Kia and Hyundai Theft Risk to Persist Through 2050

Los Angeles owners of 2011-2022 models should assess security risks for their vehicles as theft trends continue.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Auto Parts

Kia and Hyundai Theft Risk to Persist Through 2050

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UCLA researchers predict that the theft of specific Kia and Hyundai models lacking engine immobilizers will persist in Los Angeles through 2050. These vulnerabilities, which affected 20 car models produced between 2011 and 2022, have been the subject of a nationwide surge in thefts since 2020.

Why it matters

The lack of engine immobilizers in these vehicles leaves them susceptible to low-skilled theft by individuals who can bypass ignition systems using simple tools like USB cables. As these vehicles depreciate, theft patterns have increasingly shifted into less affluent neighborhoods across the city.

UCLA researchers identified 20 Kia and Hyundai car models produced between 2011 and 2022 that lack engine immobilizers. This follows a 2025 class action lawsuit across 36 states, which now mandates the inclusion of such security technology in all future production vehicles.

The players

Kia

An automotive manufacturer that faced significant scrutiny and litigation for failing to include immobilizers in numerous models.

Hyundai

An automotive manufacturer that produced millions of vehicles without engine immobilizers, leading to a spike in vehicle thefts.

UCLA

A public research university whose researchers recently conducted a study on long-term vehicle theft patterns.

The details

Thieves gain unauthorized access by dismantling the steering wheel casing and using a USB cable to manipulate the ignition switch. Viral social media videos popularized these techniques, allowing individuals with minimal mechanical knowledge to bypass traditional key-start security. While newer vehicles are shifting toward better protection, older units produced during the 2011 to 2022 window remain highly vulnerable to this method of entry.

1992: Toyota began including engine immobilizers in Camry models.
2001: Honda began including engine immobilizers in Civic models.
2011-2022: Kia and Hyundai manufactured 20 car models without engine immobilizers.
2020: A nationwide surge in the theft of these specific Kia and Hyundai models began.
2025: Kia and Hyundai settled a 36-state class action lawsuit regarding their anti-theft technology.

The Home Front

This ongoing security issue reflects a stark departure from the industry standards established by manufacturers like Toyota and Honda decades ago. The findings underscore a prolonged challenge for vehicle owners that persists even after the legal remedies established in the 2025 class action lawsuit.

Owners of Kia and Hyundai models from 2011 to 2022 should confirm if their specific vehicle is equipped with an engine immobilizer by contacting their dealership. If your model is vulnerable, consider consulting a licensed professional about aftermarket security upgrades or physical anti-theft devices for your steering wheel.

The takeaway

Vehicle owners should be aware that security vulnerabilities in these specific models may persist for many years. Always store your registration in a safe place and consider using a visible steering wheel lock to deter theft until a permanent security solution is implemented.