Alsip Police Giving Out Free Anti-Theft Devices To Hyundai Owners

ALSIP, IL — Got a Hyundai? The Alsip Police Department is giving out free steering wheel lock devices to Alsip residents this week thanks to a donation from Hyundai to help you thwart car thieves.

Hyundais and Kias have soared to the top of “most stolen” lists due to social media videos showing how to break the vehicles’ steering columns and start them with a USB device as a key. In 2022, over 7,000 Hyundais and Kias were stolen in Chicago alone. Some insurance companies have stopped insuring Hyundai and Kias.

The Hyundai 2016-2021 models use a plain metal key to start the vehicle. Vehicles that rely on a coded key fob and push-button starter are not affected.

The free device will be available while supplies last at the Alsip Police Department, 4500 W. 123rd St., Alsip. The devices can be picked up from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, while supplies last. The following requirements must be met:

• Available to Alsip residents only with proof of residency, e.g. driver’s license, state ID other government issued ID.
• Devices are available for 2010-2021 Hyundai.
• Vehicles must have a current Alsip vehicle sticker and be registered in Alsip (bring Illinois registration card).

Questions? Call the Alsip Police at 708-385-6902, ext. 2249.

Following is an official statement from Hyundai:

We remain concerned about the increase in thefts of certain Hyundai vehicles that have been targeted in a coordinated social media campaign. Currently, Hyundai provides steering wheel locks, as available, to law enforcement agencies in impacted areas. In addition, Hyundai will provide two other options for owners of these earlier model year vehicles targeted by thieves.

Hyundai has released a glass break sensor security kit that targets the method of entry used by thieves to break into these vehicles. These kits are available for purchase and installation at Hyundai dealerships and Compustar authorized installers across the country. The MSRP for the kit is $170, and the estimated cost for installation may vary by location.

Hyundai is also developing a software update to further secure these targeted vehicles. We anticipate that this software update will become available for certain vehicles in the first half of 2023, with updates for other vehicles following thereafter.

Please note that all Hyundai vehicles meet or exceed Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Some earlier models, without a push-button ignition, do not have engine immobilizers. In November 2021, engine immobilizers became standard on all Hyundai vehicles produced.
Customers who have questions can contact the Hyundai Customer Care Center at 800-633-5151.