SAN MARCOS, Texas — The San Marcos Police Department is tackling the increase in car thefts in certain Hyundai and Kia car models.
The department wants drivers with these types of vehicles to stop by and pick up a free steering wheel lock.
This push comes after the "Kia Challenge" has been circulating around social media. The illegal trend has thieves targeting Kia and Hyundai vehicles and steeling them. The thieve are using a phone charger cable, breaking into the steering column and jamming the USB into parts of the car to start it.
In order to receive the free steering wheel lock, you must be a San Marcos resident and own a specific model of Hyundai and Kia.
Below is the list of eligible vehicles:
Hyundai
- 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
- 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
If you would like to get a free steering wheel lock, police say there is a limited number available and it is on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Austin Police Department (APD) has also said you can protect your car from thieves by using tracking devices such as AirTags and investing in a car alarm system.