Kia and Hyundai Settle Lawsuit Over Vehicles Vulnerable to Theft
The automotive brands Kia and Hyundai have reached an agreement to resolve a class-action lawsuit accusing them of selling vehicles without a basic engine immobilizer system. This omission, in models produced between 2011 and 2022, facilitated a wave of thefts that went viral on social media. 🚗🔓
Details of the Repair Agreement
The pact, which still needs final approval from a judge, establishes a plan to address the security issue. The core of the solution is to install a software patch free of charge in millions of vehicles. For models where this update is not technically viable, the companies will provide reimbursement so owners can acquire an alarm system with immobilizer. The goal is to rectify a design vulnerability that should never have existed.
Compensations for Affected Parties:- Pay insurance deductibles to owners whose vehicles were stolen or damaged.
- Cover other costs for property damage resulting from a theft attempt.
- Reimburse the purchase of alternative security devices for models not compatible with the software.
A reminder that sometimes the most effective technological solution is the one that should have been installed from the beginning.
How the Security Update Works
The software corrects the vehicle's ignition system logic. Now, for the engine to start, it is essential that the original key is present, blocking the popular USB cable method. Additionally, it integrates deterrent measures: if someone forces the lock, a sound alarm will activate for 60 seconds, and the car will immobilize if they try to move it without the correct key. 🔑⚠️
Key Features of the Patch:- Modifies the startup protocol to require the coded key.
- Activates an alarm for unauthorized lock tampering.
- Immobilizes the vehicle if attempted to drive without proper authentication.
Consequences of an Internet Challenge
While the "Kia Boyz" phenomenon gained notoriety on platforms like TikTok, real owners faced higher insurance premiums and the inability to park with peace of mind. This agreement not only seeks to repair the cars but also to mitigate the financial impact that consumers endured for years due to a missing security component. The brands already began deploying this software in 2023, but the agreement formalizes and expands the process to reach all affected vehicles.