So many Hyundai and Kia models are being stolen in Milwaukee that the two automakers are working with local authorities to crack down on thefts.
Year-to-date car thefts have jumped almost 2.5 times since 2020 in Milwaukee and in the first six months of this year, thefts of Hyundai and Kia models soared by 25 times.
Speaking with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, the owner of a local car-repair facility said local criminals have found late model Hyundai and Kia models particularly easy to steal.
“Kia thieves know they can break the back window without setting off an alarm, unlock the door, quickly peel back the steering column, and either use a screwdriver or a USB port to crank the car and go.”
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The city is now considering suing Hyundai and Kia under public nuisance laws, claiming that they are “directly responsible” for the increase in thefts as certain vehicles don’t have engine immobilizer.
In response, Hyundai and Kia confirmed to Car and Driver that it is working with the Milwaukee Police Department and other local officials and departments to distribute free anti-theft steering-wheel locks to owners of vehicles without immobilizers. A spokesperson from Hyundai added that all of the brand’s current models have engine immobilizers as standard while Kia added that all of its 2022 models will have them fitted as standard equipment.
“Auto thefts are clearly related to reckless driving,” Milwaukee police Chief of Staff Nick DeSiato told WISN 2. “Kia and Hyundai are driving our auto theft numbers citywide.”
There have been nearly 10,000 vehicle thefts in Milwaukee this year, a significant jump from the 4,509 reported in 2020 and the 3,487 recorded in 2019.
