In response to the rise in thefts of Hyundai and Kia vehicles, the Puget Sound Auto Theft Task Force secured free steering wheel locks, which will be distributed through participating local law enforcement agencies. The locks are now available to be picked up at the following locations (please check websites for public lobby hours):
Pierce County Sheriff’s Department
South Hill Precinct
271 John Bananola Way E, South Hill
Lakewood Police Department
9401 Lakewood Dr SW
Puyallup Police Department
311 W Pioneer
Edgewood Police Department
2224 104th Ave E
Eatonville Police Department
201 Center St W
University Place Police Department
*available beginning Feb 28*
3612 Drexler Dr W
Bonney Lake Police Department
18421 Veterans Memorial Dr E
Fife Police Department
3737 Pacific Hwy E
Federal Way Police Department
33325 8th Ave S
Auburn Police Department
340 E Main St
Des Moines Police Department
21900 11th Ave S
SeaTac Police Department
4800 S 188th St
Tukwila Police Department
*proof of residency required*
To receive a free lock, owners will need to bring their registration and key to show that they own a 2011-21 key-start Hyundai or Kia.
It is important to note that the Puget Sound Auto Theft Task Force, in partnership with Kia and Hyundai, is providing these devices to aid in deterring vehicle theft. The locks do not guarantee protection from theft.
Background
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 a vehicle has a push-button start, it will have an immobilizer
•If a vehicle has a key ignition, it MAY NOT have an immobilizer