Photo: JUNG YEON-JE / AFP / Getty Images
Photo: Getty Images
The Vancouver Police Department and the Clark County Sheriff’s Office have seen recent spikes in of thefts of Kia’s and Hyundai’s over the past several weeks. Most of the suspects are juveniles and several witnesses to the car thefts have been threatened with violence by the suspects. Several firearms that were inside vehicles at the time of the thefts were also stolen.
This national trend effects multiple models of both Kia’s and Hyundai’s built between 2011-2021. Below is a list of models that may be more vulnerable to theft:
Hyundai Models
2011–2022 Accent
2011–2022 Elantra
2013–2017 Elantra GT
2013–2014 Elantra Coupe
2011–2012 Elantra Touring
2011–2014 Genesis Coupe
2018–2022 Kona
2020–2021 Palisade
2011–2012, 2019–2022 Santa Fe
2013–2018, 2019 Santa Fe, Santa Fe XL
2013–2018 Santa Fe Sport
2011–2019 Sonata
2011–2022 Tucson
2012–2017, 2019–2021 Veloster
2020–2021 Venue
2011–2012 Veracruz
Kia Models
2011–2021 Forte
2021–2022 K5
2011–2020 Optima
2011–2021 Rio
2011–2021 Sedona
2021–2022 Seltos
2010–2022 Soul
2011–2022 Sorento
2011–2022 Sportage
Law enforcement is encouraging anyone with one of the make/models above to check with their local Kia or Hyundai dealer to see if their vehicle is eligible for a manufacturer security software update; consider using a steering wheel lock device; park in well-lit areas, preferably with visible security cameras; consider putting a tracking device in the vehicle; consider installing an alarm system. Also, please do not leave firearms or other valuables inside your vehicle.
Source: Vancouver Police