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New Hyundai software upgrade combats thefts
Thefts of Kias and Hyundais have skyrocketed recently. But, starting tomorrow, Hyundai owners can get a free software upgrade that will help protect against theft.
AUSTIN, Texas - Austin police and Hyundai are teaming up to prevent auto thefts after a rash of crimes targeting vehicles.
"We're here because of a nationwide, basically an explosion in auto thefts of Hyundais and Kias," said Mike Earley, with the Austin Police Department.
Hyundai owners from Austin and the surrounding area are invited to bring their vehicles to Burger Sports Complex from March 8 to March 10 for a free anti-theft software upgrade.
"In Travis County, only 9% of the cars registered here are either Hyundai or Kia. But in 2023, 35% of all stolen vehicles in the city of Austin were Kia and Hyundai," said Earley. "There are occasions where we find it in our neighboring communities. That's why we encourage people to put a secondary GPS tracking device on a Hyundai or Kia, something such as an Apple AirTag, and hide it where only you know where it's at."
Hyundai says it should take its technicians less than 30 minutes to install the new technology. All Hyundai owners will also receive a no-cost steering wheel lock.
The affected vehicles include:
- 2018-2022 Accent
- 2011-2022 Elantra
- 2013-2020 Elantra GT
- 2013-2014 Genesis Coupe
- 2018-2022 Kona
- 2020-2021 Palisade
- 2013-2022 Santa Fe
- 2013-2018 Santa Fe Sport
- 2019 Santa Fe XL
- 2011-2019 Sonata
- 2011-2022 Tucson
- 2012-2017 & 2019-2021 Veloster
- 2020-2021 Venue
The Burger Sports Complex is located at 3200 Jones Road in Austin.
The event will take place on the following dates:
- Friday, March 8, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Saturday, March 9, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Sunday, March 10, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
No appointment is necessary.
For more information, click here.