LOWELL — Superintendent Greg Hudon reports that the Lowell Police Department has seen a significant increase in motor vehicle thefts recently, with thieves specifically targeting certain models of Kia and Hyundai vehicles that have security vulnerabilities. 

Certain models of Kia and Hyundai built from 2011 to 2021 are susceptible to theft due to improperly functioning engine immobilizer devices, including the Kia Forte, Optima, K5, Rio, Sedona, Sorento, Soul and Sportage, and Hyundai Elantra, Sonata, Venue, Kona, Veloster, Accent, Palisade, Genesis Coupe, Santa Fe, and Tuscon. 

From Oct. 1, 2023 to April 17, 2024, the Lowell Police Department has documented and investigated 70 incidents relating to the theft of Kia and Hyundai vehicles, with February and March seeing a dramatic uptick in incidents. There were 19 incidents in February and 22 in March. Thirteen percent of the incidents have occurred in parking garages. 

The security vulnerability enables certain Kia and Hyundai vehicles to be started without a key or key fob being present. Lowell Police urge owners of Kia and Hyundai vehicles in these years to contact their local dealership to see if they qualify for a free security software update that can help keep their vehicles secure.

The Lowell Police Department learned of the free software upgrades after contacting both auto manufacturers about the issue with thefts. Vehicle owners can contact Kia at (800) 333-4542 and Hyundai at (800) 633-5151 for more information.

For more information on the free software upgrades, visit: https://www.kiatheftsettlement.com/home. 

Additionally, the Lowell Police Department strongly recommends Kia and Hyundai owners utilize security items, such as a steering wheel anti-theft device, which can serve as a visual deterrent to would-be thieves and provide additional security.

Lowell Police have been using social media to warn residents about the issue for months, but the thefts have continued.  

“My goal is to alert all Kia and Hyundai owners in the City of the options available to them to help reduce the risk of their vehicle being targeted,” said Superintendent Hudon. “These safety upgrades can often be done at little or no cost to the owner. If you are affected by this security threat please contact your dealership to have the security issue corrected.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offers the following common-sense tips for helping to prevent vehicle theft: 

  • Take your vehicle’s key; do not leave it in or on your vehicle.
  • Close and lock all windows and doors when you park.
  • Park in well-lit areas if possible.
  • Never leave valuables in your vehicle, especially if they can be seen from outside the vehicle.

For more information on preventing vehicle thefts from the NHTSA, visit: https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/vehicle-theft-prevention.