SJPD reports decline in Kia and Hyundai theft after recent spike
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- While Kia and Hyundai's anti-theft software upgrades have helped deter car thieves, it's still a challenge the St. Joseph Police Department is actively following.
Certain Hyundai and Kia models were among the most stolen vehicles in 2021 and 2023, due to the absence of engine immobilizers, making them easy targets and fueling viral social media trends like the ‘Kia Boys.’
“Most of the base models from 2011 to around 2021 for Kia and Hyundai were made without immobilizers, which means you don't need a key with a transponder to start them,” said Det. Michelle Ritter with the SJPD. “Basically, you can tear apart the steering column and the ignition tumbler, then start the vehicle without a key or key fob and people are using all kinds of tools to do this—like needle-nose pliers or even a USB cable.”
According to SJPD, YouTube videos detailing how to steal Kia vehicles began circulating in mid-2022, but it took some time before the trend reached St. Joseph.
While the department wasn't able to release exact figures for vehicle thefts by year, they did share insights on a noticeable trend observed by officers: a correlation between the overall number of stolen vehicles and specific models, such as Kia's and Hyundai's.
Between 2021 and 2023, the department reported a consistent number of stolen vehicles each year, with Kia and Hyundai thefts remaining relatively low.
In 2023, thefts of Kia and Hyundai vehicles approximately doubled compared to 2021. This troubling trend continued into 2024, where, despite an overall reduction of about 20% in vehicle thefts in St. Joseph, Kia and Hyundai thefts saw a staggering increase.
These thefts rose by about 500% compared to 2021, and by roughly 300% compared to the previous year.
“When we started to see that people were catching on here around was around 2023-2024 where our numbers kind of doubled but they were still rather low,” said Ritter. “By 2024, there were about five times the amount of thefts of those two vehicles.”
Despite this, SJPD reports recovering many stolen vehicles quickly, as most kids aren’t stealing cars to sell or break them down for parts.
Instead, they’re taking them for joyrides or to commit other crimes. But usually, they don’t get far, as cars are often dumped or wrecked soon after.
However, vehicle thefts, including those of Kia and Hyundai models, are finally trending downward in St. Joseph, with department data showing half as many vehicles reported stolen this time, compared to last year.
Kia thefts have significantly decreased, while Hyundai thefts have remained steady.
“The amount of Kia's is about a fourth of what they were last year and that’s a trend we’re going to keep working towards,” Ritter said.
Law enforcement shared tips for residents on ways to prevent vehicle thefts, including those of Kia and Hyundai models, as well as other vehicles.
“As far as Kia and Hyundai vehicles go, I think some kids still believe they can steal those cars the way they used to,” Ritter said. “So, if they're parked on a city street there’s still a chance some people might try. However, if you’ve taken anti-theft measures, you shouldn’t have any issues keeping your car.”
“When it comes to stolen vehicles, it often boils down to crimes of opportunity, where individuals leave their cars running or their keys in the car. It's important to avoid doing this even if you’re running a quick errand,” Ritter added.
The St. Joseph Police Department reminds the public that stolen vehicle reports cannot be filed online. To report a stolen vehicle, please call the non-emergency line at 816-271-4777 for assistance.
