Hyundai Service | Auburn, WA
Hyundai Anti-Theft Upgrade and Ignition Protector in Auburn, WA
If your 2011 to 2022 Hyundai starts with a turn of a key rather than a push button, it may qualify for two free fixes from Hyundai: an anti-theft software upgrade and an ignition cylinder protector. Bud Clary Auburn Hyundai is an authorized Hyundai dealer and installs both on eligible vehicles. Check your VIN with Hyundai, then book a weekday appointment with our service department.
- FreeSoftware upgrade and protector on eligible vehicles
- Under 1 hourHyundai's time for the software install
- Mar. 31, 2027Last day to have the protector installed
- WeekdaysAppointments Monday to Friday; closed weekends
Which Hyundais qualify for the software upgrade
Hyundai lists these models as affected. Within them, the upgrade applies to versions with a standard turn-key ignition and no engine immobilizer.
| Model | Model years |
|---|---|
| Accent | 2018 to 2022 |
| Elantra | 2011 to 2022 |
| Elantra GT | 2013 to 2020 |
| Genesis Coupe | 2013 to 2014 |
| Kona | 2018 to 2022 |
| Palisade | 2020 to 2021 |
| Santa Fe | 2013 to 2022 |
| Santa Fe Sport | 2013 to 2018 |
| Santa Fe XL | 2019 |
| Sonata | 2011 to 2019 |
| Tucson | 2011 to 2022 |
| Veloster | 2012 to 2017 and 2019 to 2021 |
| Venue | 2020 to 2021 |
Source: Hyundai's anti-theft site. A Hyundai with push-button start, or one produced after November 2021, already has an engine immobilizer. If yours has a turn-key ignition, Hyundai's FAQ links its VIN check.
What the software upgrade changes
The upgrade reprograms certain control modules so the car cannot be started by the theft method spread on social media. It only works if you use it: lock the doors with the key fob every time you leave the car. Locking with the fob sets the factory alarm and turns on the software's ignition kill.
Hyundai says any Hyundai dealership can perform the upgrade and that it takes less than an hour. The upgrade is free for eligible vehicles.
The ignition cylinder protector
The protector is a hardware piece fitted over the ignition cylinder for a second layer of defense against the same theft method. Hyundai makes it free for certain 2011 to 2022 Hyundais built without an engine immobilizer, and its campaign page says eligible owners have until March 31, 2027 to have it installed (Hyundai). When you book, ask for the anti-theft ignition cylinder protector by name, which is what Hyundai tells owners to do.
Washington joined the multistate settlement announced December 16, 2025 that calls for free zinc-reinforced ignition cylinder protectors, including on vehicles that previously qualified only for the software update (Washington Attorney General). Already had the software installed? Run your VIN again, because your car may now qualify for the protector too.
If your Hyundai cannot take the software
Some 2011 to 2022 Hyundais without an immobilizer cannot accept the upgrade. For those, Hyundai says its dealers provide a free steering wheel lock, and it suggests calling the dealer first to make sure one is in stock. Call us at (253) 833-2465 before you drive over. Hyundai also reimburses owners of those vehicles for a steering wheel lock or another anti-theft device, such as an alarm kit (Hyundai claims page).
Theft claims and insurance in Washington
If your eligible Hyundai was stolen, or someone tried to steal it, on or after April 29, 2025, and the software upgrade was already installed or you had an appointment booked for it, Hyundai says you may be entitled to compensation for certain expenses. Claims must be filed by March 31, 2027 through the settlement website.
Hyundai's partnership with AAA insurers for affected owners does not extend to Washington, according to Hyundai's own FAQ. Washington owners having trouble keeping coverage should speak with their own insurer or agent.
Booking it at Bud Clary Auburn Hyundai
- Check your VINEnter it on Hyundai's ignition protector page to see whether your car qualifies and when the protector is available for it.
- Book a weekday timePick a slot in our service scheduler or phone (253) 833-2465, and name the software upgrade, the ignition cylinder protector, or both. The shop works Monday through Friday from 7:30 in the morning until 6:00 in the evening.
- Leave the car, ride the shuttleOur free courtesy shuttle can take you where you need to go and bring you back when the car is ready.
- Lock it with the fobFrom then on, lock the doors with the key fob every time, or the upgraded software cannot do its job.
Shopping for a used Hyundai?
If the car you like is a 2011 to 2022 Hyundai with a turn-key ignition, run its VIN through Hyundai's lookup before you buy, and ask whether the upgrade and protector have been installed. You can browse our used inventory and read how Hyundai's warranty coverage applies to a car with a previous owner.
Book your anti-theft appointment
Have your VIN handy when you book. Our Auburn Way N shop takes appointments on weekdays and is closed Saturday and Sunday.
Visit our service department
Bud Clary Auburn Hyundai2807 Auburn Wy N
Auburn, WA 98002
Sales
- Mon - Sat
- 8:30 AM - 8:00 PM
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Service
- Mon - Fri
- 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
- Sat - Sun
- Closed
Frequently asked questions
Is the Hyundai anti-theft software upgrade free?
Yes. Hyundai offers it at no charge for eligible 2011 to 2022 models with turn-key ignitions, and the ignition cylinder protector is also free for vehicles that qualify.
How do I know if my Hyundai needs the anti-theft update?
If it has push-button start or was produced after November 2021, it already has an engine immobilizer. If it starts with a turned key, check the model list on this page and enter your VIN on Hyundai's site to confirm.
How long does the Hyundai anti-theft software update take?
Hyundai says the installation takes less than one hour.
What is the Hyundai ignition cylinder protector?
A hardware piece fitted over the ignition cylinder that adds protection against the social media theft method. It is free for eligible vehicles, and Hyundai's campaign page gives owners until March 31, 2027 to have it installed.
Do I still need to lock my Hyundai with the key fob after the update?
Yes. Locking the doors with the fob is what sets the alarm and turns on the ignition kill feature, so the upgrade depends on it.
Can I get a free steering wheel lock from Hyundai?
Hyundai says dealers provide one free to owners of affected 2011 to 2022 vehicles that cannot receive the software upgrade. Call us first so we can check that one is in stock.