Kylie Whitcomb If you’re a fan of TikTok or own a Hyundai or Kia from the early 2010s, you probably know about the Kia Challenge – a trend of theft and joyriding vehicles that are missing anti-theft equipment. Up until now, drivers were offered only temporary solutions. But now, VIS Devices is offering a solution that you may be able to find at your local Hyundai or Kia dealer: a Bluetooth-connected anti-theft device.
TikTok Trends and Missing Systems: What Happened to Old Kia and Hyundai Models?
In 2021, Kia and Hyundai thefts skyrocketed as part of the “Kia Challenge” TikTok trend. People were discovering a lack of an anti-theft system in older models of Kia and Hyundai vehicles allowed them to start these cars with only a USB and a passing knowledge of steering wheel anatomy.
By putting videos explaining this on social media, would-be thieves could learn what vehicle to target and how to get them started, leading to more stolen and destroyed Kia and Hyundai vehicles in the last year.
And stealing them was only half the problem – getting a stolen vehicle back didn’t always mean being able to drive it again.
The Problem with Recovering Stolen Kias
The biggest problem with recovering stolen Kias and Hyundais that are part of this trend is that they almost always end up damaged—either by broken windows and damaged steering wheels during the theft or because of crashes while joyriding.
A lack of replacement parts at mechanics and Hyundai and Kia dealer locations, as well as an increase in repair needs, is leaving drivers out hundreds of dollars and even having to buy new vehicles because of a problem they can’t fix. But now, they can.
The New Bluetooth-Connected Device to Protect Your Car
VIS Devices has created a Bluetooth-connected device that mimes the missing electronic anti-theft system on Kias and Hyundais. With it installed, it jams startup signals that require Bluetooth, so cars don’t even start with the keys in the ignition unless you simultaneously hold down the start button on the device.
The best part? It’s always on once installed, so you don’t have to worry about turning it on before leaving your car out at night. Suntrup Motor Group is offering assistance installing these devices at its Hyundai and Kia dealer locations. Elliot Silk, director of services at Suntrup Motor Group, had a lot to say about the VIS Device.
He emphasizes that thieves can try all they want but won’t be able to start the car with the device running. He also says that, by offering the device and installation, his company prevents drivers from having to buy a whole new car because theirs is totaled after the theft.
While the device is best-suited to help Hyundai and Kia drivers deal with and deter theft, it can be installed on nearly any car for only $200. If you’re concerned about the safety of your vehicle, consider buying this device and taking it to your local Kia dealer to have it installed.
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