By producing vehicles without engine immobilizers, Kia and Hyundai created a significant problem that has led to lawsuits from municipalities and damage to the automakers’ reputations. The fallout has even left some owners of stolen vehicles without insurance coverage.
For affected owners, having a car stolen and then learning it is not covered adds insult to injury. The situation underscores the far-reaching consequences of the security shortcomings that made these vehicles such easy targets.