Residents of Travis County with Hyundai and Kia vehicles are getting some backup from local law enforcement and the vehicle manufacturers this weekend to guard against car theft. The Travis County Sheriff's Office, alongside representatives from Hyundai, is conducting an anti-theft software event in Pflugerville on Saturday, aimed at reducing thefts of certain vehicles that have become targets for criminals. According to a briefing by KXAN, thefts have surged for Hyundai models with a key turn start-up, specifically those made between 2011 and 2021.
Speaking to the prevalence of these incidents, TCSO Captain Scott Crow highlighted that "since Jan. 1, 2024, 50 Hyundai vehicles have been stolen in Travis County." The vehicles, it seems, have been susceptible to a social media challenge where thieves utilize a USB plug to start the cars. Hyundai has responded by developing anti-theft software, which has been available since February 2023, and the public is encouraged to take advantage of the free event to get this upgrade. "The company’s solution is extremely effective and if you own these vehicles call your dealer today to receive the software," Hyundai representative Dave VandeLinde expressed in a statement obtained by KXAN.
On Saturday, Aug.17, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Hyundai and Kia owners can come to the Pflugerville Travis County Community Center to receive the software and a steering wheel lock at no cost. No appointment is necessary and identification isn't required; only the vehicle serial number is needed to carry out the process. A video report on YouTube states that the software upgrade should take less than 30 minutes, providing a quick turnaround for concerned car owners seeking to secure their vehicles.
The collaborations between law enforcement and auto manufacturers are part of a proactive approach to tackle the spate of vehicle thefts that have hit Travis County. This is the 32nd clinic Hyundai has held across the nation and the third in the Austin area. For those unable to attend the event, Hyundai encourages vehicle owners to visit their dealers for the same services or to check their website to determine if their vehicle is due for a software upgrade.
