2021-2022 Kia Theft Protection Upgrade (CS2312)

Why This Matters

Kia has observed a significant increase in vehicle thefts involving certain Kia models, largely fueled by methods shared on social media. This trend has prompted Kia to develop comprehensive solutions to enhance vehicle security and protect owners.

Kia's Anti-Theft Solutions

To counter the social media theft method, Kia has engineered a two-pronged approach. The first is a software upgrade designed to address vulnerabilities. This software was made available to owners of eligible models free of charge at authorized Kia dealers starting in 2023.

The second solution is a new zinc-reinforced ignition cylinder protector hardware upgrade. This physical protector can be installed at the ignition cylinder location, providing an additional layer of security. This hardware upgrade is specifically for Kia vehicles that were not factory-equipped with an engine immobilizer and were previously eligible for the software upgrade.

How to Get Your Kia Theft Protection Upgrade

Owners of eligible 2021-2022 Kia models who have not yet received the software upgrade should contact their local Kia dealer to schedule an appointment. You can find your nearest dealer by visiting www.kia.com and clicking the "Find Dealer" button. A list of eligible models for the software upgrade is available at https://customercare.kiausa.com/SWLD.

For the anti-theft ignition cylinder protector, eligible owners can have it installed at no cost through an authorized Kia dealership if requested by March 31, 2027. If an authorized Kia dealer is unable to schedule an appointment for the ignition cylinder protector installation by this date, owners should contact Kia Customer Care online at kia.com (Owners>Contact Us) or call 800.333.4Kia (4542) before March 31, 2027. This contact will ensure eligibility for installation beyond the initial deadline.

Important Owner Information

Kia emphasizes the importance of proper vehicle security. Owners who have already received the software upgrade are reminded of the following:

"IF YOU HAVE ALREADY RECEIVED THE SOFTWARE UPGRADE, AS A REMINDER, PLEASE REMEMBER TO ALWAYS USE THE VEHICLE'S KEY FOB TO ENSURE THAT THE VEHICLE IS LOCKED, AND THE SOFTWARE IS ARMED AFTER YOU EXIT THE VEHICLE."

Kia has also announced the availability of the hardware upgrade with the following statement:

"NOW AVAILABLE: ANTI-THEFT IGNITION CYLINDER PROTECTOR"

Consumer Compensation for Theft Incidents

Kia is also offering consumer compensation for certain theft and attempted-theft related expenses. This applies to consumers whose eligible vehicle was equipped with the software upgrade at the time of a theft or attempted-theft incident that occurred on or after April 29, 2025. Compensation is also available if you can provide documentation showing a scheduled appointment for the software upgrade at the time of such an incident.

To receive compensation, a valid and timely claim must be submitted by March 31, 2027. More information on eligibility and the claims process can be found at www.HKMultistateimmobilizersettlement.com. For questions, you can also contact 800.333.4Kia (4542).

It is crucial to understand the specific criteria for compensation:

"YOU ARE ONLY ELIGIBLE FOR CONSUMER COMPENSATION IF YOUR VEHICLE QUALIFIES FOR THE SOFTWARE UPGRADE AND YOU (1) ALREADY HAD THE SOFTWARE UPGRADE INSTALLED, OR (2) YOU HAD A PENDING APPOINTMENT TO RECEIVE THE SOFTWARE UPGRADE AT THE TIME OF THE THEFT OR ATTEMPTED THEFT."