Kia's Latest Theft Deterrent Is A Bank Vault For The Ignition Cylinder

Kia is introducing a new anti-theft apparatus, a metal casing fitted to the automobile's ignition cylinder, to impede potential thieves from stealing cars. The device, which is being offered for free installation, aims to prevent the removal of the cylinder body from the vehicle's steering column, a method of theft gaining popularity through social media platforms such as TikTok. The ignition cylinder defender, as seen in an image above, is intended to be installed in certain Kias that were not suitable for the security-focused software update rolled out by the company in February 2023. Among these are the 2011-2021 Rio, 2011-2016 Forte, and 2011-2016 Sportage models.

Kia America's VP of Service Operations, Greg Silvestri, emphasized the company's commitment to vehicle safety, outlining ongoing efforts to safeguard their customer's vehicles against theft, influenced by content found on social media. The ignition cylinder fortification placed against these increasing theft techniques is strongly recommended by the company for owners whose vehicles lack engine immobilizers and cannot receive the security software update.

Since the launch of the security update nearly 11 months ago, Kia reports having implemented the change on approximately 960,000 vehicles. Additionally, to discourage thefts, over 330,000 free steering wheel locks, a basic preventative measure, were distributed since July 2023. Kia expects owners to utilize these advancements, including the newly launched cylinder guard.

Eligible car owners have begun receiving notifications about the free device installation, with instructions to take their vehicles to the closest dealership for the upgrade. Kia's website offers a service where owners can enter their vehicle identification number (VIN) to check if their car is eligible. More information on this anti-theft initiative by Kia can be found on their official website.