HomeBlogArticlesKia, Hyundai brand thefts are increasing; police take aim at social networks

Kia, Hyundai brand thefts are increasing; police take aim at social networks

by webmaster

Jun 30, 2022

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CINCINNATI, Ohio — Two makes of car in particular have been reported stolen. on the rise after gaining popularity on social media, police say.

In Ohio, the Forest Park Police Department is warning residents of a local increase in thefts from Kia and Hyundai cars, similar to those reported in other cities across the country.

Thefts are primarily from Kia cars newer than 2011 and Hyundai cars newer than 2015.

Police said thefts have been on the rise nationwide after tips showing how to start these cars without the use of a key were posted on social media.

Forest Park police say there have been six reported break-ins of these makes of vehicles since June 21 at large apartment complexes overnight.

In statements sent to USA TODAY on Friday, both Kia and Hyundai said that all of their vehicles “meet or exceed” Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. The manufacturers also said that engine immobilizersor anti-theft systems, are standard equipment on all of their newer cars.

“Kia America is aware of an increase in vehicle thefts from certain trim level vehicles. Beginning with the current 2022 model year, all Kia vehicles have an engine immobilizer installed as standard,” Kia wrote.

“Hyundai Motor America is concerned about the increase in local auto thefts. The safety and well-being of our customers and the community is and will continue to be our top priority,” Hyundai said.

In Wisconsin:More than 11,500 vehicles were stolen in the Milwaukee area in 2021. The trend doesn’t seem to be stopping anytime soon.

In 2021, Milwaukee experienced a wave of carjackings attributed to a gang called the “Kia Boys”.

Milwaukee officials said the increase in car thefts was due to more young people not going to school and a design flaw in some newer models of cars made by Kia, Hyundai and Honda that makes them easier to steal. .