The software fixes that Kia and Hyundai are distributing to help stop a nationwide crime fad in hot-wiring their older vehicles may need fixes of their own.
Both auto companies have notified their dealers that the software solutions are not working perfectly.
According to a service bulletin sent from Kia America to its dealers in February, the company identified a compatibility issue involving vehicles equipped with remote start accessories.
Another bulletin, issued last week, said the problem has not been remedied.
A spokesperson for Kia confirmed that the issue persists, but the company expects to release a new version of the software update this month that is compatible with the subset of vehicles equipped with remote start. The automaker remains “confident” the upgrade works as designed for eligible models, the spokesperson said.
The same software update is also available for older Hyundai models not equipped with an antitheft device.
The most recent Hyundai service bulletin sent to dealers in April also advises that vehicles with aftermarket or add-on alarms or remote start systems may not operate normally if the software patch is installed.
A Hyundai spokesperson told Automotive News that a small number of Hyundai vehicles equipped with remote start systems may not operate normally when used in conjunction with the antitheft software, and that engineers are working to resolve the conflict in communication with dealers and affected customers.
Affected vehicles are located in colder climates where the remote start feature is more popular, the spokesperson said.
