Kia and Hyundai release software update due to TikTok car theft challenge

[Jan]

TikTok car theft challenge forces Kia and Hyundai software update

Korean carmakers Hyundai and Kia have started offering free anti-theft software updates for 8.3 million vehicles targeted by thieves inspired by a viral challenge on social media app TikTok.

The US National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) provided details about the programmes in a statement on Tuesday.

 

[33milano]

Maybe those stickers will be effective no matter what make of vehicle you put them on.

 

[Rouxenator]

 

[Jet-Fighter7700]

too little too late,
just like the Hilux with the keyless go systems in South africa.

 

[FiestaST]

Lekker random le bump.

I’m Pro-necro as you know.

 

[pstation]

Was this ever even a problem in SA? I'm from Chicago and if you left your car parked on the street and it was a Kia it was simply guaranteed to be stolen.

 

[NR7]

too little too late,
just like the Hilux with the keyless go systems in South africa.

Every vehicle with smart keyless entry/ignition.

Won't park at places without my keys in a faraday pouch.

 

[epah]

Was this ever even a problem in SA? I'm from Chicago and if you left your car parked on the street and it was a Kia it was simply guaranteed to be stolen.

No. Never a problem in SA. One thing I do appreciate about South African criminals is they do have good taste and they only steal great cars ..

No one is going to risk getting caught over some “north” Korean Jalopy here.

 

[NR7]

Was this ever even a problem in SA? I'm from Chicago and if you left your car parked on the street and it was a Kia it was simply guaranteed to be stolen.

Kia/Hyundai knew about SA's criminal problem already so they made sure every car sold in SA had an immobilizer.
I guess they thought they could cut costs by leaving out the immobilizer in first world countries.