a new report from the National Insurance Crime Bureau, a nonprofit organization that tracks crime and fraud.

    In 2023, more than one million vehicles were stolen across the country. The District and Maryland each saw a drastic rise in thefts when compared to the previous year, with theft percentage increases of 64% and 63%, respectively.

    Coming in third was Connecticut, which had an increase of 33%.

    “Some of our community members have told us that their vehicle has been stolen more than once,” said Cpt. Lovita Bryant with Prince George’s County police.

    Bryant said a lot of the thefts stemmed from certain models of Hyundai and Kia vehicles being frequently targeted.

    “Last year and in 2022, it was definitely a big spike, but it seems to be calming down a little bit,” Bryant said.

    Specifically, there’s been a nationwide rise in thefts involving 2011-2022 models of Hyundai and Kia vehicles.

    The vehicles are not equipped with immobilizing anti-theft devices, which has allowed thieves to easily steal them using household supplies. Immobilizers are meant to prevent a vehicle from starting when someone tries to use a key or key fob that doesn’t match the car.

    The wave of Hyundai and Kia thefts began in 2021 and spread nationally, with a spike last summer fueled by instructional videos posted on social media.

    “The Hyundais and Kias have been hurting us pretty bad,” said Bryant. “It unfortunately went viral on TikTok a couple of years ago, so that is one of the biggest trends that we’ve seen.”

    Bryant said many of the thieves are just going for “joy rides,” as police tend to eventually recover the stolen vehicles.

    Police have urged owners of the vulnerable vehicles to get software upgrades whenever they’re available and to use anti-theft devices, such as steering wheel locks.

    “We’ve been working with Hyundai and Kia to get more vehicle wheel locks out there,” said Prince George’s County police Cpt. Koby Wiles. “We’ve been trying to provide knowledge to the public in as many ways possible.”

    Theft increases have been more pronounced in urban centers with densely populated areas, according to the NICB report.

    “I’m not surprised by it, especially with the higher population that we have around here,” Wiles said. “In the D.C. region, you’re going to see those higher numbers because we have a higher population.”

    Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.

    © 2024 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

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    Nick Iannelli

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  • Kia is recalling over 427,000 Tellurides that might roll away while parked

    Kia is recalling over 427,000 Tellurides that might roll away while parked

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    Kia is recalling more than 427,000 of its Telluride SUVs due to a defect that may cause the cars to roll away while they’re parked.

    According to documents published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the intermediate shaft and right front driveshaft of certain 2020-2024 Tellurides may not be fully engaged. Over time, this can lead to “unintended vehicle movement” while the cars are in park — increasing potential crash risks.

    Kia America decided to recall all 2020-2023 model year and select 2024 model year Tellurides earlier this month, NHTSA documents show. At the time, no injuries or crashes were reported.

    Improper assembly is suspected to be the cause of the shaft engagement problem — with the recall covering 2020-2024 Tellurides that were manufactured between Jan. 9, 2019 and Oct. 19, 2023. Kia America estimates that 1% have the defect.

    To remedy this issue, recall documents say, dealers will update the affected cars’ electronic parking brake software and replace any damaged intermediate shafts for free. Owners who already incurred repair expenses will also be reimbursed.

    In the meantime, drivers of the impacted Tellurides are instructed to manually engage the emergency brake before exiting the vehicle. Drivers can also confirm if their specific vehicle is included in this recall and find more information using the NHTSA site and/or Kia’s recall lookup platform.

    Owner notification letters are otherwise set to be mailed out on May 15, with dealer notification beginning a few days prior.

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  • Cleveland Auto Show: What’s new with Kia

    Cleveland Auto Show: What’s new with Kia

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    CLEVELAND (WJW) — Movement that inspires is on full display at the I-X Center.

    Pat Preston, the owner of Preston Kia, says the key to a good show is simple: show off what got you to the dance.

    “We try to show off some great colors of course and some great new products,” he said.

    Preston has been a part of the Cleveland Auto Show for over three decades, so it’s safe to say he knows what to display. This year, it’s all about their EV model.

    “It’s an all electric, 7-passenger seating sport utility and it’s beautiful. We have had long lines to test drive it,” added Preston.

    Overall, Kia has around 20 different vehicles showcased at the I-X Center.

    Preston says that is done by design.

