Hyundai Service | Longview, WA
Free Hyundai Anti-Theft Software and Ignition Protector in Longview
Since thefts of turn-key Hyundais spiked in the summer of 2022, Hyundai has rolled out two free fixes for eligible 2011 to 2022 models without an engine immobilizer: a software upgrade that kills the ignition once the car is locked with the fob, and a protector fitted over the ignition cylinder. The service drive at Bud Clary Hyundai, 700 7th Ave., installs the software, and the protector once Hyundai shows it as available for your car, on weekdays and Saturday mornings.
- FreeSoftware and protector on eligible cars
- Under 1 hourHyundai's install time for the software
- Mar. 31, 2027Hyundai's last day to install the protector
- SaturdaysService open 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Does your Hyundai need it?
Start with how it starts. Hyundai says cars with push-button start already carry an engine immobilizer, and so does any Hyundai built from November 2021 on. The upgrade is meant for turn-key cars without one, and Hyundai's anti-theft site has a VIN lookup that settles it car by car.
A 2022 can go either way depending on its build date and ignition, so check the VIN rather than going by model year alone.
Model years on Hyundai's affected list
Sorted by the first model year affected. Within these models, only versions with a turn-key ignition and no immobilizer qualify.
| Model years | Models |
|---|---|
| 2011 to 2022 | Elantra and Tucson |
| 2011 to 2019 | Sonata |
| 2012 to 2017, plus 2019 to 2021 | Veloster |
| 2013 to 2022 | Santa Fe |
| 2013 to 2020 | Elantra GT |
| 2013 to 2018 | Santa Fe Sport |
| 2013 and 2014 | Genesis Coupe |
| 2018 to 2022 | Accent and Kona |
| 2019 | Santa Fe XL |
| 2020 and 2021 | Palisade and Venue |
Source: Hyundai's affected-vehicle list at hyundaiantitheft.com, read October 5, 2026.
Two fixes, and why you may want both
The software upgrade, which Hyundai lists as Campaign 993, reprograms certain control modules. Once it is installed, locking the doors with the key fob sets the factory alarm and switches on an ignition kill, so the car will not start using the theft method that spread online. Hyundai says any Hyundai dealer can install it in less than an hour.
The ignition cylinder protector is hardware: a part that fits over the ignition cylinder and puts a second barrier in front of the same method. Hyundai dealers install it free on request for eligible cars, Hyundai tells owners to ask for it by name, and lists March 31, 2027 as the last day to have it put in (Hyundai).
Washington's attorney general was one of 36 attorneys general in the settlement announced December 16, 2025, which calls for free zinc-reinforced protectors and extends them to cars that earlier qualified only for the software (Washington Attorney General). If your car got the software a while back, run the VIN again: it may now qualify for the protector as well.
When the software will not fit
Not every immobilizer-free Hyundai from those years can run the new software. For those cars, Hyundai says its dealers hand out a steering wheel lock at no charge, and it suggests calling ahead to be sure one is in stock, so phone our service desk at (360) 423-4321 before you make the drive.
Owners of those cars can also get back what they paid for a steering wheel lock, or for a different theft deterrent like an alarm kit. Hyundai's claims page explains how.
If your Hyundai was stolen or broken into
The multistate settlement pays limited compensation when an eligible car had the software installed, or had an appointment booked for it, at the time of the incident. The theft or attempt must have happened on or after April 29, 2025, and before the protector went in or March 31, 2027, whichever came first.
| What happened | Settlement payment, up to |
|---|---|
| Total loss | $4,500 |
| Partial loss | $2,250 |
| Attempted theft | $375 for reasonable related expenses |
Amounts and rules from the settlement website, which says funds are limited and paid on a rolling basis until they run out. Hyundai's compensation page sets March 31, 2027 as the claim deadline.
Insurance for these models in Washington
Hyundai set up a program with AAA insurers for owners of affected cars, but its own FAQ says the program does not reach Washington, one of three states where AAA does not offer insurance (Hyundai FAQ). If you are shopping for coverage, ask your own agent or insurer how they treat these models.
Getting it done at Bud Clary Hyundai
- Run your VINEnter it on Hyundai's protector page to confirm eligibility and see when the protector will be ready for your model.
- Book a timeUse our scheduler or call (360) 423-4321, and say whether you want the software, the protector or both. Service hours run Monday to Friday 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM and Saturday 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
- Wait or rideHyundai puts the software install at under an hour. If you would rather not wait, our free courtesy shuttle can drop you off and return you once the work is finished.
- Use the fob from now onFrom here on, use the fob to lock up whenever you leave the car. That click is what arms the alarm and the ignition kill.
Looking at a used Hyundai?
If the car you are considering is a turn-key 2011 to 2022 Hyundai, check its VIN with Hyundai before you commit, and ask the seller for a service record showing the upgrade or protector. Browse our used inventory, and see how Hyundai's warranty coverage applies when a car has had a previous owner.
Get on the schedule
Bring the key fob and have the VIN ready when you book. Saturday mornings work too, until 3:00 PM.
Visit our service department
Bud Clary Hyundai700 7th Ave.
Longview, WA 98632
Sales
- Mon - Fri
- 8:30 AM - 7:00 PM
- Saturday
- 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Sunday
- 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Service
- Mon - Fri
- 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
- Saturday
- 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
- Sunday
- Closed
Frequently asked questions
Which Hyundai models need the anti-theft software update?
Turn-key versions without an engine immobilizer of the 2011 to 2022 Elantra and Tucson, 2011 to 2019 Sonata, 2013 to 2022 Santa Fe, 2018 to 2022 Accent and Kona, 2020 and 2021 Palisade and Venue, and several others listed on this page. Hyundai's VIN lookup gives the final answer for your car.
Is my 2022 Hyundai already protected?
Yes, if it starts with a button or came off the line in November 2021 or later; Hyundai says those cars have an engine immobilizer. A turn-key 2022 built earlier may still need the upgrade, so check the VIN.
Is there a deadline for the Hyundai ignition cylinder protector?
Yes. Hyundai's campaign page gives March 31, 2027 as the final date for installation on eligible cars. It costs nothing, but you have to ask for it when you book.
How long does the Hyundai anti-theft update take?
Hyundai says the software installation takes less than one hour. Book an appointment so the service drive can plan for it.
Does the anti-theft update work if I don't use the fob?
Hyundai ties it to the fob: the factory alarm and the ignition kill arm when you lock the doors with the key fob. Make it a habit.
Can I get reimbursed for a steering wheel lock?
If your 2011 to 2022 Hyundai cannot take the software, Hyundai pays back the cost of a steering wheel lock or of an alternative such as an alarm kit. Its dealers also provide a steering wheel lock at no charge, so call before you come in.