CONSUMER ALERT:
REGARDING INSURANCE FOR CERTAIN HYUNDAI AND KIA AUTOMOBILES
As of February 21, 2023
The Maryland Insurance Administration is aware that Kia and Hyundai vehicles continue
to be stolen at increased rates in Maryland and nationwide. These thefts are related to
“challenges” circulating on social media that show how to start certain Kia and Hyundai
models using a USB cord. Please contact your dealer to find out if your car is one of the
models that is vulnerable to theft.
There have been reports in the media of some insurance companies refusing to write a
policy for these vehicles in some states. This is not allowed in Maryland and the Maryland
Insurance Administration (MIA) has confirmed that coverage for these vehicles continues
to be available from all of our largest insurer groups.
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If you have been refused coverage
because you own a Hyundai or a Kia, please file a complaint with the MIA. You may
submit your complaint through our website at:
https://insurance.maryland.gov/Consumer/Pages/FileAComplaint.aspx
The MIA also urges owners of impacted vehicles to take action to protect their vehicles
from theft. Law enforcement has advised:
- Don’t leave phone charging cables in your car;
- Lock and park your car in secure well-lit areas;
- Use a steering column lock device or other theft deterrent technology;
- Contact your car dealer to learn about the available software upgrades for
your specific vehicle.
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Hyundais and Kias are eligible for coverage from our largest insurer groups that write over 90% of our market by
premium volume. These groups are: GEICO; State Farm; Allstate; Progressive; USAA; Erie; Nationwide; Liberty
Mutual; Travelers; Agency Insurance Company; The Hartford; and, Farmers.
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The Associated Press reports that both Hyundai and Kia are implementing free software updates to address the
problem ( Hyundai, Kia update security after TikTok challenge thefts – Daily Press ). Contact your local dealer for
details or call 800.633.5151 (Hyundai) or 800.333.4542 (Kia).
KATHLEEN A. BIRRANE
Commissioner
TAMMY R.J. LONGAN
Acting Deputy Commissioner
WES MOORE
Governor
ARUNA MILLER
Lt. Governor
200 St. Paul Place, Suite 2700, Baltimore, Maryland 21202
Direct Dial: 410-468-2000 Fax: 410-468-2020
1-800-492-6116 TTY: 1-800-735-2258
www.insurance.maryland.gov
For additional information on how to protect against the theft of these vehicles, please
review the following Maryland State Police Alert.
If you have any questions regarding this Consumer Alert, please contact the Maryland
Insurance Administration at 410-468-2000 or 800-492-6116, or visit our website at
www.insurance.maryland.gov.
