RE: Hyundai and Kia Updates Due to Area Thefts — Earnhardt is Here to Help

“Our Phoenix-based family-run automotive group owns three Hyundai dealerships and one Kia dealership,” said Glen Bolz, Earnhardt Auto Centers’ Corporate Service Director. “We take vehicle security very seriously, and we want to lessen the possible impact on area drivers.”

Earnhardt Auto Centers has received revised protocols from the manufacturers (Hyundai and Kia) that include a theft deterrent software update. The software update is relatively simple for an authorized Hyundai or Kia service center to complete, and does not require any installations or mechanical repairs. Affected drivers are encouraged to call any of the three Earnhardt Hyundai locations in the Valley or Earnhardt Peoria Kia to schedule a time to get this free software update. 

“The new software update doubles the length of the alarm,” said Larry Donahue, Earnhardt Hyundai – San Tan Service Manager. “Plus, [where software updates are available] even if bypassed by a thief, the ignition switch will not start without the key.”

The most affected vehicles are “key-to-start” vehicles dating back to 2011. To confirm which cars are affected, affected owners should call the national toll-free numbers: 800-633-5151 for Hyundai and 800-333-4542 for Kia.  

“We’re relieved that this theft deterrent software can be offered free of charge,” said Josh Wojtyna, Service Manager at Earnhardt Hyundai in Avondale, Arizona. “However, it will take time to reach every owner.” 

Phoenix-area drivers can contact the appropriate service department at Earnhardt North Scottsdale Hyundai, Earnhardt Hyundai – San Tan (in Gilbert), Earnhardt Peoria Kia or Earnhardt Hyundai Avondale.  

“Until the problem is solved, we’re also sharing practical tips with owners,” said Kraig Angel, Earnhardt Peoria Kia’s Service Manager. “It sounds simple, but the first line of defense is to lock your car every time, even in your own driveway. And don’t leave a key-fob inside [or near] the car.”

Earnhardt Auto Centers — along with automotive manufacturers — has been in talks with local law enforcement about other ways to help secure the affected vehicles. Hyundai Motors America and Kia Motors have already sent free locks to law enforcement agencies in 12 states and interested parties are hoping for the same in Arizona.

“A steering wheel lock is very effective,” said Jose Santiago, Public Safety Media Relations Manager for the City of Glendale. “The average cost is $40, making it affordable for many owners.”

Via information on www.HyundaiAntiTheft.com, Hyundai has indicated that the software fix may not work for some of the oldest vehicles. These owners may get a different remedy such as reimbursement for a steering wheel lock and should speak with their local dealer about how to process such a claim with the manufacturer; or consumers may directly call 800-633-5151 for Hyundai and 800-333-4542 for Kia.

“There’s a lot of misinformation,” cautioned Michael Southern, Service Manager at Earnhardt Hyundai North Scottsdale. “Owners shouldn’t waste money on unproven solutions. Talk to a service advisor at your local [Earnhardt] dealer before altering your vehicle in any way.”

About Earnhardt Auto Centers

Founded by Tex Earnhardt as a single dealership with a single truck in 1951, Earnhardt Auto Centers is still a family-owned and operated business. It has grown, however, to include dealerships across the Phoenix metro area. Its famous tag line “No Bull” is well known. More info on Earnhardt can be found by navigating to www.NoBull.com.

Tags: antitheft, Earnhardt Auto Centers, Hyundai, Kia, software upgrade
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Events and Restaurants Open for Christmas 2021 in Gilbert AZ 

What are your plans for this holiday season? Do you love to get out and about and spread the holiday cheer? Do you enjoy a gourmet Christmas Dinner at your favorite restaurant? No matter where your holiday preferences lie, we have got you covered at Earnhardt Hyundai – San Tan with a list of our favorite events and restaurants open for Christmas 2021 in Gilbert, AZ. Do not miss out on the holiday savings and get behind the wheel of a 2022 Hyundai Tucson today at Earnhardt Hyundai – San Tan! 