    WJW photo

    “We need to show people that we are open to all forms of palpation,” he explained. “As dealers we need to show people what’s available to them and then they can make the best decision.”

    At Preston Kia, they have a lot to be proud of and they aren’t afraid to show it off.

    “We have a number of days left to go, we have next weekend so we are anxious for bigger and better crowds,” Preston said.

    Find out more about the Cleveland Auto Show right here.

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  • Michael B. Jordan Wrecks Ferrari In Collision With Parked Car! LOOK! – Perez Hilton

    Michael B. Jordan Wrecks Ferrari In Collision With Parked Car! LOOK! – Perez Hilton

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    Michael B. Jordan’s Saturday night was one for the books — for better or worse.

    TMZ reported early on Sunday morning that the Black Panther star crashed his luxury blue Ferrari into a parked Kia at around 11:30 p.m. on Saturday night in Hollywood.

    How scary!!

    The Los Angeles Police Department arrived at the scene not long after, and according to the outlet, passed on issuing the 36-year-old a field sobriety test, as they apparently found no signs that pointed to him being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

    Related: Nick Cannon Spends HOW MUCH Taking Kids To Disneyland Every Year?!

    Luckily, no injuries were reported, but the damage looks pretty bad. Take a look for yourself (below):

    That’s gnarly — and the Kia didn’t look much better, either.

    (c) MEGA/WENN

    Since substances reportedly weren’t involved, you may be wondering what exactly caused the crash… Well, according to the news org, the Creed star, who’s a well-known Ferrari enthusiast, declined to offer an explanation. Maybe he wants to speak with a lawyer first??

    The interaction apparently left off with the LAPD telling MBJ to fill out a police report online.

    What a wild ride! We’re sending support Michael’s way… Thank goodness he and everyone are okay! Thoughts, Perezcious readers? Let us know in the comments down below.

    [Images via MEGA/WENN]

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  • Kia and Hyundai recall 3.3 million cars, tell owners to park outside

    Kia and Hyundai recall 3.3 million cars, tell owners to park outside

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    Korean automakers Hyundai and Kia are recalling 3.3 million used vehicles because they can catch fire while parked or while driving due to issues with the antilock brake system. 

    Hyundai models being recalled include sedans such as the Accent, Azera, Elantra, Genesis Coupe and Sonata along with the Tuscon SUV. Recalled Kia models include its Optima and Soul sedans and Sportage SUV. The affected vehicles are from the model years 2010 to 2019.

    The antilock brake system in the vehicle could leak brake fluid and create an electrical short which could then increase the risk of an engine compartment fire, federal safety officials said. The automakers said an O-ring in the antilock brake motor shaft can lose sealing strength over time due to the presence of moisture, dirt and dissolved metals in the brake fluid, causing leaks. 

    Owners of these car models should park the vehicle outside and away from structures until repairs can be made, according to the recall announcement from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

    Hyundai reported 21 fires in the affected vehicles in the U.S., and another 22 “thermal incidents” including smoke, burning and melting of parts, according to recall documents. Kia reported 10 fires and melting incidents.

    Dealers will replace the antilock brake fuse at no cost to owners. Kia said in documents that it will send notification letters to owners starting Nov. 14. For Hyundai the date is Nov. 21.

    Hyundai said in a statement that owners can continue to drive the vehicles and that no crashes or injuries have been reported. Hyundai owners are advised to take their vehicle to a local dealership and have the brake system’s module fuse replaced. Kia is still working on a fix for its models. 

    “Why not fix the problem”?

    Michael Brooks, executive director of the nonprofit Center for Auto Safety, questioned why the automakers aren’t fixing leak problems and why they are waiting so long to send notify owners. The remedy is replacing one fuse with another, but brake fluid can still leak, potentially causing a safety problem, Brooks said.

    “Why not fix the problem?” he asked. “What you’re not doing here is fixing the O-ring and the leak that’s causing the problem in the first place. You’re combatting a symptom or part of the problem without actually fixing the underlying design issue.”

    Brooks also questioned why NHTSA is allowing the companies to only replace a fuse, and why owners aren’t being sent interim letters immediately warning them of a serious problem. 

    “You would think that you should be notifying those owners right now that they shouldn’t be parking in their garages or their house could catch fire,” he said.

    Which models are being recalled?

