Which anti-theft fix does my Kia get?
Answer three questions. Kia's VIN lookup is the final word, and we confirm it when you come in.
How each fix works
Anti-theft software upgrade
The upgrade restricts the ignition system if someone tries to start a locked Kia without the key. It's free at any Kia dealer, and Kia had installed it on about 940,000 vehicles by the end of 2023.
Important: lock the car with the button on your key fob, not the key in the door, so the protection arms.
Ignition cylinder protector
For Kias that can't run the software, Kia installs a zinc-reinforced protector around the key cylinder sleeve, then adds window decals that tell thieves the car is protected.
Kia lists these models: 2011-2016 Sportage, 2011-2016 Forte, 2010-2022 Soul, 2011-2021 Rio and 2014 Sedona.
Steering wheel lock
Kia provides free steering wheel locks to affected owners and lessees, directly and through local police departments. Kia says locks ship within 14 days of ordering.
Order through Kia's anti-theft support page with your VIN.
Kia theft settlements: what Colorado owners should know
Kia and Hyundai settled a class action covering 2011-2022 vehicles built without an engine immobilizer. It covers theft losses, insurance deductibles, higher premiums, and anti-theft devices owners bought themselves.
Claim status and payment timing: KiaTheftSettlement.com
Announced December 16, 2025, this $9 million settlement with 35 states and jurisdictions requires free zinc-reinforced ignition cylinder protectors. It also pays restitution to owners who installed the software update but had their car stolen, or nearly stolen, on or after April 29, 2025.
Claims: HKMultistateImmobilizerSettlement.com or (800) 333-4542
Emich Kia isn't the settlement administrator and can't file claims or give legal advice. We can install the free software upgrade and ignition protector and give you service records for your claim.
If your Kia was stolen or broken into
- Report it to police right away and get a report number. In an emergency, call 911.
- Call your insurance company and keep every receipt: towing, rentals, deductible.
- Check the settlement sites above to see which claim fits your situation and when it's due.
- Get it repaired and protected. Our collision center handles damage, and our service team installs the free anti-theft fix on the same visit.
- Thinking about moving on? Every new Kia has an engine immobilizer. Get a trade-in value or shop new Kias.
Kia anti-theft FAQ
Is the Kia anti-theft software update free?
Yes. Kia installs the anti-theft software upgrade at no cost at any Kia dealer, including Emich Kia in Denver.
Which Kias need the anti-theft update?
2011-2022 Kias with a turn-key ignition that were built without an engine immobilizer. Kias with push-button start have an immobilizer and aren't part of the campaign.
What if my Kia can't get the software upgrade?
Kia installs a free zinc-reinforced ignition cylinder protector instead. Kia lists 2011-2016 Sportage, 2011-2016 Forte, 2010-2022 Soul, 2011-2021 Rio and 2014 Sedona. Kia also offers a free steering wheel lock.
Is this a Kia recall?
It's a Kia customer service campaign, not a federal safety recall. The software, the ignition protector and the steering wheel lock are all free to eligible owners.
How do I get a free Kia steering wheel lock?
Order it through Kia's anti-theft support page with your VIN, or ask your local police department. Kia says locks arrive within 14 days of ordering.
Can I still file a Kia theft settlement claim?
It depends on which settlement and when the theft happened. The multistate settlement pays owners whose updated Kia was stolen or nearly stolen on or after April 29, 2025. Check each settlement's website for current deadlines.
Do new Kias have engine immobilizers?
Yes. Current Kia models come with an engine immobilizer, and the multistate settlement requires Kia to equip all future U.S. vehicles with one.
Get your free Kia anti-theft fix in Denver
Emich Kia Service, 1260 S. Colorado Blvd. We check your VIN and install whichever fix your Kia qualifies for.
Related Kia service guides
Program details come from Kia America and the settlement administrators and may change. Eligibility is confirmed by Kia using your VIN. Information current as of September 2026.