Kia and Hyundai Owners Targeted in Wicomico Car Thefts
Salisbury, MD - The Wicomico County Sheriff's Office is warning residents about a rise in motor vehicle thefts across the county. Detectives say thefts, attempted thefts, and thefts from vehicles have all increased in recent weeks.
According to the Sheriff's Office, Kia and Hyundai vehicles have become a particular target.
Detectives are urging owners of these models to take extra steps to protect their cars.
The Sheriff's Office says the issue centers on certain older Kia and Hyundai models built without an engine immobilizer. These vehicles have been specifically targeted using a theft method that has spread across the country in recent years.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that Hyundai and Kia have developed anti-theft software to fight this exact problem. The update changes the vehicle's alarm and ignition system so the correct key is required to start the car.
Hyundai says certain 2011 through 2022 models without an immobilizer may qualify for the free software upgrade. Owners can check their eligibility using their VIN through Hyundai's anti-theft program.
Kia is offering a similar free update for eligible vehicles. Owners are asked to contact an authorized Kia dealer with their VIN to see if their vehicle qualifies.
Not every Kia or Hyundai is affected. Eligibility depends on the year, make, model, and trim level of the vehicle.
The Sheriff's Office also recommends residents check for open safety recalls through the NHTSA recall lookup tool. Owners can search using either their VIN or their license plate number.
Beyond the software fixes, deputies are asking all residents to take basic precautions. Lock your vehicle every time, even at home, and never leave keys or a key fob inside.
Valuables, wallets, and electronics should be removed from vehicles or kept out of sight. Parking in well-lit areas and using a garage when possible can also help.
A visible anti-theft device, like a steering wheel lock, is recommended for Kia and Hyundai owners especially. A GPS tracker or the manufacturer's built in tracking system can also help recover a stolen vehicle.
Deputies also remind residents not to leave a vehicle running unattended and to keep windows, doors, and sunroofs closed and secured. Vehicle titles and other important documents should never be left inside a car.
If someone finds their vehicle was broken into or tampered with, the Sheriff's Office asks that they avoid touching or disturbing it. This helps preserve any evidence detectives may be able to recover.
Anyone whose vehicle is stolen should contact law enforcement right away and provide the VIN, registration, and license plate number. Owners should also notify their insurance company and share any tracking information with police rather than trying to recover the vehicle themselves.
The Sheriff's Office says it continues to investigate these thefts and is asking the public to stay alert. Anyone with information can call the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office at 410-548-4891 or submit a tip anonymously through Crime Solvers of the Lower Eastern Shore.
