West Orange Police Hope To Combat Car Thefts With Free Steering Locks

WEST ORANGE, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of the Township of West Orange. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

New Jersey State Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin issued an advisory to owners of Hyundais and Kias, Platkin stated, “A nationwide trend has started impacting New Jersey in recent months, where thieves are targeting Hyundai and Kia vehicles due to a viral social media challenge that provides step-by-step instructions for thieves looking to capitalize on their anti-theft vulnerabilities. The target of these thefts are Hyundai and Kia vehicles lacking push-button ignitions and immobilizing anti-theft devices.” An additional concern is that these stolen vehicles can contribute to violent crimes.

Law enforcement agencies across New Jersey have been aware of this issue that began trending on social media last year. Criminals are targeting Hyundai vehicles without engine immobilizers. There is no quality issue or defect with these vehicles, and they all meet or exceed Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

In a media statement issued by Hyundai Motor America it confirmed the company is commitment to the quality and integrity of their products and plans to continue supporting the communities affected by this theft issue. Hyundai has expedited the roll out of free anti-theft software upgrade for affected vehicles. All of the nearly 4 million vehicles involved will be eligible for an upgrade that is designed to prevent the vehicles from unwanted starting. The method for theft was popularized on TikTok and other social media channels and quickly spread. To see if your vehicle is eligible for an upgrade go to https://www.njoag.gov/hyundaik...

The West Orange Police Department is working in cooperation with Hyundai to supply town residents whose vehicles are not eligible for a software upgrade with free steering wheel locks. It should be noted that these steering wheel locks are being supplied by Hyundai and that Hyundai and Kia are two different companies operating in the United States.

A limited supply is available and there are several options for vehicle owners to receive one. Residents can visit West Orange Police Headquarters during regular business hours Monday through Friday between 8:30a.m and 4:30p.m. No appointment is necessary. They also will be available for pick-up by appointment only at either the Groves Police Substation at 92 Washington Street or the Valley Police Substation at 549 Valley Road. Home delivery by police personnel is available 24/7 as well.

Please contact Sergeant Ed Diaz by email at: ediaz@wodp.org or by phone at: (973) 323-1838 to reserve yours or arrange for a delivery.

Don’t forget to visit the Patch West Orange Facebook page. Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Learn more about advertising on Patch here.