TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — Thieves quickly spread the message on TikTok after discovering that a USB cable could start a Kia or Hyundai car’s engine.

“About 75% of them were manufactured and imported into the U.S. without immobilizers. They are not claimed by the U.S.,” said James McGuffin, director of the Arizona Auto Theft Authority.

“This created a vulnerability that eliminated the need for the key and the USB cable, which, as the TikTok video famously made it possible to turn the ignition,” McGuffin said. increase.

The trend first became widespread late last year, but the problem continues this year.

“In fact, the highest numbers were seen in March of this year. Fortunately, April is trending downward across the state,” McGuffin said.

Since Kia and Hyundai released software updates to fix the hack, there has been a decline, but unpatched drivers remain vulnerable.

“On average statewide, about 175 Kia and Hyundai vehicles are stolen each month, with about 35 stolen each month in Pima County,” McGuffin said.

If the police were able to track down your stolen vehicle, it’s likely that the ignition is broken.

“In the worst-case scenario, the entire steering column could be destroyed, and you would have to replace so many parts,” said Richard Becker, owner of Monsoon Automotive. Even computers will have to be replaced, which will cost a lot of money.”

Becker said misfiring can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars.

“Just the ignition lock cylinder to recode the car and put a new one in is around $250. I recently had the entire steering wrecked on my Hyundai and the insurance company ended up paying $3,200 for the repair. There was a lawsuit,” Becker said.

The automaker recently settled a $200 million class action lawsuit over allegations that its vehicles were susceptible to theft.

To avoid becoming the next victim of auto theft:

“When Kia and Hyundai owners receive notification that their car is ready for repair, they take it to the dealer as soon as possible,” McGuffin said.