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How To Set Up and Use Hyundai Blue Link® 

Are you always in a rush? Do you forget to lock the doors on your 2022, 2023 or 2024 Hyundai Tucson? Are you hoping to have remote start in your Hyundai? Hyundai Blue Link® Connected Car Services will provide drivers with that capability on their smartphone with the purchase of select Hyundai models. Armed with Hyundai Blue Link®, you can remotely start, lock, unlock, control interior temperatures and more via your smartphone – and it is FREE for the first three years. Learn how to set up and use Hyundai Blue Link® with this step-by-step guide created by Earnhardt Hyundai – San Tan in Gilbert, AZ. Schedule a test drive and experience Hyundai technology firsthand today!

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Interior Cargo Space in the 2022 Hyundai Palisade 

Hyundai has introduced the reimagined 2022 Hyundai Palisade to its full-size three-row SUV segment of cars for the 2022 model year. Available at a starting MSRP of $33,150, the new Palisade has practically everything you would want to see in an upscale SUV with three rows of modern elegance. The new model is available in four different trim levels: SE, SEL, Limited, and Calligraphy. Curious to know how spacious the interior of the 2022 Hyundai Palisade is? We have got you covered! Keep reading to learn more about the interior dimensions and cargo space of the 2022 Hyundai Palisade at Earnhardt Hyundai – San Tan in Gilbert, AZ. 

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Guide to 2022 Hyundai Kona Interior and Exterior Color Options 

The sporty design of the 2022 Hyundai Kona has made it a fan favorite at Earnhardt Hyundai – San Tan in Gilbert, AZ. Families who are drawn to the fun-to-drive crossover and want to turn heads when they get behind the wheel want to know – how many colors are available for the 2022 Hyundai Kona? Use this quick guide to 2022 Hyundai Kona interior and exterior color options to find a model that will check all the boxes for you and your family and schedule a test drive today!

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2022 Hyundai Sonata N Line Night Edition Features and Specs

A Sonata is a dream to drive and a treat to behold, but what if you are a fan of the blacked-out look? Boy, do we have a surprise for you. Let us introduce you to the 2022 Hyundai Sonata N Line Night Edition as we walk through its features and specs. You can also check out the Earnhardt Hyundai – San Tan new Sonata inventory in Gilbert, AZ by clicking the link below.

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Guide to 2022 Hyundai Elantra Interior and Exterior Color Options 

Are you looking for a fun and fuel-efficient compact sedan that will turn heads? The 2022 Hyundai Elantra may prove to be a great fit for your lifestyle and budget at Earnhardt Hyundai – San Tan in Gilbert, AZ. Potential drivers, who love the look and feel of the Hyundai Elantra want to know – what are the Hyundai Elantra color options? Find the right fit with this guide to 2022 Hyundai Elantra interior and exterior color options and schedule a test drive today! 

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Differences Between the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz and 2022 Honda Ridgeline 

Are you interested in a vehicle that provides the utility of a pickup truck and the comfortable ride of a sport utility? The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Sport Adventure Vehicle will check all the boxes at Earnhardt Hyundai – San Tan in Gilbert, AZ. To help illustrate why the brand-new Santa Cruz is the right choice for you, we have pitted it against a similar competitor in this comparison that highlights the differences between the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz and 2022 Honda Ridgeline.  

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How To Fold 2^nd and 3^rd-Row Seats in Your Hyundai Palisade 

A family favorite at Earnhardt Hyundai – San Tan, the 2021 Hyundai Palisade will provide room for up to eight passengers with the standard second-row bench seat. Hyundai Palisade models equipped with the second-row Captain’s Chairs increase comfort and seat up to seven family members. To make getting in and out easy for family members, the Hyundai Palisade features one-touch rear seats that can slide, recline and fold to make room for family or cargo. Learn how to fold 2^nd and 3^rd-row seats in your Hyundai Palisade with this quick how-to guide by Earnhardt Hyundai – San Tan in Gilbert, AZ. Contact us today to schedule a test drive in a brand-new Hyundai Palisade!

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Which Hyundai Models Have Third-Row Seating Gilbert AZ? 

Hyundai SUVs will check a lot of boxes for families on the go with a broad spectrum of family-friendly options available at Earnhardt Hyundai – San Tan in Gilbert, AZ. Families, who need more room for friends and family for the neighborhood carpool may want to know – which Hyundai models have third-row seating in Gilbert, AZ? Find a Hyundai SUV that will fit your lifestyle and budget today at Earnhardt Hyundai – San Tan! 

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