    The recalled vehicles are:

    Hyundai

    • 2012-2015 Accent
    • 2012-2015 Azera
    • 2011-2015 Elantra
    • 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe
    • 2014-2015 Equus
    • 2011-2015 Genesis Coupe
    • 2013-2015 Santa Fe
    • 2013 Santa Fe Sport
    • 2011-2015 Sonata HEV
    • 2010-2013 Tucson
    • 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell
    • 2012-2015 Veloster
    • 2010-2012 Veracruz 

    Kia

    • 2014-2016 Cadenza
    • 2011-2013 Forte/Forte Koup
    • 2015-2017 K900
    • 2010-2015 Optima
    • 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid
    • 2011-2017 Rio
    • 2010 Rondo
    • 2011-2014 Sorento
    • 2011-2013 Soul
    • 2010-2013 Sportage

    The antilock brake recall comes one month after the automakers also recalled 92,000 vehicles because an electronic controller in their oil pumps could overheat and cause a fire. That recall covers some 2023 and 2024 Hyundai Palisades, some 2023 Tucson, Sonata, Elantra and Konas as well as Kia’s 2023 Soul, Sportage and Seltos. 

    Rise in thefts

    Kia has also drawn unwanted attention this year over a surge in thefts linked to a TikTok challenge that urged people to hot-wire the vehicles using a screwdriver and a USB cable. The thefts have been linked to at least 14 reported crashes and eight fatalities, according to NHTSA. About 9 million vehicles have been impacted by the rash of thefts, including Hyundai Elantras and Sonatas as well as Kia Fortes and Souls.


    Hyundai and Kia agree to $200 million settlement in class-action lawsuit over vehicle thefts

    01:38

    The rise in thefts and accidents prompted attorneys general in 17 states to urge the federal government to recall millions of Kia and Hyundai vehicles. The automakers snubbed pleas for a recall and instead opted to provide free software updates aimed at thwarting thieves. Hyundai and Kia paid $200 million earlier this year to settle a class-action lawsuit from owners who had their vehicles stolen in the nationwide rash of car thefts.

    —The Associated Press contributed to this report.

    Khristopher J. Brooks

    Khristopher J. Brooks is a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch covering business, consumer and financial stories that range from economic inequality and housing issues to bankruptcies and the business of sports.

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  • Kia recalls 145,000 Sorentos due to rear-view camera problem

    Kia recalls 145,000 Sorentos due to rear-view camera problem

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    Korean automaker Kia has recalled roughly 145,000 Sorentos because mounting clips on the rear-view camera may break unexpectedly.

    A broken clip can cause the camera image not to appear on the car’s video display and increase the risk of a crash, Kia said in recall documents submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The recall covers 2022-2023 Sorento, Sorento Hybrid, and Sorento Plug-in Hybrids manufactured between September 2021 and July 31 of this year.

    Kia said in the documents that adding stiffening ribs around the housing of the mounting clips fixes the problem. The company said it plans to notify Sorento owners of the recall in late October. Owners can take their vehicle to a Kia dealership and have the camera housing replaced for free, the automaker said. 

    Anyone with questions about the recall can contact NHTSA at (888) 327-4236 or Kia at (800) 333-4542. The recall number is SC280. 

    The problem marks the second major recall for Kia this month. Last week, the automaker recalled about 320,000 Optimas and Rios from model years 2016-2018, including the Optima hybrids. Kia said in documents filed with NHTSA that the trunk latch base inside those vehicles could crack, potentially keeping the trunk from opening from the inside and trapping someone. 

    Kia and fellow Korean automaker Hyundai in August also recalled more than 91,000 vehicles because electrical components inside the oil pump assemblies may overheat, increasing the risk of a fire. Both companies advised customers to park affected vehicles “outside and away from structures” until recall repairs were complete. 

    Kia has also drawn unwanted attention this year over a surge in thefts linked to a TikTok challenge that urged people to hot-wire the vehicles using a screwdriver and a USB cable. The thefts have been linked to at least 14 reported crashes and eight fatalities, according to NHTSA. About 9 million vehicles have been impacted by the rash of thefts, including Hyundai Elantras and Sonatas as well as Kia Fortes and Souls.


    Is a TikTok challenge responsible for a deadly crash in Lodi?

