How popular has the Kia Challenge crime wave been? HLDI’s Wakeman says his group saw thefts more than double in Wisconsin and quickly increase in other states thanks to the challenge.
The National Insurance Crime Bureau asked social media to take down these explainer videos, although they are still easy to find online. Matthew Phillips, CEO of Car Pros, a large group of Kia dealers on the West Coast, says about 75 percent of vulnerable models will get free software updates. However, the updates are specific to each model, so the rollout is coming in stages and owners will need to visit their local dealer to get the security patch. Owners of all other vehicles will be offered a steering wheel lock. (Owners can contact Hyundai at 800-633-5151 and Kia at 800-333-4542 for updates.)
Phillips also notes that criminals still have to physically break into a car to do this hack. “The only thing that is high-tech is the distribution of information,” says Phillips. “It’s smash and grab.” Until owners receive the update, they should use a steering wheel lock or try not to leave their vehicles parked in open lots or on the street.
3. Theft of catalytic converters
Sometimes it is not the method of theft, but the goal itself that is high-tech. That’s the story behind the epidemic of catalytic converter thefts, which are so common they have a nickname: “cat thefts.” According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, catalytic converter thefts increased 1,215 percent between 2019 and 2022.
Catalytic converters are anti-pollution devices and are part of most gas-powered vehicle exhaust systems. To create a chemical reaction that reduces emissions, catalytic converters use three precious metals: rhodium, palladium and platinum. These metals have become very precious, with rhodium only recently priced at $9,750 per ounce. This has made cat thefts very attractive, especially for Toyota Prius models from 2004 to 2009.
Wakeman says there are three reasons for the Prius’ particular appeal: The cars have an easily recognizable design, they use higher concentrations of precious metals than other models, and stealing them requires removing just a few bolts. Usually thieves have to cut the converter. Commercially sold catalytic converter shields, which provide protection around the part, can help make this process more difficult for thieves, but some experts say they’re not very effective.
Because thieves often try to sell stolen parts to save businesses, some local police departments run regular engraving programs to mark converters with the owner’s license plate number or VIN number. Brands then act as a deterrent, making it harder to sell to reputable recyclers. If you are the victim of cat theft, expect to pay between $300 and $2,500 to have a replacement converter installed.
4. Code capture
We’ve all done it. You’ve just parked your car at the mall, and as you’re leaving, you’re wondering, “Did I actually lock the car?” So you reach into your pocket and press the key fob to confirm that your vehicle is locked. That’s when thieves can strike, intercepting your key fob’s radio frequency and then copying your code. The flash of a car’s lights tells them which car to steal
