Automotive Lock Security Going Backwards

Sept. 17, 2012
2013 Hyundai Elantra locks have less security

The Hyundai Elantra has been in North America for the past twenty or so years. The early Elantras are equipped with an eight wafer tumbler lock mechanism having four depths, using the T0001-T1000 code series.

For the 2007 model year, the Elantra began using the M or T0001-2500 code series. The locks contain eight wafer tumblers having six depths of cut. These code series have more security than the T0001-T1001 code series.

In 2011, like many other vehicles, the Elantra began using a two track sidewinder lock mechanism having eight tumblers and five depths of cut. The code series is the T1001-T3500. Hyundai was providing high security locks in a moderately priced compact.

For the 2013 model year, the Hyundai Elantra sedan and coupe are using the M0001-M2500 code series, back to a ten wafer tumbler lock mechanism having five depths of cut, double sided, flat convenience key.

The Hyundai Elantra has been available with transponder based anti-theft system for several years. This was instituted probably to satisfy Canada's regulations.

The Elantra is not stolen often enough to make the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) Top Ten for 2011. In fact, Hyundai does not have a vehicle in the Top Ten.

The question is why. Does Hyundai not feel that a compact vehicle of this price tag does and then does not need the added level of lock security?