Washington, D.C. – In response to a significant spike in motor vehicle thefts, particularly targeting Kia and Hyundai vehicles, Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) have announced a proactive initiative to equip residents with free Steering Wheel Locks. Starting this Friday, February 24th, eligible District of Columbia residents who own specific Kia or Hyundai models can obtain a complimentary steering wheel lock from any MPD District station. This measure is a direct collaboration between MPD and Kia and Hyundai corporations, aiming to combat the escalating car theft crisis fueled by a viral social media challenge. This challenge, demonstrating how to easily steal these vehicles using just a USB cable, has led to a dramatic increase in thefts of certain Kia and Hyundai models across the nation, including Washington, D.C.
“Car theft inflicts considerable stress, financial burden, and inconvenience on victims. Moreover, stolen vehicles on our streets pose a significant public safety risk,” stated Mayor Bowser. “Providing these free steering wheel locks is a crucial step in our collaborative effort to proactively prevent crime. I urge all DC residents owning a 2011-2021 Kia or Hyundai vehicle to collect their free steering wheel lock from a District station as quickly as possible. Alongside MPD’s ongoing efforts to deter car theft and hold perpetrators accountable, this initiative empowers residents to take immediate preventative action.”
The distribution of free steering wheel locks will commence this week at all MPD District stations. This offer is available to District residents owning 2011-2021 Kia or Hyundai vehicles on a first-come, first-served basis, and while supplies last.
To qualify for a free steering wheel lock, residents must present the following documentation at an MPD District station:
- Proof of ownership of a 2011-2021 Hyundai or Kia vehicle.
- Verification that the vehicle utilizes a steel key ignition system (vehicles with keyless entry/push-to-start ignitions are not affected by the social media theft trend and are therefore not eligible).
- Proof of current vehicle registration within Washington, D.C.
- A valid District of Columbia identification card.
Beginning Friday, February 24th, eligible residents can collect their steering wheel locks at the following MPD District station locations:
- First District: 101 M Street SW
- Second District: 3320 Idaho Avenue NW
- Third District: 1620 V Street NW
- Fourth District: 6001 Georgia Avenue NW
- Fifth District: 1805 Bladensburg Road NE
- Sixth District: 5002 Hayes Street NE
- Seventh District: 2455 Alabama Ave SE
Distribution is on a first-come, first-served basis, and residents are advised to check the availability of steering wheel locks at their local District station by visiting mpdc.dc.gov/autotheft before going in person.
The rise in Kia and Hyundai thefts in DC mirrors a national trend. In 2022, Washington, DC, recorded 3,761 motor vehicle thefts, marking an 8% increase from the previous year. The surge is directly linked to a social media trend that emerged in the summer of 2022, demonstrating a simple method to steal these specific vehicle models. The impact of this trend is starkly illustrated by the monthly theft statistics: in January 2022, there were 25 reported Kia and Hyundai thefts, while by December 2022, this number had soared to 150 incidents. This dramatic increase underscores the urgent need for preventative measures like the steering wheel lock initiative.
Beyond obtaining a free steering wheel lock, MPD urges all residents and visitors to adopt comprehensive vehicle safety practices to deter theft:
- Never leave your vehicle engine running unattended. Even for brief moments, an unattended running vehicle is an easy target for opportunistic thieves.
- Always turn off your vehicle completely and remove the key fob. Modern key fobs can sometimes allow a vehicle to be started even when not physically inserted in the ignition, so removal is crucial.
- Ensure your car doors are locked at all times. This simple step is a fundamental deterrent against vehicle entry and theft.
- Take your keys with you without exception. Never leave spare keys inside the vehicle, even in hidden compartments, as thieves are often aware of common hiding places.
- Maintain heightened awareness of your surroundings. Being alert and observant can help you identify suspicious activity and potential threats.
- Opt for parking in well-lit areas or secure parking garages whenever possible. Visibility and security measures in parking locations can significantly reduce the risk of theft.
- Remove USB cables and other accessories from plain sight when the vehicle is not in use. While USB cables are specifically linked to the Kia/Hyundai thefts, removing valuables reduces temptation for break-ins in general.
- Consider investing in additional anti-theft devices. Beyond steering wheel locks, alarms, immobilizers, and GPS tracking systems can provide enhanced vehicle security.
- Contact your Kia or Hyundai dealership to inquire about available software updates. Manufacturers are actively addressing the security vulnerabilities exploited in the social media challenge and may offer software updates to mitigate these risks.
- Immediately call 911 if you observe any suspicious activity or potential car theft in progress. Prompt reporting is crucial for police response and crime prevention.
“We are increasingly seeing stolen vehicles being used to perpetrate violent crimes within our city,” emphasized Chief Contee. “This is simply unacceptable. The Metropolitan Police Department is resolutely committed to ensuring the safety of every resident and visitor in our city and holding accountable those who engage in reckless and violent criminal behavior. Preventing vehicle theft is a vital component of this commitment.”
For further information on motor vehicle safety tips and additional resources, please visit mpdc.dc.gov.
