“Hyundai Free and Easy Anti Theft Upgrade Through Monday @ RFK Lot 8”

photo by Eric P.

“Dear PoPville,

Just wanted to share a PSA to anyone with Hyundai vehicles that could be targeted by the TIkTok USB thieves (a whole bunch of Hyundai models pre-2022 that use a regular key to start the vehicle instead of a push start). There is a clinic at Lot 8 at RFK 8a – 7p through Monday (notice here!) where people can get a free software upgrade on their car.

Basically what the software upgrade does is prevents the ignition being turned on (by a key OR usb) after being locked with the keyfob — a little bit of roundabout way to address the problem but prevents thefts nonetheless since only unlocking with the keyfob would “unlock” being able to start the ignition. The guy did recommend continuing to use a steering wheel lock as a visual deterrent as thieves may not know what the new stickers mean on the door for awhile, just to prevent a potential break-in (though they won’t be able to start the car anyways).

I went this morning and it was super well-run and easy, and I was in and out in ~30 minutes. They have a customer lounge on site with AC with refreshments while you wait. They had to close for a couple hours late yesterday for the storm, but otherwise said it hasn’t been busy so people should be able to get in and out quickly!

Highly recommend this route for anyone with affected cars — certainly so much easier than going to a dealer IMO! Pls share with your Hyundai friends! :)”