Most Kia and Hyundais are still vulnerable to car theft. Here's how to protect yours

In February, Kia and Hyundai promised new anti-theft software upgrades would help hit the brakes on a dramatic rise in car thefts across the country, fixing a security flaw that made certain models of the two car brands easy to steal.

Months later, nearly 80% of the roughly 8.3 million impacted Kias and Hyundais still lack the upgrades, the two companies confirmed. Car thefts in Rochester this year reached exorbitant levels, though they have slowed in recent weeks.

Almost 3,200 cars have been stolen in the city so far this year, nearly tripling last year's total. Monroe County saw a 345% increase in car thefts compared to last year ― the highest in the state, Gov. Kathy Hochul said at a press conference earlier this month.

Solutions: What will stop car thefts in Rochester? Governor Hochul has some ideas

Hochul said her administration has sent letters to every registered Kia and Hyundai owner in New York, urging them to seek the security upgrades without haste to help prevent further thefts.

Here's how to check if you are eligible and how to protect your car if you're not.

Which Kia and Hyundais are covered by the anti-theft software upgrade?

The security flaw impacts key-started Kias and Hyundais manufactured between 2011 and 2022. Free upgrades are available through the manufacturers' car dealerships and take about an hour to install.

Eligible Kia models include:

• 2011-2021 Forte

• 2021-2022 K5

• 2011-2020 Optima

• 2011-2021 Sedona

• 2021-2022 Seltos

• 2011-2022 Sorento

• 2020-2022 Soul

• 2011-2022 Sportage

• 2012-2021 Rio

Schedule an upgrade at ksupport.kiausa.com/ConsumerAffairs/SWLD or by calling 800-333-4542.

Eligible Hyundai models include:

• 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

Schedule an upgrade at hyundaiantitheft.com or by calling 800-633-5151.

What if my car is not covered by the software upgrade?

Some other models cannot accommodate the new security software, yet remain vulnerable to theft, the two companies said.

As part of a proposed class action settlement, Kia and Hyundai will reimburse those owners for steering wheel locks and other anti-theft devices, like an alarm kit. Contact the companies to start a claim.

As a general safety tip, police have urged Kia and Hyundai owners to park in a secure garage or well-lit areas, if they can, and to make sure their cars are locked.

What if my car is stolen?

Stolen cars should be reported to the police department. When recovered, most end up in Rochester's impound lot. The city has agreed to waive the first five days of storage fees for victims of car theft; towing fees are not covered.

Residents have also taken on the task of reuniting stolen cars with their owners through the local Facebook group, "Stolen/Found Vehicles Rochester, NY."

Hochul said victims of car theft may also qualify for compensation through the state Office of Victim Services. Find more information at https://ovs.ny.gov/victim-compensation.

More: Is it OK to use the term 'Kia Boys?' Media focus might highlight thrill-ride crime aspect

Kayla Canne reports on community justice and safety efforts for the Democrat and Chronicle. Get in touch at kcanne@gannett.com or on Twitter @kaylacanne.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: How to protect your Kia or Hyundai from car theft in Rochester NY