    02:38

    The rise in thefts and accidents prompted attorneys general in 17 states to urge the federal government to recall millions of Kia and Hyundai vehicles. The automakers snubbed pleas for a recall and instead opted to provide free software updates aimed at thwarting thieves. Hyundai and Kia paid $200 million earlier this year to settle a class-action lawsuit from owners who had their vehicles stolen in the nationwide rash of car thefts.

    Khristopher J. Brooks

    Khristopher J. Brooks is a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch covering business, consumer and financial stories that range from economic inequality and housing issues to bankruptcies and the business of sports.

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  • Charger SRT Hellcat is 60 times more likely to be stolen than any other 2020-22 vehicle

    Charger SRT Hellcat is 60 times more likely to be stolen than any other 2020-22 vehicle

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    Despite being easier to steal, Kia vehicles are not car thieves’ number-one target, a new report shows. The unfortunate distinction belongs to the Charger SRT Hellcat, which is 60 times more likely to be stolen than any other car built between 2020 and 2022. 

    That’s according to the Highway Loss Data Institute’s list of the most-stolen vehicles for 2020-2022 models. Twenty-five Hellcat cars from model years 2020-22 had been reported stolen in insurance claims out of every 1,000 insured vehicle years, according to the report. By comparison, the most stolen car among 2017-19 model year vehicles, the Infiniti Q60, only had 2 theft claims for every 1,000 insured vehicle years. 

    “If you own a Hellcat, you better check your driveway,” Matt Moore HLDI senior vice president said in a statement on the institute’s website. “These numbers are unbelievable.”


    Interest rates on car loans spike in March

    03:28

    Also on HLDI’s list is the Kia Sportage, which notched the sixth-highest spot, ahead of the Land Rover Range Rover 4WD and Infiniti Q50 4WD. Other Kia models like the Sportage 4WD, Rio and Forte rounded out the ranking. 

    Thefts of Kia and Hyundai vehicles rose sharply across the U.S. over the past two years after a TikTok challenge instructing people how to steal the vehicles using a USB cord and a screwdriver went viral. 

    The cars’ vulnerability stemmed from the fact that from 2011 to 2022, South Korean automakers Kia and Hyundai opted not to equip their cars sold in the U.S. with “engine immobilizers,” making the cars easier to steal. The manufacturing flaw was at the center of a class-action lawsuit that the cars’ manufacturer settled for $200 million in May. 


    Average new car cost in U.S. up to $48,000, only one model selling for less than $20,000

    03:16

    Models with fewest theft claim

    HDLI assembled its ranking using data from vehicle theft claims made to insurance companies across the U.S. The data only accounts for whole-car theft claims, and excludes claims for stolen vehicle parts and stolen items found within vehicles.

    The study reveals that vehicle theft claims are rising overall. Other data also shows car thefts are surging. Vehicle thefts rose 59% across 30 U.S. from 2019 to 2022, an analysis from the Council on Criminal Justice shows.

    Electric vehicles where among the 20 models with the fewest claims, along with cars manufactured by General Motors. HLDI accounts for the lower theft frequency which it says is typical of EVs, to the likelihood of their being parked “overnight in well-lit and comparatively secure areas for charging.”

    View the complete lists of vehicles with the highest and lowest claim frequencies for whole-vehicle theft here.

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  • Hyundai, Kia recall over 90,000 vehicles over oil-pump fire risk

    Hyundai, Kia recall over 90,000 vehicles over oil-pump fire risk

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    Hyundai Motor and Kia have recalled more than 91,000 recently released U.S. vehicles because of a potential fire hazard in their newer models.

    The electrical components of the vehicles’ oil pump assemblies may overheat, increasing the risk of a fire, according to a recall notice posted Thursday by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

    Kia and Hyundai advised customers to park affected vehicles “outside and away from structures” until recall repairs are complete. 

    Recall affects new models

    The recall covers Hyundai’s 2023-2024 Palisade, 2023 Tucson, Sonata, Elantra, and Kona vehicles. Kia has recalled its 2023 Soul and Sportage cars, in addition to its 2023-2024 Seltos vehicles.

    The companies plan to notify owners of recalled car models of any potential defects by late September. Dealers will inspect and replace the defective electric oil pump controllers for free, as needed.

    Consumers with questions about the vehicle recalls can contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542, using reference number SC275, or Hyundai at 1-855-371-9460, using reference number 246. Car owners can also call the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) at 1-888-327-4236 for more information. 

