Insuring some cars may be difficult
Did you know insurance companies can blacklist certain vehicles? If you're a driver of a Kia or Hyundai model between the years 2015 - 2021, pay attention because this may apply to you. Two major insurance providers, State Farm and Progressive, confirmed that they will no longer write policies for several Kia and Hyundai models. This means if you're looking to insure one of these models, depending on where you live, you won't be able to find coverage with these insurance companies. If you already have a policy with one of these insurance carriers, they may not renew it when the term ends.
What models are affected?
According to this list published by TheDrive, the following models are affected:
- 2015-2021 Hyundai Accent (all body styles)
- 2015-2021 Hyundai Elantra (two-door and four-door)
- 2015-2021 Hyundai Kona
- 2015-2021 Hyundai Santa Fe
- 2015-2021 Hyundai Tucson
- 2015-2018 Hyundai Veloster
- 2015-2021 Kia Forte
- 2015-2021 Kia Optima
- 2015-2016 Kia Optima Hybrid
- 2015-2021 Kia Rio (all body styles)
- 2015-2021 Kia Sedona
- 2015-2016 Kia Sorento
- 2015-2021 Kia Soul
- 2015-2021 Kia Sportage
The reason some model dates are not affected is because some models did receive standard engine immobilizers earlier. For example this feature was added to the Kia Optima Hybrid in 2016.[3]
Where are customers affected?
In its statement to USA Today, State Farm said due to increased theft of these models, it would no longer be accepting new customer applications in "some states." Likewise, Progressive's statement said, "in some geographic areas we have increased our rates and limited our sale of new insurance policies for some of these models."[4]
So how do you know if you might be affected in your state or geography? TheDrive says the list allegedly applies to Louisiana, Georgia, Oregon, Washington and Pennsylvania[3]. CNN reported this affecting specific cities including Denver and St. Louis, where the cars' theft was rampant.[4]
The best way to find out if you're affected is to ask your insurance company. If you are covered by one of these carriers currently and drive one of the affected models, you can ask if they plan to renew your policy. If they say no, you can start making plans for moving to a new carrier. Remember, this only applies to writing new policies. If you are not currently covered by one of these carriers, you may not have the option to consider them when looking for coverage.