At the height of the Kia Boys chaos, some owners stopped driving their own cars at night. Insurance claims piled up, frustration boiled over, and faith in the brand took a hit. Now the numbers show a 64% drop in total-loss thefts, and the fix didn’t even require new hardware.

The Kia Boys drove theft rates sky high

As of 2011, just 17% of Hyundai and Kia vehicles came with theft-prevention technology known as an electronic engine immobilizer. By contrast, 92% of vehicles sold that year included the feature. By 2022, thieves had caught on.

TikTok users calling themselves the “Kia Boys” demonstrated how to steal certain Hyundai and Kia models. They showed how to knock out the key tumbler and use the rectangular end of a USB cable to turn the ignition switch inside. They then launched the so-called “Kia Challenge,” urging others to steal the cars, film reckless stunts, and abandon the vehicles. The result was a nightmare few years for owners of base-model Hyundais and Kias.

For example, Tess Koppelman of Kansas City had her Kia stolen twice. She said, “I don’t drive that car anywhere anymore unless it’s daylight and in the suburbs.”

Why the software update actually works

We’ve previously reported that the automaker responded with a software update. The system prevents the car from starting unless the owner’s key is in the ignition. It does not work for vehicles with push-button start. However, most base trims that lacked engine immobilizers used traditional keys.

Matt Moore, senior vice president of the Highway Loss Data Institute, said, “The companies’ solution is extremely effective.”

By the end of 2023, the automaker had installed the updated software on 30% of eligible Hyundai and Kia vehicles. Dealers also added window stickers warning thieves not to target those cars.

According to the HLDI, owners of Hyundais and Kias with the software update are 53% less likely to file an insurance claim for a break-in, recovered theft, or total-loss theft. Total-loss thefts specifically have fallen by 64%.

Moore added, “If you own a Hyundai or Kia vehicle without an electronic immobilizer, you should call your local dealer about getting the software upgrade today.”