Kia owners line up for anti-theft software upgrade
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Kia owners were lined up at Wolfchase Galleria on Friday morning for a free software update to help fight car theft.
The company says the cars can be prone to theft because of methods popularized and promoted on social media, so they’ve teamed with Gossett Kia to provide the software to fight crime.
Kias, along with Hyundais, are at the top of the most-stolen car list, Memphis Police say. As of last September, police reported almost 2,500 Kias stolen in 2023.
James Bell, a Kia technician, says the anti-theft security device will run the alarm and disable the ignition system for an extended period of time.
“Free of charge. This is something we wanted to do for our owners all across the country to reestablish that confidence and comfort in their car,” said Bell.
More than 22,000 vehicle thefts in Memphis in 2 years
The Kia software update will continue through Sunday at Wolfchase Galleria from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. No appointments are required.
Organizers say they expect at least 700 Kia owners across the Memphis area over the 3 days. But, if you can’t make it out, you can always go to your dealer, who can install the anti-theft device free of charge.
Only those with a turn-to-start key could be in need of the upgrade.
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