How to Reset the Anti-Theft System on a Hyundai Sonata
To reset your Hyundai Sonata’s anti-theft system, you can use your key or your unique reset code.
Written by Cameron Thiessen
Reviewed by Amy Bobinger
Table of Contents
- How to reset the Hyundai Sonata anti-theft system
- What does the anti-theft system on a Hyundai Sonata do?
- What can trigger the Hyundai anti-theft system?
- Can the Hyundai Sonata anti-theft system lower your insurance rate?
- How to save on Hyundai Sonata insurance
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If your Hyundai Sonata’s anti-theft system is not allowing you to start the vehicle, try using a spare key if you have one. You may also need to remove metal objects, cell phones, or other transponders/smart keys from the area, since they might be interfering with your Sonata’s immobilizer system.
Not every Hyundai vehicle has been equipped with an engine immobilizer, but they’ve become standard on all Hyundais made since November 2021. If your Sonata has one, consider yourself lucky—older Hyundai and
Kia
models without immobilizers have become common prey for car thieves.Of course, you might not be so glad that your Sonata has an immobilizer if you can’t turn your van on due to its anti-theft security system. Luckily,
Jerry
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super app—has a few tricks for you to try before you throw in the towel and call the shop. Plus, we’ll help you find the best plan for low Hyundai Sonata insurance costs
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Compare insurance quotes from 50+ insurance companies with Jerry in under 45 seconds
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If your Sonata’s immobilizer light is blinking and your car just won’t start, the Hyundai Sonata owner’s manual suggests turning the ignition switch to the LOCK/OFF position before attempting to turn the ignition again.
Newer Sonatas have a push-button start. When you get into your Sonata, the car senses your smart key, allowing the push button to activate so you can start the car. If this isn’t working, there’s either something wrong with your smart key, or there’s another issue preventing your car from recognizing the code that the key’s transponder is sending to the computer.
The owner’s manual also suggests that other keys might be interfering with the signal that your smart key is trying to send to your vehicle’s computer. Try removing metal objects, cell phones, or other keys that might be near your smart key, then try to start the vehicle again.
If this still doesn’t work, the owner’s manual says to contact your local Hyundai dealership. Be aware that any attempt to alter the system yourself could render your vehicle inoperable.
Before you do call the Hyundai dealership, make sure to try your spare key if you have one.
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What does the anti-theft system on a Hyundai Sonata do?
Your Hyundai Sonata’s anti-theft engine immobilizer system is connected to the car’s fuel system. It receives a signal from your smart key with a unique passcode that confirms that the correct key is present.
This system prevents thieves from using other keys to start your car. It also prevents your car from being hot-wired. If an attempt is made to start the vehicle and the transponder key is not present, it will activate the immobilizer system.
How to program a new transponder key
The Hyundai Sonata owner’s manual specifically says not to attempt to add new devices to your Sonata’s programming on your own. It could void your warranty if you do. The best move is to contact your Sonata dealership if you cannot get your vehicle out of anti-theft mode.
If you have an older Sonata, you might be able to use the code on the metal tag that came with your keys to reset your security system. You’re best off finding the owner’s manual for your specific Sonata model year and following the instructions therein. If you can’t find yours, look online for a PDF copy of your Sonata’s specific model year. You can also
log in to your Hyundai account
to get personalized resources directly from the source.What can trigger the Hyundai anti-theft system?
Any attempt to enter or start a Hyundai Sonata with an anti-theft engine immobilizer system will trigger this system to activate if it does not recognize the correct code from your transponder key or smart key.
Unfortunately, interference or a malfunctioning key can also cause this to occur. Your car may not be starting because your key has a dead battery. A broken door handle could also be the culprit. If you’re not sure what’s causing the problem, make a trip to a trusted Hyundai mechanic.
Can the Hyundai Sonata anti-theft system lower your insurance rate?
Anti-theft devices can lower your insurance premiums by 5% to 25% if you have comprehensive coverage. This is because comprehensive coverage covers theft, so if your car is less prone to theft, insuring it involves less risk for the insurer.
Hyundais are also known for being fairly reliable, and this could also contribute to a lower auto insurance rate. Plus, parts are fairly cheap and easy to source.
Hyundai also does a great job equipping its new vehicles with plenty of standard safety technology. Vehicles with top-rated accident mitigation and driver assistance technology often are given
car insurance discounts
since this technology makes you less likely to have to make a claim.If you have an older Sonata, you can always add aftermarket anti-theft devices such as a catalytic converter strap, an active alarm system, or even a steering wheel lock. This extra equipment could qualify you for even more insurance savings.
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How to save on Hyundai Sonata insurance
Your Sonata’s anti-theft system plays an important role in preventing your car from being stolen, but thieves are always coming up with new ways of getting around these systems. That’s why it’s still a good idea to equip yourself with
comprehensive insurance coverage
.Comprehensive coverage will increase the overall cost of your
car insurance
, but it’s usually worth it, especially for newer cars. Plus, with Jerry
in your corner, you’ll be able to afford more coverage for a better price!If you want to make sure you’re not overpaying for insurance, download Jerry’s
trustworthy insurance comparison app
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