Hyundai, Kia Release Software Update for TikTok Theft Challenges

Carmakers Hyundai and Kia released a software update for their customers to prevent an issue related o their security system. The update responded to a viral social media challenge in TikTok that resulted in the theft and many accidents.

Software Updates

The United States National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated around 3.8 million Hyundai and 4.5 million Kia vehicles would be eligible for a new security upgrade. According to their released statement, both carmakers developed theft deterrent software for vehicles without an immobilizer system.

NHTSA stated, "The software updates the theft alarm software logic to extend the length of the alarm sound from 30 seconds to one minute and requires the key to be in the ignition switch to turn the vehicle on," NHTSA stated. The update will include an anti-theft sticker, a longer alarm, and the need for a physical key when turning on the vehicle.

This will also alter specific control modules on patched vehicles equipped with the traditional turn-key-to-start ignition systems. Locking doors with the key fob will set the factory alarm to activate an ignition kill feature that will prevent the vehicle from starting when subjected to theft mode.

These challenges affected models like the 2017-2020 Elantra, 2015-2019 Sonata, and 2020-2021 Venue. Hyundai then released a statement that the owners of the mentioned vehicles above can visit a local dealership to install the anti-theft update starting February 14th. Some models will not be compatible with the upgrade offered, specifically vehicles without engine immobilizers.

Meanwhile, Kia is rolling out its free software updates in a phased approach as the company will begin to update vehicles later this month. By June, the car will be able to receive the full update after ensuing phases for a few months.

Interesting Engineering reported that both companies have been working with the United States authorities since November 2022 to provide more than 26,000 steering wheel locks to 77 law enforcement agencies in 12 states. NHTSA encouraged vehicle owners to contact local law enforcement to see if a wheel lock is available if they are interested.

TikTok Challenge

This move from Hyundai and Kia comes after a viral social media challenge in TikTok that resulted in fourteen reported crashes, eight fatalities, and a surge in car thefts nationwide. The "Kia Challenge" encouraged teenagers on social media to hot wire vehicles that lacked engine immobilizers using USB cords.

Based on a report from Engadget, car owners began suing the car manufacturers for lack of response regarding this matter. The class action stated that specific models of Kia and Hyundai were unsecured for car theft. The reported accidents are a sign for NHTSA to turn this matter into public safety.