Hyundai, Kia Remain Popular Vehicles to Steal in Las Cruces

The number of stolen Hyundai and Kia automobiles continues to be high in Las Cruces, so police are again reminding owners of those cars to update manufacturer suggested security software that will help prevent the vehicles from being stolen.

So far in 2024, 70 Hyundai and 38 Kia automobiles have been reported stolen in Las Cruces. In particular, the Elantra model appears to be the most frequently stolen Hyundai. Of the 70 Hyundai vehicles stolen so far in 2024, 49 were Elantras.

The software updates were announced in 2023 by Hyundai and Kia, respectively. The updates require the ignition key to be inserted before the engine can start and extends the length of the vehicle’s audible alarm from 30 seconds to one minute.

The Las Cruces Police Department encourages owners of Hyundai and Kia vehicles to install the new software at their earliest convenience. Owners of these vehicles should ask their local dealer for the software update. Customers can also contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151 or Kia at 1-800-333-4542 for more information.

For owners of key-start – not push button – Hyundai models from 2011 to 2022, and Kia models from 2011 to 2021, the Las Cruces Police Department has free steering wheel locks available.

Steering wheel locks are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and can be picked up from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays at the Las Cruces Police Department, 217 E. Picacho Ave. One steering wheel lock will be provided per vehicle owner while supplies last.

Owners who wish to obtain a free steering wheel lock are asked to bring current registration that proves ownership.

Las Cruces police encourage owners of all automobiles to consider installing and utilizing an audible anti-theft alarm system that also prevents the engine from starting without a key.

Police also ask owners of all automobiles to refrain from leaving keys and firearms inside an unattended vehicle, and always lock doors when leaving a car parked.