In response to the rise in thefts of Hyundai and Kia vehicles, our task force reached out to both manufacturers and secured free steering wheel locks that will be distributed through participating local law enforcement agencies. The locks should be delivered in the coming weeks, and we will post an update when they are available to be picked up at the following locations:
Pierce County Sheriff’s Department
Tacoma Police Department
Lakewood Police Department
Puyallup Police Department
Renton Police Department
Federal Way Police Department
Auburn Police Department
In order to receive a free lock, you will need to provide your registration so we can verify that you are an owner/lessee of one of the affected models:
Hyundai: 2015-2021 Accent, Elantra, Kona, Santa Fe, Sonata, and Tucson; 2015-2018 Veloster
Kia: 2015-2021 Forte, Optima, Rio, Sedona, Soul, and Sportage; 2015-2016 Optima Hybrid and Sorento
*Background Information*
Certain Hyundai and Kia vehicles are being stolen at a higher rate than other vehicles due to a coordinated effort on social media. Criminals are targeting Hyundai and Kia vehicles without engine immobilizers.
•If your vehicle has a push-button start, it will have an immobilizer
•If your vehicle has a key ignition, it MAY NOT have an immobilizer
*Statement from Hyundai Motor America*
“In response to increasing thefts targeting our vehicles without push-button ignitions and immobilizing anti-theft devices in the United States, Hyundai Motor America has made engine immobilizers standard on all vehicles produced as of November 2021. Additionally, Hyundai has taken a series of actions to deter thefts of affected vehicles, including an upcoming software update scheduled to be available beginning in March and provided at no cost to customers.
“In the interim, Hyundai is also providing free steering wheel locks, as available, to select law enforcement agencies across the country for distribution to local residents who own or lease affected models. We apologize for the inconvenience to affected customers. Owners may also bring their vehicles to a local Hyundai dealer for the purchase and installation of a customized security kit.”