- Recent social media trends involve breaking into Kias and stealing them by hot-wiring the cars.
- To counteract all the recent Kia vehicle thefts, Kia auto makers have added features in recent models that makes it more difficult for someone to break into and steal a Kia vehicle–regardless of model.
- Find new Kia’s for sale that have these preventative measures at Lawton Kia in Oklahoma.
When you purchase a vehicle for yourself it is a very serious decision. Whether your family is large or small, the same important decisions are considered when purchasing a new car. Price, security, and style are typically three important factors when buying a car. It’s important to be able to trust your car manufacturer’s design and ability to ensure your passenger’s safety. Unfortunately due to recent social media trends, Kia auto theft is on the rise.
Unsurprisingly, this has resulted in consumers demanding that changes be made by the manufacturers. So what is Kia doing to help prevent easy break-ins? Here at Lawton Kia, we have the scoop on what exactly we’re doing to combat this serious issue. Before we jump to it, though, let’s take a look at when it all started.
Kia Manufacturing Issues
For over the past 10 years, South Korean car manufacturer, Kia, has opted-out of providing engine immobilization systems within their vehicles. Engine immobilization systems verify the legitimacy of the key that is inserted. If the key is not verified, then the engine will not start. This type of system has the specific intention to stop car thefts, or at least reduce it. This became such an issue, that some insurance agencies stopped providing coverage on a few Kia models! But don’t worry! As of last year, all newly produced Kia models have the engine immobilization systems along with some additional theft-deterring precautions.
Kia System Updates
Kia auto theft deterrent software is offered free to millions of its drivers and vehicles as a software update. This update provides a better alarm software logic which prolongs the amount of time the alarm goes off. It will extend the alarm life from 30 seconds to a full minute, as well as require the key to be in the ignition to be started. Kia is also sending out mass amounts of anti-theft car stickers to alert probable thieves about the updated protection systems and deter them.
Beware of Recent Social Media Kia Theft Trends
Although new Kia models have the technology that’s necessary to deter thieves, social media trends are still at large. There is a trend following the “Kia Boyz” has videos online depicting the accessibility and simplicity of breaking into a Kia, popping off the key ignition underneath the steering wheel and using a tool to start the vehicle without the needed key as well as a USB to hot-wire the car.
This social media trend has caused a major surge in car theft percentages around the United States and an increase in notice by public officials. The thieves seem to continue to be teenagers, some not even old enough to drive, yet still stealing, driving vehicles, and posting the video to social media. Believed to be only for social media clout or “after school entertainment” this trend is not only dangerous for all but also culpable by Kia.
Deter Kia Auto Theft at Lawton Kia
Nobody should have to worry about Kia auto theft. Especially if your Kia is stolen from the driveway or if it is broken into/stolen while you’re in a store. Buying and owning a vehicle needs to be a process you can trust. With theft rates rising for Kia vehicles in previous years, preventative steps are in motion. For example, improving the theft prevention system, as well as national awareness to the social media issue. Don’t risk getting your car broken into and stolen. At Lawton Kia, we can update your Kia software so that it has more protective precautions.
At Lawton Kia, you can trust that our reliable vehicles will get you where you need to go. So, feel free to check out our inventory to browse all of our new and used cars, trucks, and SUVs. Also, you can see our monthly specials. Already a Kia owner? Schedule a service or maintenance appointment. For more information visit Lawton Kia online or visit us in person to hear how we can help you.
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