The city is getting together with Hyundai to upgrade vehicle security on some of the most-stolen models.
On Monday, Mayor Muriel Bowser, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), and representatives from Hyundai Motor Company announced an anti-theft mobile clinic designed to increase vehicle security.
The multi-day clinic held at RFK Compus (2400 Independence Ave. SE) will provide District motorists who own or lease certain Hyundai makes and models with the latest anti-theft technology. The technology will be installed by Hyundai technicians for free. Services will be available Thursday, July 27 through Monday, July 31 from 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
The installations will be performed by on-site service technicians who will install and complete a software upgrade, which is expected to take less than an hour. The installations will take place at RFK Parking Lot 8 (2400 Independence Avenue SE). No appointment is necessary.
“We are encouraging all eligible DC residents to take advantage of this free software upgrade,” said Mayor Bowser. “We know that having your car stolen can be a frustrating, stressful, and costly experience. Earlier this year, we started distributing free wheel locks at our MPD district stations, and installing this anti-theft software is one more way for residents to protect their vehicles.”
During the announcement event, Hyundai also provided two simulated demos of the anti-theft technology. The anti-theft vehicle software upgrade is applicable to approximately 3.8 million vehicles.
The upgrade makes modifications to Hyundai vehicles equipped with standard “turn-key-to-start” ignition systems. As a result, locking the doors with the key fob will set the factory alarm and activate an “ignition kill” feature so the vehicle cannot be started when individuals try to steal the vehicle by using the theft mode popularized on social media. Once the anti-theft software is updated in the affected vehicle, to further deter would-be thieves, Hyundai will also install anti-theft decals to the front windows of the vehicle.
Engine immobilizers are now standard on all Hyundai vehicles produced as of November 2021. The updates became available for various models at the beginning of February 2023.
Residents with a Hyundai car that fits one of the makes and models below will be eligible to receive the free anti-theft technology installation:
- 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
