Columbus clinic offering free anti-theft software to Kia owners

Jennifer Bullock
·2 min read

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – What started out as a TikTok trend, demonstrating how to quickly and easily start and steal certain car models, led to a massive rise of thefts, crashes and more across central Ohio.

“Specific 2010 to 2022 models. These are Hyundai and Kia models that use a key to start the car, not a push button,” said Patrick Olsen, Editor-in-Chief of CARFAX.

North Franklinton residents evacuated, exit ramps closed after hazmat situation

Olsen spoke with Better Call 4 about the issue last year. He said the problem is that these models lack immobilizers, or devices that prevent an engine from starting if there is no physical key in the ignition.

But as the trend took off, automakers came up with a solution for the millions of cars — and people — affected.

“We went directly to our associates in research and development in Korea and came up with this software upgrade solution,” said James Bell with Kia America.

Bell said the automaker rolled out the solution to dealerships nationwide early last year. But throughout 2023, in some areas — like Columbus — the problem of theft persisted. That’s why Kia America brought the solution to Capital City car owners, by hosting an in-person, mobile software upgrade service clinic last October.

“When I was given the list of cities that we were going to look at, I took Columbus and put it up at the top, because I knew that it had to be,” Bell said.

And continues to be, as Kia America announced that it will hold another anti-theft software upgrade clinic in Columbus April 19 through April 21 at Historic Crew Stadium.

A representative said:

“Kia America is aware of the impact this social media-fed crime wave has had on Ohio, and especially the greater Columbus area, so we wanted to come back to be sure all Kia owners have a chance to process the upgrade and feel confident once again.“

During the clinc, specially-trained technicians will be on-hand to install the upgrade, at no cost to car owners. And the process will be simple, according to Marco Nickens, with Kia America.

“It’s about the same time as an oil change. So, about 30 minutes,” said Nickens. “30 minutes of your time and it will be completed. We even have free WiFi. So, if you need to come and do some work, you can get some work done.”

The clinic takes place at Historic Crew Stadium on One Black and Gold Boulevard during the following times:

  • Friday, April 19 and Saturday, April 20 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

  • Sunday, April 21 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Those who are unsure if their vehicle is eligible for the upgrade can find more information here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.