INDIANAPOLIS — A growing number of Hyundai and Kia vehicles are being stolen in Indianapolis.
This information comes after 13News contacted IMPD about a social media trend happening nationwide.
In the videos, thieves target certain Kia and Hyundai models because the car can start with a USB cord instead of a key.
Kia told us vehicles being targeted by this crime wave are from 2011 to 2021 and those that use a steel key and "insert/turn-to-start" ignition systems. Key fob and "push-button-to-start" vehicles are not being targeted.
The vehicles are stolen easily because they don't have the security feature called an immobilizer. An immobilizer tells the car that it is a key in the ignition, not another tool.
IMPD said Wednesday that in the past six months, the number of model-year 2011-2021 Kias stolen increased to 130. During the same time frame the previous year, 59 were stolen.
Additionally, the percentage of total vehicles stolen in Indianapolis which were Kias or Hyundais increased from 4% in 2021 (August 2021-January 2022) to 19% in the last month alone.
Because of the spike in nationwide thefts, some insurance companies said they won't write a new auto policy for people with models missing the security feature.
State Farm said this move is temporary and only in some states. The representative would not say if Indiana is included on the list.
While Kia and Hyundai both said they're working on a software upgrade, it's smart in the meantime to use a steering wheel lock or install a GPS tracking device.
Other tips IMPD is providing include:
- Install quality video surveillance cameras and alarms.
- Leave porch lights on.
- Call police regarding suspicious people.
- Establish relationships with neighbors and fellow business owners.
- Contact dealerships regarding anti-theft options for the vehicle.
- Keep information, such as the make, model, model year, license plate and Vehicle Identification Number easily accessible in the event your vehicle is stolen.
IMPD adds that overall car thefts are down over 12% over last year.
Anyone with information about the people involved in the thefts of Kia or Hyundai vehicles to report information anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers at 317-262-TIPS.