If you drive a 2011 to 2022 Hyundai or Kia that starts with a turn key, a steering wheel lock is still one of the cheapest and most effective things you can do. These cars were built without an engine immobilizer, the part that stops a car starting without its key. Thefts have fallen since the fixes rolled out, but the Hyundai Elantra was still the most stolen vehicle in the US in 2025. Here is where things stand and what to do.
The problem, in one paragraph
About 9 million Hyundai and Kia vehicles sold in the US between 2011 and 2022 lacked immobilizers, including models such as the Hyundai Elantra and Sonata and the Kia Forte and Soul (CBS News). Videos showing how to start them spread on social media, and thefts surged. NHTSA linked the thefts to at least 14 reported crashes and eight deaths.
Where things stand in 2026
- The National Insurance Crime Bureau counted 659,880 vehicle thefts in the US in 2025, down 23% on 2024 (Insurance Journal).
- Hyundai and Kia's combined share of thefts fell to 14% in 2025, from 16% in 2024 and 21% in 2023.
- Even so, three of the ten most stolen vehicles in the US in 2025 were from the two brands: the Hyundai Elantra (21,732, number one), Hyundai Sonata (17,687, number three) and Kia Optima (11,521, number six).
So the wave has eased. The cars are still being stolen in large numbers.
What the manufacturers did
- A free software update that extends the alarm and requires the key in the ignition to start. About 3.8 million Hyundai and 4.5 million Kia vehicles were eligible.
- Free steering wheel locks handed out through police departments. Kia said it distributed over 65,000.
- A $200 million class action settlement. Owners whose vehicles cannot take the software update can buy an anti-theft device such as a steering wheel lock and be reimbursed up to $300 under the settlement terms.
Figures from CBS News. Check the settlement administrator's site for current claim deadlines and eligibility, which may have changed.
Why a steering lock still matters after the update
- Thieves cannot see the software. They break the window first and find out later. A lock across the wheel they can see from outside tells them to skip your car before the glass is broken.
- Not every car has the update. Some models could not receive it, and plenty of owners never went to the dealer.
- A mechanical lock does not care how the engine was started. If someone gets it running, they still cannot steer it away.
Choosing a lock you will use every day
Many of the free locks handed out were bar style locks. They work when they are on, but they are long, awkward and tend to end up in the trunk. The best lock is the one on the wheel every time you park, which is why speed matters. Our guide to the seatbelt steering wheel lock compares the three main types.
The BEAM Lab Steering Wheel Lock is a 5 mm steel cable in a braided sleeve that loops round the wheel and clicks into the seatbelt buckle. The wheel cannot turn and the buckle cannot release without the key. It fits in about three seconds, coils into the door pocket, and the orange ends show through the windshield. Three keys and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Other things worth doing
- Get the software update if your car is eligible. It is free at Hyundai and Kia dealers.
- Keep nothing visible in the car. A broken window costs money even if the car stays.
- Park in light and in view, and in a garage if you have one.
Common questions
Which Hyundai and Kia models are affected?
Many 2011 to 2022 models that start with a physical key rather than a push button. Hyundai and Kia have lookup tools on their websites using your VIN.
Can I still get a free steering wheel lock?
Free lock programmes were run through local police departments and some have ended. Call your local department or dealer to check.
Does the settlement pay for a steering wheel lock?
Under the settlement terms, owners whose vehicles cannot receive the software update can be reimbursed up to $300 for an anti-theft device such as a steering lock. Check the current terms and deadlines with the settlement administrator.
Is the Hyundai Elantra still the most stolen car?
Yes. NICB data shows the Elantra was the most stolen vehicle in the US in 2025, with 21,732 thefts.