I hear auto insurance carriers are starting to drop coverage on these vehicles for this reason......I’m surprised that hasn’t curbed sales enough to force the manufacturer to take action.
They did take action...for FUTURE sales. But the older cars are screwed.
What will force them is the class action lawsuits that they are facting.
As of 2022, Hyundai and Kia had stepped up and added an ignition interlock on all new vehicles (supposedly). But that doesn't do diddly squat for the ones that currently have the issue. I've watched the videos of the people stealing these affected cars. It takes them less than 20 seconds to break in and drive off.
When this affects the sales numbers of new KIAs and Hyundia’s then they will change.
I personally would be reluctant to purchase one of these vehicles because of this issue.
I had owned a used 1977 Oldsmobile Delta 88 that was stolen. They pulled up the lock with a slimjim tool then shattered the cheap potted metal that GM used for the steering column then used a screwdriver to start the car by pulling up a rod. They also smashed the windshield just because. The car was recovered the next day minus the radio.
I had to use a screwdriver to start the car until I had my steering column replaced.
I have a 2016 Honda Accord that has a alarm system that locked ME out until the dealership fixed it.
I had bought the car the night before and was locked out when I went to go to work the next day.