Yahoo Movies TikTok trend adding to risk of car theft across Kansas City. What drivers should know
Nearly 1,500 vehicles were stolen in Kansas City since the start of 2023, according to the Kansas City Police Department. Last year, the department recorded nearly 6,000 vehicle thefts.
Across the country, Hyundai and Kia car models seem to be increasingly susceptible to theft because of information spreading around social media. KCPD spokespeople said it’s a trend in the city, too. Of the 1,500 vehicles stolen so far this year, 302 were Kia and 207 were Hyundai. That means more than a third of vehicles stolen in Kansas City were from those two companies.
Some attribute the uptick in Hyundai and Kia thefts to a TikTok challenge that spread across the country, with videos detailing how to steal the cars. The targets in the videos are certain Kia and Hyundai vehicles that use a key to start the car, not a push button.
These models lack immobilizers, and a USB cable can be used to bypass the ignition system.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the challenge resulted in at least 14 reported crashes and eight fatalities.
In response to car theft, Hyundai and Kia have developed theft-deterrent software for millions of vehicles, according to the NHTSA.
Any Hyundai or Kia owner that doesn’t have a car immobilizer — an electronic device that prevents a car from starting unless you have the right key — can receive one for free.
These immobilizers update the car’s theft alarm software to extend the alarm’s length from 30 seconds to one minute. The new software also requires the key to be in the ignition switch to turn the car on.
In a press release, NHTSA said around 3.8 million Hyundais and 4.5 million Kias will receive the immobilizer.
Hyundai — in addition to providing new immobilizers — will give customers a window sticker alerting thieves that the vehicle is equipped with anti-theft protection.
Hyundai owners can enter their vehicle identification number in this online tool at this website to see when they are eligible to schedule their upgrade.
Kia is also rolling out its software updates in a phased approach. The company said in a statement that they’re notifying owners by mail when the software is available for their car.
The letter tells owners to bring their cars to the closest Kia dealership to receive the free car immobilizer update. Installing the software will take less than an hour.
Both car manufacturers have provided steering wheel locks to law enforcement agencies in 12 states to help prevent car theft. KCMO’s police department confirmed they had no steering wheel locks to give to the community, and Kansas City, Kansas, police department could not confirm if they received these locks from the manufacturers.
If you own a Hyundai or Kia, the NHTSA urges you to contact Hyundai at 800-633-5151 or Kia at 800-333-4542 for information on the free update.
TIPS TO AVOID CAR THEFT
A spokesperson with the NHTSA advises drivers to use common sense when parking and exiting a vehicle and incorporate the following tips into their routine:
Take your vehicle’s key; do not leave it in or on your vehicle.
Close and lock all windows and doors when you park.
Park in well-lit areas if possible.
Never leave valuables in your car, especially if they’re visible from the outside.
Never leave your car unoccupied and running, even for a short period of time.
The NHTSA said that summers are the worst season for vehicle theft.
WHAT DO I DO IF MY CAR IS STOLEN?
If your vehicle is stolen, the NHTSA advises that you contact your local police department immediately and file a stolen vehicle report.
You will need a copy of the police report or a case number to provide to your insurance company. You may also be asked to provide the following information:
License plate number;
Make, model, and color of your vehicle
VIN and any identifying characteristics
Contact your insurance company to file a claim within 24 hours of your vehicle being stolen.
If you find your vehicle before local authorities do, contact the police and your insurance company as soon as possible.
