Car burglars in Columbus are increasingly targeting Hyundai and Kia models, accounting for 40% of the stolen vehicles this year. The Columbus Dispatch reports on this trend.
Statistics from law enforcement reveal that out of 4,013 reported vehicle thefts in Columbus up to July 7th this year, approximately 38% were Kia and Hyundai vehicles. This percentage marks a significant surge from 2021, where these two brands only constituted 10% of thefts.
Car thefts in Columbus have been on the rise over the past year, with attempted and successful thefts increasing by a third compared to the same period in 2021.
Certain models of Kia and Hyundai are viewed as easy targets by thieves due to their vulnerabilities. These vehicles can be accessed without setting off alarms, typically through the rear window. The thieves then exploit weaknesses in the vehicle’s security systems, such as breaking into the steering column to start the car without a key or utilizing a USB port.
Most modern cars are equipped with immobilizers that interact with a chip in the key fob. This security feature ensures that the car won’t start if the ignition is tampered with using unauthorized methods. However, a significant number of Kia and Hyundai models with key-start systems lack this immobilizer, making them susceptible to traditional theft techniques.
The theft of Kia and Hyundai vehicles has gained notoriety, with incidents inspiring online trends. Car Bibles highlighted a viral rap song about stealing these Korean cars in December, following a series of thefts in Milwaukee attributed to a group known as the Kia Boys. The situation has escalated to the point where Milwaukee authorities are considering legal action against the automakers due to the high number of stolen vehicles.
Kia has responded by incorporating engine immobilizers in their 2022 models to prevent unauthorized starting. Hyundai is implementing similar measures. Reports indicate that this technology has been effective, with a Reddit user testifying that the immobilizer thwarted an attempted theft of their vehicle.
The absence of immobilizers in some vehicles available for purchase may surprise consumers outside the US. Countries like Australia mandated this technology for all vehicles as early as 2001, and other regions have followed suit to combat auto theft.
Word spreads quickly about vehicle vulnerabilities, leading to a rapid increase in thefts when Kia and Hyundai vehicles were identified as easy targets. Rebuilding consumer trust and brand reputation may take time. Meanwhile, owners are advised to consider using steering locks as an additional security measure.
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