How Easy-to-Steal Kia and Hyundai Models Are Affecting Insurance Coverage

In recent years, there has been a surge in car thefts of certain Kia and Hyundai models, to the point where insurance companies in some states are refusing to cover them. This trend has become a major concern for those who rely on these affordable vehicles to get around.

So, how did we get here? Let’s take a closer look at the factors contributing to this issue and what can be done to prevent it.

The Problem at Hand

The problem of Kia and Hyundai thefts is not a new one. In fact, it has been an ongoing issue for several years. However, the situation has worsened in recent times, with thieves targeting specific models that are known to have weak security features.

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), the most commonly stolen Kia and Hyundai models are the 2018-2020 Kia Optima, 2019-2020 Kia Forte, 2019-2020 Hyundai Tucson, and 2019-2020 Hyundai Santa Fe. These models are particularly vulnerable to theft due to their keyless entry systems, which can be easily hacked by tech-savvy thieves.

The NICB also reported that many of these stolen vehicles end up being sold for parts or shipped overseas, making them difficult to recover. This not only causes financial losses for the owners but also poses a safety risk as these stolen vehicles may end up in the hands of criminals.

Insurance Coverage Implications

The rise in Kia and Hyundai thefts has led to insurance companies taking action. In some states, insurers have started to refuse coverage for these models or charge higher premiums due to the increased risk of theft.

For example, in California, some insurance companies have stopped covering the 2019-2020 Kia Forte and 2019-2020 Hyundai Tucson altogether. In Michigan, insurers are charging higher premiums for these models, with some companies even requiring additional anti-theft devices to be installed.

This has left many Kia and Hyundai owners in a difficult situation, as they may not be able to afford the increased insurance costs or find alternative coverage. It also raises questions about the responsibility of car manufacturers to ensure their vehicles have adequate security measures in place.

Prevention Measures

So, what can be done to prevent Kia and Hyundai thefts? One solution is for car owners to take extra precautions to protect their vehicles. This includes using steering wheel locks, installing GPS tracking devices, and parking in well-lit areas.

Car manufacturers can also play a role in preventing thefts by improving their security features. For example, they can implement stronger encryption for keyless entry systems or require additional authentication steps before the vehicle can be started.

In addition, law enforcement agencies can work to crack down on car theft rings and increase public awareness of the issue. This can help deter potential thieves and make it easier to recover stolen vehicles.

Conclusion

The rise in Kia and Hyundai thefts is a concerning trend that has significant implications for car owners and insurers alike. While there are steps that can be taken to prevent these thefts, it ultimately falls on car manufacturers to ensure their vehicles have adequate security measures in place.

As this issue continues to gain attention, it is important for stakeholders to work together to find solutions that protect both car owners and insurers from financial losses and safety risks. By taking action now, we can prevent this crime wave from escalating further.

H2: The Problem at Hand

H2: Insurance Coverage Implications

H2: Prevention Measures

H2: Conclusion