Kia and Hyundai will spend millions repairing old cars to stop thefts from Kia Boys.

Kia and Hyundai will offer free repairs to millions of cars that lack anti-theft technology as part of a plan Settlement with dozens of American states. Automakers have agreed to equip nearly 9 million eligible vehicles sold between 2011 and 2022 with a zinc cap installed around the ignition cylinder to prevent ignition. Widespread Kia Boys thefts Which only requires a USB cable.

Repairs could cost up to $500 million, plus several million in damages Hyundai and Kia owners Whose cars were damaged by thieves news agency Reports. Automakers have also promised that all of their future cars will feature an engine immobilizer, a piece of technology that prevents would-be thieves from bypassing the ignition.

The lack of an immobilizer, a relatively standard piece of technology in other cars, is why Kia and Hyundai theft is so common. Videos explaining How to steal Kia and Hyundai cars With a USB cable jammed in the ignition cylinder, social media platforms were flooded, with the so-called “Kia Challenge” leading to a spike in thefts, and even Fatal accidents.

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, who launched the 2023 investigation that led to Tuesday’s settlement, described the situation as a “crisis” that began “in a boardroom, traveled online, and ended with tragic results when someone stole those cars.”