Vancouver, Wash. – The Vancouver Police Department and the Clark County Sheriff’s Office have seen recent spikes in of thefts of Kia’s and Hyundai’s over the past several weeks. Most of the suspects are juveniles and several witnesses to the car thefts have been threatened with violence by the suspects. Several firearms that were inside vehicles at the time of the thefts were also stolen. 

This national trend effects multiple models of both Kia’s and Hyundai’s built between 2011-2021. Below is a list of models that may be more vulnerable to theft: 

Hyundai Models

2011–2022 Accent

2011–2022 Elantra

2013–2017 Elantra GT

2013–2014 Elantra Coupe

2011–2012 Elantra Touring

2011–2014 Genesis Coupe

2018–2022 Kona

2020–2021 Palisade

2011–2012, 2019–2022 Santa Fe

2013–2018, 2019 Santa Fe, Santa Fe XL

2013–2018 Santa Fe Sport

2011–2019 Sonata

2011–2022 Tucson

2012–2017, 2019–2021 Veloster

2020–2021 Venue

2011–2012 Veracruz

Kia Models

2011–2021 Forte

2021–2022 K5

2011–2020 Optima

2011–2021 Rio

2011–2021 Sedona

2021–2022 Seltos

2010–2022 Soul

2011–2022 Sorento

2011–2022 Sportage

Law enforcement is encouraging anyone with one of the make/models above to check with their local Kia or Hyundai dealer to see if their vehicle is eligible for a manufacturer security software update; consider using a steering wheel lock device; park in well-lit areas, preferably with visible security cameras; consider putting a tracking device in the vehicle; consider installing an alarm system. Also, please do not leave firearms or other valuables inside your vehicle. 

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