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  • Major automakers to build new nationwide electric vehicle charging network

    Major automakers to build new nationwide electric vehicle charging network

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    Seven of the world’s largest automakers said Wednesday that they’re working together to build a new nationwide network of 30,000 electric vehicle charging stations, an effort to stoke already growing consumer demand for EVs.

    BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes and Stellantis said the first batch of their “high-powered charging” stations will be available next summer. EV owners have long complained about a shortage of places to charge their vehicle. The automakers said they hope the stations will “make zero-emission driving even more attractive for millions of customers.”

    The charging system would be public and open to all electric vehicle owners and have connectors for both Tesla’s North American Charging Standard plugs as well as the Combined Charging System plugs used by other automakers.

    Motorists remain concerned about finding a charging station, while also having question about electric cars’ range and how long it takes to reach full power, auto industry experts have told CBS MoneyWatch. Automakers will need to pay as much attention to adding chargers as they have to lowering prices, Jessica Caldwell, executive director of insights at Edmunds, said this week.

    The car manufacturers wouldn’t disclose financial details of the network or how long it will take to build all 30,000 stations. Automakers told the Associated Press that they will “work as equals to ensure the success of the joint venture.” 

    There are currently just under 8,700 direct-current, fast-charging stations in the U.S. and Canada, with nearly 36,000 charging plugs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Tesla, by far the market leader ins EVs, accounts for 2,050 of the stations across the U.S. and Canada. The new network is expected to have 10 to 20 charging plugs per station.


    Experts worry about heavy electric vehicles’ safety

    02:32

    The network is likely to boost electric vehicle sales in North America by helping ease drive concerns about long-distance travel, said Stephanie Brinley, an analyst with S&P Global Mobility.

    “It’s stopping them from even exploring what EV life is like,” she said. The announcement of the network “is giving them confidence that this is going to work out.”

    Bloomberg News Detroit Bureau Chief David Welch told CBS News that the automakers’ goals of selling more EVs are directly tied to how many chargers are available for drivers. 

    “The car companies have realized that if they’re going to get people to buy EVs, they really have to build up a network of chargers very aggressively, especially on the highways,” he said. “The big holdup for everyone buying an EV is they’re afraid they’ll be out on a road trip and they’ll run out of juice and be strained somewhere.”

    In their statement, the automakers said they would use renewable energy as much as possible to power the chargers, and they will be in convenient locations with canopies and amenities such as restrooms, food service and stores.

    In the U.S., consumers bought 557,000 electric cars in the first half of the year, accounting for 7.2% of all new vehicle sales. Most industry analysts predict continued growth in EV sales for the next decade or more.

    —The Associated Press contributed to this report.

    Khristopher J. Brooks

    Khristopher J. Brooks is a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch covering business, consumer and financial stories that range from economic inequality and housing issues to bankruptcies and the business of sports.

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  • New York City’s new tool to stop car thefts: Apple AirTags

    New York City’s new tool to stop car thefts: Apple AirTags

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    New York City is adding a new weapon to its crime-fighting arsenal: Apple AirTags. 

    At least some people are eligible to receive the free bluetooth-powered tracking devices to combat a spike in car thefts in the five boroughs, Mayor Eric Adams announced on Sunday. The city will distribute 500 of the devices, donated by the Association for a Better New York, to residents, including in the Bronx where car thefts rose 19.4% from this time last year, NYPD data shows. Citywide, the number of stolen vehicles has climbed from 3,756 to 4,184, up 11.4%, over that same time span.

    “It allows our officers to be more strategic while mitigating pursuits, keeping us safe and keeping the community safe,” NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell said of the AirTags. “Hopefully we recover your car undamaged, we take a bad guy off the streets, and you get a car back to conduct your business and it doesn’t impose on your life.”

    Car owners can stash the AirTags in unassuming places, like the car’s glove compartment or trunk. If a user’s vehicle is stolen, they can locate it in an app that tracks the user’s car in real time using a bluetooth signal.

    Car owners must notify the police if they suspect their vehicle is stolen. The NYPD will not have access to the location of cars tagged with the free devices, Mayor Adams noted. 

    “This is not a centralized tracking system where we are in charge of tracking someone’s car,” Adams said. 

    Still, some social media users expressed their discomfort over using the police-provided trackers. 

