Manhattan Beach police warn of rising Kia and Hyundai vehicle thefts

The Manhattan Beach Police Department has issued warnings to drivers following a surge in thefts involving Kia and Hyundai vehicles during the week of August 6-12. Many models sold between 2011 and 2022 are vulnerable because they lack engine immobilizers, a weakness highlighted by a viral TikTok trend that demonstrated how to start these vehicles without a key using a USB cable and a screwdriver.

Authorities recommend that owners use steering wheel locks, keep doors locked, remove valuables, and install GPS trackers. While automakers have offered free software upgrades and steering wheel locks, an estimated 4.9 million vehicles in the United States still require fixes. California has the highest number of vulnerable vehicles, with approximately 506,000 cars on the road. Additionally, the two brands recently agreed to a $9 million class action settlement for victims related to this issue.