Nashville Experiences Alarming Rise in Hyundai and Kia Vehicle Thefts

Nashville Faces Surge in Hyundai and Kia Vehicle Thefts

In the lively city of Nashville, car thefts, particularly of Hyundai and Kia vehicles, have taken a troubling turn. In 2023, the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County reported an alarming statistic: over 1,700 thefts of these vehicles happened last year alone. Surprisingly, these two brands made up nearly 33 percent of all car thefts in the area.

What’s Driving the Surge?

The heart of the issue, as detailed in a recent lawsuit, stems from claimed defects in specific models. The lawsuit suggests that these auto manufacturers consciously decided to skimp on anti-theft technology in an effort to cut costs. With the rise of social media, particularly videos on TikTok showing how to steal certain Hyundai and Kia models, a wave of thefts hit Middle Tennessee. It’s unfortunate that the convenience of sharing information has led to real-world consequences for many car owners.

The lawsuit underscores a major concern: according to the legal filing, the decision by these car manufacturers not to implement standard anti-theft features has placed a significant burden on cities and counties across the nation. Local law enforcement agencies are now engaged in a battle to combat skyrocketing theft rates, often at the expense of public safety and resources

A Response from Carmakers

So, what are Hyundai and Kia doing about this situation? Both companies have taken measures to address the growing problem. Hyundai Motor America issued a statement reassuring customers that they are making strides to assist those impacted by these thefts. Their actions include offering a no-cost software upgrade aimed at preventing the methods of theft made popular by social media. Additionally, for models that can’t accommodate the software update, they’re providing ignition cylinder protectors at no cost.

Hyundai claims that they have provided these anti-theft solutions to more than 1.4 million affected vehicles. They’ve even set up a dedicated website to guide customers through the process of securing their vehicles.

Kia is also stepping up, urging owners to take advantage of a software upgrade rolled out over 20 months ago. This upgrade is designed to limit the ignition operation of vehicles locked without the proper key. Over 1.2 million Kia vehicles across the nation have already received this essential upgrade. To further enhance security, Kia has distributed over 226,000 free steering wheel locks, which act as an effective deterrent against theft.

Looking Forward

The future seems hopeful as both companies continue to collaborate with local law enforcement, aiming to curb car thefts. As of now, they are standing firm in the face of the ongoing lawsuits, claiming that these legal actions lack merit and should be dismissed. Both manufacturers emphasize that the models in question meet federal safety standards regarding theft protection.

With communities working hand in hand with these companies and law enforcement, there’s a collective hope that solutions can be found to reduce the alarming theft rates and restore peace of mind to car owners.

The Bottom Line

Nashville is facing a critical moment in addressing this surge of vehicle thefts. With concerted efforts from the city, local police, and Hyundai and Kia, it seems there’s a path forward. However, it’s crucial for vehicle owners to stay informed about the available upgrades and preventive measures to protect their prized possessions.

In the meantime, let’s hope for safer streets in Nashville, where everyone can feel secure going about their daily lives without the fear of losing their vehicle.