    “Sure Air Tag your Car for the POLICE,” one Twitter user wrote. “How about the police giv[ing] us GEOTAGs or track[ing] the car using your navigation system already installed in your car?”

    Auto thefts fueled by TikTok

    New York City auto thefts have reached a 16-year high, mirroring a nationwide uptick in carjackings, according to NYPD data. 

    A TikTok trend that encourages users to steal Kias and Hyundais seems to be driving the recent spike in car hijackings, Mayor Adams said. The “Kia Challenge” encourages would-be thieves to hijack Hyundai and Kia vehicles by using a USB cord to exploit a vulnerability in the cars’ designs. The challenge has racked up 5.3 billion views on TikTok. 

    NYPD officers recorded 104 Hyundai thefts and 99 Kia thefts last December, the NYPD reported. By comparison, just 12 Hyundais and 10 Kias were reported stolen in September of that same year. 

    Car thefts have reached their highest level nationwide since 2008, according to a November data analysis by the National Insurance Crime Bureau. Motor vehicle thefts across 30 major cities have increased by 59% from 2019 to 2022, according to an analysis by the Council on Criminal Justice (CCJ).

    The rise in thefts corresponds to the rising value of used vehicles and car parts, which surged due to a pandemic-driven shortage of new cars, according to a report from Deloitte. 

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  • Hyundai and Kia recall cars over fire risk

    Hyundai and Kia recall cars over fire risk

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    Hyundai and Kia recall cars over fire risk – CBS News


    Watch CBS News



    Hyundai and Kia are recalling more than 500,000 vehicles and urging owners to park them outside because of fire risks.

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  • Park these cars outside: Hyundai, Kia recall vehicles due to fire risks

    Park these cars outside: Hyundai, Kia recall vehicles due to fire risks

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    Hyundai and Kia are telling the owners of more than 571,000 SUVs and minivans in the U.S. to park them outdoors because the tow hitch harnesses can catch fire while they are parked or being driven.

    The affiliated Korean automakers are recalling the vehicles and warning people to park them away from structures until repairs are made.

    Affected Hyundai vehicles include the 2019 to 2023 Santa Fe, the 2021 to 2023 Santa Fe Hybrid, the 2022 and 2023 Santa Fe Plug-in hybrid and the 2022 and 2023 Santa Cruz. The only Kia affected is the Carnival minivan from 2022 and 2023. All have Hyundai or Kia tow hitch harnesses that came as original equipment or were installed by dealers.

    The Korean automakers say in documents posted Thursday by U.S. safety regulators that water can get into a circuit board on the hitches and cause a short circuit even if the ignitions are off.

    Hyundai has reports of one fire and five heat damage incidents with no injuries. Kia has no reports of fires or injuries.

    Dealers at first will remove the fuse and tow hitch computer module until a fix is available. Later they will install a new fuse and wire extension with an improved connector that’s waterproof. Owners will be notified starting May 16.

    Last year Hyundai recalled more than 245,000 2020 through 2022 Palisade SUVs for a similar problem.


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  • States say Hyundai and Kia aren’t doing enough to stop car thieves

    States say Hyundai and Kia aren’t doing enough to stop car thieves

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    Nearly two dozen state attorneys general are demanding that Hyundai and Kia take action to halt what the legal officials say is an “alarming” rash of thefts of the South Korean automakers’ vehicles.

    From 2011 to 2022, Hyundai and Kia opted not to equip their cars sold in the U.S. with “engine immobilizers,” an anti-theft device that the states say were standard on other new cars during that period.

    “Cars are often one of the largest purchases a family will ever make — and families shouldn’t have to worry that manufacturers are cutting corners that could put their purchase at risk,” California Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a statement. “Hyundai and Kia made a decision to forgo a standard safety feature that would help protect owners’ investments, and now their customers are paying the price. It’s time for Hyundai and Kia to take responsibility for their poor decision which is hurting American families and putting public safety at risk.”

    Insurance companies including Progressive and State Farm have stopped providing auto coverage for select Hyundai and Kia vehicle model years and trim levels in some states because thieves were targeting the cars. Bonta and 22 other state attorneys general are calling on the car makers to take “immediate action” to deter thefts.

    More theft claims than all other car brands combined

    The Highway Loss Data Institute, a unit of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, found in September that Hyundai and Kia vehicles without immobilizers had a vehicle theft claim rate of 2.18 per 1,000 insured vehicle years. The rest of the industry combined had a rate of 1.21. 

