# Why is it difficult to get insurance for a Kia vehicle?

Amelia Palmer · August 4, 2026

> A significant factor affecting Kia vehicle insurance is a known increase in theft rates. In major cities like Milwaukee and St. Also worth reading: How...

A significant factor affecting Kia vehicle insurance is a known increase in theft rates.

In major cities like Milwaukee and St.

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Louis, Kia and Hyundai vehicles accounted for over half of auto thefts in recent years.

The main reason behind high theft rates is the lack of standard anti-theft technology, specifically immobilizers, in many models prior to 2022.

While 96% of vehicles produced between 2015 and 2019 from other manufacturers had immobilizers, only about 26% of corresponding Kia and Hyundai models did.

In 2023, insurers started withdrawing coverage for specific Kia and Hyundai vehicles because of their vulnerability to theft.

Major carriers like State Farm and Progressive have been among those refusing coverage for certain models.

The public attention on the so-called "Kia Challenge," a trend where thieves exploit these vehicles' security weaknesses, has further complicated insurance options.

Social media platforms made the issue more widespread, leading to a greater number of thefts and insurance claims.

A class action lawsuit settled for $200 million in 2022 against Kia and Hyundai highlights the legal repercussions of their lack of adequate security features.

Owners of affected vehicles are still facing difficulties in securing affordable insurance.

Insurance companies assess risk based on claims data.

The Highway Loss Data Institute reported that, based on 2021 claims, theft claims for Hyundai and Kia vehicles were nearly twice as common as those for other brands.

This data drives higher premiums or outright denial of coverage.

The 2015-2021 Kia Forte and Optima models are direct examples of vehicles that lack essential anti-theft features, making them prime targets for thieves, which in turn influences how insurers evaluate these cars.

Some Kias and Hyundais are now being retrofitted with additional anti-theft measures, such as software updates and tracking devices, which may help alleviate some of the insurance issues in the future.

Notably, there’s been a legislative push in different states encouraging Korean automakers to implement more robust security measures, potentially impacting the insurance landscape for these models as laws may incentivize improvements.

Consumers are advised to consider purchasing additional security equipment, such as steering wheel locks or GPS trackers, which may help in obtaining insurance or lowering premiums if they drive older Kia and Hyundai models.

Insurers rely heavily on the concept of loss expectancy based on historical data.

Kia vehicles present a higher loss expectancy due to theft, compelling insurance companies to adjust their underwriting guidelines.

An analysis revealed that in certain states with higher theft rates, insurance premiums for Kia vehicles increased significantly, affecting not only existing owners but also potential buyers of these models.

Self-insured retention could be an option for some Kia owners, where they may choose to take on a higher risk and lower their premium costs, although this requires a financial assessment on their part.

Social dynamics play a role; the perception of Kia vehicles being easy to steal can lead to a cycle where insurance companies raise premiums, reducing desirability and further increasing theft rates.

Insurers frequently evaluate new data, so improvements in Kia's security features could gradually change insurer attitudes.

Continuous updates will be crucial for restoring market perceptions and insurance options.

Newer Kia models, particularly post-2022, are being manufactured with better security systems designed to meet the evolving requirements of automotive insurance, which could alter the insurance landscape again.

Comparison shopping for insurance is becoming increasingly important for Kia owners.

With options varying widely among providers, being informed can directly affect coverage and costs.

The interplay between consumer concerns, manufacturer responsibilities, and insurance company policies creates a complex relationship affecting the overall automotive market landscape regarding Kia models.

Data on theft rates and insurance claims can influence legislative changes that may require stricter safety standards across the automotive industry, setting a precedent for all manufacturers, not just Kia and Hyundai.

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