NEW ORLEANS — Hyundai tells Eyewitness News, it is working on a free software update to fix theft vulnerabilities in dozens of its vehicle models from the 2010s, as several insurance companies have stopped writing new policies for those vehicles in some states.
A spokesperson would not elaborate on the type of software, but said it is an “action by Hyundai to deter thefts of affected vehicles.” The company says the software will be available at the beginning of next month and will be free.
In a story WWL-TV broke Wednesday, State Farm insurance has deemed more than 100 models of Kia and Hyundai vehicles ‘ineligible’ for new coverage in Louisiana and some other states after a spike in thefts of those vehicles.
Progressive Insurance has also restricted coverage for affected Kia and Hyundai vehicles in several states, which currently does not include Louisiana.
Hyundai, which has donated free steering wheel locks to several law enforcement agencies, including New Orleans Police, has said it hopes the insurance restrictions are temporary.
A spokesperson for Hyundai wrote in a statement:
“Hyundai Motor America regrets this decision by insurers and its impact on select Hyundai vehicle owners and lessees, which we anticipate will be temporary. Engine immobilizers are now standard on all Hyundai vehicles produced as of November 2021 -- and have long been standard equipment on all Hyundai vehicles with push-button ignitions.”
Hyundai representatives have said they will have more details on the software update closer to its release date.