Kia and Hyundai released a software update on Monday after a viral TikTok challenge taught users how to hack vehicles. But for now, it’s only available for a million determined vehicles, out of the 4 million cars that will eventually want the patch. .
It’s like the “Kia Challenge” dating back to at least May on TikTok, demonstrating how the “Kia Boys” use USB cables to connect cars. Owners temporarily understood the widespread theft and began suing automakers for lack of response. The demand for elegant action said some Kia and Hyundai car models lacked immobilizers, a non-unusual device that prevents car theft, making it easier to access, TechCrunch reported last September.
Car owners of affected models such as the 2017-2020 Elantra, 2015-2019 Sonata and 2020-2021 Venue can make a stop at a local dealership to install the anti-theft upgrade, Hyundai said in a statement. The updates come with an anti-theft decal to deter attacks, a longer alarm and the need for a physical key, rather than just a home button, to start the vehicle. Updates for other affected vehicles will be available through June, and you can find the full list on Hyundai’s website. Enable browser notifications to get the latest alerts from Engadget. You can turn off notifications at any time in your settings menu.
Meanwhile, Kia and Hyundai have provided about 26,000 guide wheel locks to vehicle owners to prevent theft, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The firm said, making it a matter of public safety.