Hyundai plans to conduct software-upgrade workshops across the United States for cars that have been targeted by thieves.


Hyundai announced on Wednesday that they will establish “mobile clinics” at five locations in the United States. These clinics will offer anti-theft software upgrades for cars that have become a popular target for thieves due to a technique that has gained popularity on TikTok and other social media platforms.

The car company from South Korea will host workshops in New York City, Chicago, Minneapolis, St. Paul, Minnesota, and Rochester, New York. These workshops will take place over two to three days on or near weekends from October 28 to November 18.

Hyundai announced its plans to assist with one-day regional clinics organized by dealerships before 2023 concludes, but did not specify the locations or dates.

The automaker has identified several affected vehicles, including the Accent from 2018-2022, Elantra from 2011-2022, Elantra GT from 2013-2020, Genesis Coupe from 2013-2014, Kona from 2018-2022, Palisade from 2020-2021, Santa Fe from 2013-2022, Santa Fe Sport from 2013-2018, Santa Fe XL from 2019, Sonata from 2011-2019, Tucson from 2011-2022, Veloster from 2012-2017 and 2019-2021, and Venue from 2020-2021.

Theft rates for the affected cars significantly increased once thieves realized that these models did not have engine immobilizers, a common anti-theft feature found in other vehicles.

Source: wral.com