The Rise of Car Theft: How TikTok Videos Expose Vulnerabilities in Kia and Hyundai Models

The Rise of Car Theft: How TikTok Videos Expose Vulnerabilities in Kia and Hyundai Models by CarHelpOut Mobile Mechanic Auto Car Repair and certified pre buy vehicle inspection checkup service shop call the number below for a local automotive technician expert near me who will come or travel to you, at home, house, apartment, condo, job, office business or any local parking lot to fix your vehicle onsite as emergency roadside assistance.

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A viral TikTok video has led to a surge in car thefts, targeting vulnerable Kia and Hyundai models without electronic immobilizers.

In late 2023, Morgan Goldwich woke up to a text from her roommate informing her that her 2015 Kia Optima was missing. What she initially assumed was a towing incident turned out to be a case of car theft, fueled by a viral TikTok trend known as the “Kia Challenge.” This trend, which emerged in 2021, revealed how thieves could hijack vulnerable Kias and Hyundais using just a USB cord. The lack of electronic immobilizers in certain models manufactured between 2011 and 2021 for Kias, and 2015 and 2021 for Hyundais, made these cars easy targets. The widespread popularity of these videos led to a 1000% increase in thefts of these vehicles since 2020, prompting insurance companies to take notice and even refuse coverage for these models.

The Vulnerability of Kia and Hyundai Models

The TikTok videos showcased the alarming simplicity of stealing these cars. By smashing a window, unscrewing the steering column, and inserting a USB into the ignition, thieves could drive off without needing the unique chip in the key required by electronic immobilizers. Despite TikTok’s efforts to remove these videos, their impact spread rapidly, resulting in a surge in car thefts. Lawsuits have been filed, and the problem persists despite efforts to address the issue.

Insurance Companies Respond

The increase in car thefts has prompted insurance companies to reassess their coverage policies. State Farm, for instance, has stopped insuring Kias and Hyundais in areas prone to theft. This decision was influenced by the high rates of car theft in Colorado, where Kias and Hyundais accounted for 30% of all thefts in Colorado Springs. Other insurance agencies have also denied coverage for these models, and some even exploit loopholes to deny theft claims if the cars were not processed for fingerprints.

Protecting Against Car Theft

While social media and individual car owners have been criticized for the rise in car thefts, the primary responsibility lies with Kia and Hyundai. The absence of electronic immobilizers in their manufacturing process has left these models vulnerable. To mitigate the issue, both companies are offering free software updates to affected owners. Additionally, law enforcement agencies provide free steering wheel locks, and Hyundai owners can purchase customized security kits from their local dealers. Taking personal precautions, such as parking in a garage or in front of another car, installing additional security cameras, and being vigilant, can also help deter thieves.

What are the most common services offered by our mobile mechanic business at average price cost?

At Mobile Mechanic Memphis business, let our professional licensed and insured certified technicians put their knowledge and years of experienced to provide you with comprehensive computer diagnostic technology system to find the problem and tell you which parts need to be repaired or replaced at an affordable cost, including, but not limited to:

* Check the service engine Light
* Test the battery, starter, and alternator
* Test the fuel pump pressure
* Test ignition coils or wires for current
* Disc and drum brake job
* Spark plugs, wires, ignition coil replacement
* Transmission fluid, filter and gasket change
* Brake master cylinder replacement
* Power Steering hose replacement
* Radiator flushes
* Overheating Radiator replacement
* Alternator replacement
* Starter replacement
* Vehicles 1994 and up Freon recharge
* Fuel pump replacement
* Oxygen sensor replacement
* Water pump replacement
* Engine Belt replacement
* Differential gasket and gear oil change
* Upper and lower Ball-joint replacement
* Thermostat and radiator hose replacement
* Valve cover gasket replacement
* Mass airflow sensor replacement
* Belt tensioner and pulley replacement
* Shock/strut replacement
* Strut spring replacement
* Lower and Upper control arm replacement
* Coolant temperature sensor replacement
* Tie rod end replacement
* Stabilizer bar replacement
* Replace brake rotors
* Fuel injector replacement
* Motor mount and transmission mount replacement
* Distributor cap and rotor replacement
* Replace wheel cylinder
* Replace charcoal canister
* Check and replace fuses
* Replace brake booster and wheel alignment

* Battery Replacement
* Replace any engine sensor
* Replace fuel pressure regulator
* Replace fuel rail
* Replace engine fan assembly or engine fan motor
* Replace CV Axles
* Replace Ignition switch
* Replace windshield washer pump
* Replace power steering pump
* Wheel hub assembly or wheel bearing replacement
* EGR valve Replacement
* Fuel tank replacement
* PCV valve Replacement
* I do many other repairs

Conclusion: The rise in car thefts, fueled by viral TikTok videos, has exposed the vulnerabilities of certain Kia and Hyundai models. The lack of electronic immobilizers in these vehicles has made them easy targets for thieves. Insurance companies have responded by refusing coverage for these models, leaving owners to face the financial burden of theft and repairs. While efforts are being made to address the issue, the ultimate solution lies in the manufacturers implementing stronger security measures. In the meantime, car owners can take precautions to protect their vehicles and themselves from becoming victims of this alarming trend.

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We are open 7 days a week, including weekends, Saturday, Sunday and holidays, sometimes hours, but charges might be different than regular hours and sometimes we provide 24-hour emergency auto car service on the basis of repairs. As long as the part stores like AutoZone, AdvanceAutoParts, Oreily’s or Napa are open. You never know until you give us a call now for the best affordable automotive shop on wheels nearest in South, West, North, East of your area.

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