Apopka police offering free steering wheel locks for select Hyundai and Kia vehicles

From the Apopka Police Department

The Apopka Police Department has partnered with Hyundai and Kia to offer free steering wheel locks due to the rise in Kia and Hyundai vehicle thefts.

Hyundai has joined sister company Kia in offering free steering wheel locks to owners of some cars concerned about a spike in thefts. Certain older Hyundai and Kia vehicles became common targets for thieves after social media videos in late 2021 taught viewers how to steal them with a screwdriver and a USB cable.

Base models of some 2015-or-newer Hyundai and 2011-or-newer Kia cars lack an engine immobilizer. This common anti-theft device prevents a vehicle from starting unless the correct transponder is built into the smart key.

More expensive trims of older Hyundai and Kia models tend to have immobilizers. But base models don’t, making them easier prey than most vehicles for car thieves.

Both Hyundai and Kia say all their 2022 and 2023 models now use immobilizers.

In response to the increasing incidents of vehicle theft, Kia and Hyundai are providing steering wheel locks for the listed years and models of vehicles.

If your vehicle qualifies, you can obtain a lock from the Apopka Police Department Community Policing Unit located at 112 E.Sixth St., Apopka. You must be a resident of Apopka, present a valid identification, and proof of ownership.

These locks will be available by scheduling an appointment. Email Apopka Police Department Community Policing/Crime Prevention Unit Sergeant Jason Wiggins at JWiggins@Apopka.net to set up an appointment.

Apply for steering wheel lock online

The Apopka Chief and The Planter are weekly community newspapers, independently owned and family operated, that have served the greater Apopka area in Central Florida since 1923 and 1965 respectively.

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