Kia Auto Thefts

In recent years, Kia vehicles have become a target for car thieves due to their popularity and the ease of stealing them. According to a report by the National Insurance Crime Bureau, Kia vehicles were among the top ten most stolen vehicles in the United States in 2020. However, Kia Motors has taken action to prevent such thefts with their Kia Prevention Update.

The Kia Prevention Update is a software update that aims to prevent theft by enhancing the security of the keyless entry system. This update provides an additional layer of protection against thieves who use devices to hack into the keyless entry system and steal the car. It does this by disabling the keyless entry system when the car is parked for an extended period, thereby preventing thieves from accessing the vehicle.

This software update is available for select Kia vehicles, including the 2018-2021 Kia Optima, 2019-2021 Kia Sorento, and 2020-2021 Kia Soul. Kia owners can check if their vehicle is eligible for the update by visiting their local Kia dealer or contacting Kia customer service.

While the Kia Prevention Update is a step in the right direction, it’s important to note that it is not a foolproof solution to car theft. Thieves can still use traditional methods like smashing windows or hotwiring the car to steal it. Therefore, it’s crucial for Kia owners to take additional precautions to protect their vehicles.

One simple step Kia owners can take to prevent theft is to keep their keys in a safe and secure location. Thieves can use signal amplifiers to amplify the signal from the key fob, even if it’s inside the owner’s home, and unlock the car. By keeping the keys in a metal container or a Faraday bag, owners can prevent this type of theft.

Another preventative measure Kia owners can take is to install additional security devices such as steering wheel locks or GPS trackers. These devices make it more difficult for thieves to steal the car and increase the chances of recovering it if it is stolen.

In conclusion, the Kia Prevention Update is a positive step towards preventing car thefts, but it is not a foolproof solution. Kia owners must take additional steps to protect their vehicles and prevent theft. By being vigilant and taking precautions, Kia owners can reduce the risk of their car being stolen and enjoy their Kia with peace of mind.