Kia is issuing a new theft deterrent device for its vehicles that are not eligible for a recent security-focused software update it issued last year.
The deterrent comes in the form of an ignition cylinder protector.
The increased security measures result from the wave of thefts of Kia and Hyundai models that began with a TikTok trend in late 2021.
After years of dealing with customer backlash, lawsuits, and presumably many headaches surrounding the TikTok-famous Kia Boyz, Kia is issuing another theft deterrent for owners of its most easily stolen vehicles, an ignition cylinder protector. This isn't a universal fix, and it won't be given to everyone who owns one of the models at the center of the issue. Instead, it will go to those with vehicles that are not eligible for the recent security-focused software update the company issued last year.
The deterrent comes in the form of a free dealer-installed modification that became available on December 20. Kia will install an ignition cylinder protector, which it says helps to reinforce the ignition cylinder body. The manufacturer says the modification should also stop would-be thieves from removing the ignition cylinder protector and ignition cover in the same ways promoted by the TikTok trend.
According to a release from Kia, each vehicle that receives the modification will also get window decals to inform potential thieves of the fix. The new modification is available for models with a key-operated ignition system. That includes the 2011–2016 Forte, 2011–2021 Rio, 2014 Sedona, 2010–2021 Soul, and 2011–2016 Sportage.
The manufacturer also released a software update last year as a further security method. According to the company, dealers installed the software on more than 900,000 vehicles in 2023. In conjunction with local law enforcement, the company is also continuing to provide free steering wheel locks for owners of vehicles that are not eligible to receive the software update. Kia says it has distributed more than 325,000 locks and will continue to provide them as they are needed.