Kia and Hyundai Owners in Milwaukee: Ignition Damage and Keys
Updated 2026-10 · Milwaukee, WI
What happened here
Milwaukee is where the Kia and Hyundai thefts took off. In 2021, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, 66 percent of the 10,476 vehicles stolen in the city were Kias or Hyundais. The affected cars are certain turn-key models, roughly 2011 to 2022 Kia and 2008 to 2022 Hyundai, built without an engine immobiliser. Milwaukee police and the two makers handed out steering wheel locks at the city's district stations to owners of those models.
If your car came back damaged
- Report the theft or attempt to Milwaukee police and keep the report number.
- Photograph the steering column, the ignition and any broken windows before anything is touched.
- Call your insurer. Comprehensive coverage often pays for theft damage, less the deductible.
- Do not drive with the column open if the steering lock no longer works.
Then the repair. If the damage is to the ignition cylinder and its trim, an automotive locksmith can usually replace the cylinder and cut keys to match, often for less than a dealer. If wiring is cut, the column is broken or warning lights are on, it is a dealer or mechanic job.
The free software update
Both makers offer a free software update at their dealers for eligible turn-key cars. It adds an ignition-kill feature so the engine will not run unless the car is unlocked with the key fob first. It does not repair physical damage. A class settlement also offered money toward anti-theft devices, up to $300, for owners of cars that cannot take the update. Check your VIN with the maker to see whether your car qualifies.
Keys after an ignition replacement
A new ignition cylinder means new keys, because the old key will not fit the new lock. Ask how many keys are included in the price and whether the door locks will be matched to the new key or left on the old one. Carrying two keys for one car is a nuisance most people only discover afterwards.
Car back with a broken ignition? Call with the year and model and a description of the damage. You will hear whether it is a locksmith job and roughly what it costs.
Deterrence
A steering wheel lock is visible from the street, which is the point. With the software update and a repaired ignition, a car parked on a Milwaukee street overnight is a much worse target than it was in 2021.
Where to go next
Common questions
Is my car one of the affected models?
Turn-key Kias from roughly 2011 to 2022 and Hyundais from roughly 2008 to 2022 without an immobiliser. Push-to-start models were not affected the same way. Enter your VIN on the maker's site or ask a dealer.
Do I need the update if I have a steering wheel lock?
The lock is a deterrent; the update stops the engine running without the fob. They work well together.
Will the update fix my broken ignition?
No. Physical damage needs a repair first, then the update.