Is Your Kia or Hyundai a Theft Target? Insurance Shocker!

Insuring Your Kia or Hyundai Might Be a Challenge: Here's Why
Kia and Hyundai owners, buckle up! You might face some serious roadblocks when shopping for car insurance. Recent years have seen a surge in thefts and vandalism targeting specific Kia and Hyundai models, leaving insurance companies wary and causing headaches for car owners.
Why the Spike?
The problem lies in a lack of engine immobilizers in certain Kia and Hyundai vehicles from past years. This technology makes it significantly harder for thieves to steal a car. Unfortunately, many Kia and Hyundai models from 2011-2021 (Kia) and 2015-2021 (Hyundai) lack this crucial safeguard.
Here's a breakdown of the impacted vehicles:

• Kia (2011-2021): Forte, Optima, Sportage, Soul, Sorento, Rio, and Sedona
• Hyundai (2015-2021): Sonata, Elantra, Tucson, Santa Fe, Accent, Kona, Veloster, Genesis, Palisade, and Venue

What This Means for Insurance
The increased theft risk has insurance companies taking action:

• Soaring premiums: Insurers may significantly raise your rates to cover a car they consider a prime target for theft.
• Coverage denials: In extreme cases, some insurers might flat-out refuse to offer coverage for these specific Kia and Hyundai models.

Limited Options, But Don't Give Up!
While the situation is challenging, there are still ways to navigate this insurance maze:

• Shop relentlessly: Get quotes from a multitude of insurance companies. Rates can vary greatly, so don't settle for the first offer.
• Consider additional security: While even after-market immobilizers and alarms haven't proven entirely effective in deterring these thefts, they might still make you eligible for discounts from some insurers.
• Talk openly with your agent: Be upfront with your agent about your car's model year and the theft risks. They can explore all coverage options and find the best fit for your situation.
• Stay informed: The situation is constantly evolving. Keep an eye out for news on Kia and Hyundai addressing the security vulnerabilities and how it affects insurance rates.

Considering a New Car?
If you're already in the market for a new vehicle, and the insurance hassles and potential cost increases are a concern, you might want to avoid these particular Kia and Hyundai models (2011-2021 for Kia and 2015-2021 for Hyundai) altogether. Newer models may have addressed the security vulnerabilities, but it's always wise to check with your chosen manufacturer and insurance company before finalizing your purchase.
The Bottom Line
Owning a Kia or Hyundai from the impacted years doesn't automatically mean sky-high insurance costs. However, you'll likely face more challenges and require more effort to find affordable coverage. By being proactive, persistent, and staying informed, you can still secure your car and your wallet. But if you're shopping for a new car, consider these insurance realities when making your choice.