    In a letter, the attorneys general pressed Hyundai and Kia to take immediate action to correct this public safety issue. 

    Hyundai and Kia in February rolled out free anti-theft software updates for millions of vehicles. The changes extended the length of an alarm sound on the cars from 30 seconds to one minute and requires the key to be in the ignition switch to turn a vehicle on.

    In a statement, Kia told CBS MoneyWatch on Monday that it has contacted roughly 1.1 million drivers to inform them of the software upgrade and that it will notify an additional 2 million by the end of March. Dealerships say that installing the tech takes under an hour, the company added.

    Kia said it has taken other steps to cut down on thefts, including providing some 23,000 steering-wheel locks to over 120 U.S. law enforcement agencies for them to distribute free of charge and launching a website where drivers can use their VIN to check if a vehicle is eligible for the new software.

    “We are also in contact with major insurance carriers so they are aware of the actions we have taken, and we are actively working with them to ensure our customers have access to quality and comprehensive coverage,” Kia said.

    According to the states, the software upgrades won’t be available for most Hyundai and Kia owners until June, while some drivers with vehicles made between 2011 and 2022 cannot use the software.

    Hyundai also emphasized its own free software upgrade to deter car thieves, noting in a statement that it has contacted more than 1 million motorists. The company is also reimbursing eligible customers for the purchase of a steering-wheel lock. 

    TikTok “challenge” linked to deaths

    The vulnerability of some Hyundai and Kia vehicles emerged in TikTok videos that show how to steal the cars using a USB cord and a screwdriver. The thefts are linked to at least 14 reported crashes and eight fatalities, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

    In Los Angeles, thefts of Hyundai and Kia cars surged by 85% in 2022 and accounted for roughly 20% of stolen cars in the city, Bonta’s office said.

    Along with California, the states that signed the AG letter to the car makers are Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington and Wisconsin, along with the District of Columbia.

    Alain Sherter

    Alain Sherter covers business and economic affairs for CBSNews.com.

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  • State Farm says it has stopped insuring some Kia, Hyundai vehicles

    State Farm says it has stopped insuring some Kia, Hyundai vehicles

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    MPD Chief Brian O’Hara says theft of Kias and Hyundais up 900% this year


    MPD Chief Brian O’Hara says theft of Kias and Hyundais up 900% this year

    06:36

    State Farm said it has temporarily stopped providing new auto insurance policies for some model years and trim levels of Hyundai and Kia vehicles in some states because of an increase in thefts for those cars. 

    “This is a serious problem impacting our customers and the entire auto insurance industry,” a State Farm spokesperson said in an email to CBS MoneyWatch. 

    State Farm didn’t specify which types of Hyundai and Kia vehicles are affected, nor in which states it has suspended new insurance policies for the cars. But the decision comes after the Highway Loss Data Institute found that theft claims for 2015-2019 Hyundai and Kia vehicles were almost twice as high as compared with all other automakers. 

    The reason for the higher theft claims is a lack of electronic immobilizers in some Hyundai and Kia vehicles that would otherwise prevent thieves from breaking in and bypassing the ignition, the Highway Loss Data Institute said. Electronic immobilizers are standard on almost all vehicles from those years made by other automakers, it added.

    “We take seriously our responsibility to manage risk and the impact of excess claim costs on all our customers,” State Farm said in its statement. “In this case, it became necessary to take action to protect our policyholders and our business.”

    Progressive puts brakes on new policies

    Progressive has also stopped writing new policies on some Hyundai and Kia cars, CBS station KDKA reported. Progressive didn’t immediately return a request for comment from CBS MoneyWatch. 

    In an email to CBS MoneyWatch, Hyundai said it “regrets this decision by insurers and its impact on select Hyundai vehicle owners and lessees, which we anticipate will be temporary.”

    “Engine immobilizers are now standard on all Hyundai vehicles produced as of November 2021 — and have long been standard equipment on all Hyundai vehicles with push-button ignitions,” the statement said.

    The carmaker added that it is planning a software update next month that will help affected vehicles, and that it is also providing free steering wheel locks to some law enforcement agencies to distribute to local residents who own models that are impacted. Owners can also bring their cars to local Hyundai dealers to purchase and install a customized security kit, it added.


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