Fort Washington Division VII Citizens Advisory Council

From Cpl. Rannacher, Sdrannacher@co.pg.md.us, (O)301-292-5339, (C)240-507-8110

Note the continuing thefts from and thefts of Kia/Hundai cars. It is estimated that about 80% of the thefts involve cars that have not had a free software update. Also, the door handles of these cars seem to be easy to defeat so criminals do not need to break glass to enter the car.

These stolen cars are often used to commit other crimes including homicide.

As you can see our stolen auto’s are still on the rise. Please be vigilant and call police when you see something suspicious.

Non-emergency (301) 352-1200 #5

You Can Stop Vehicle-Related Crime: Take your stuff out, or hide your stuff, and lock your car!
Don't make it easy for a criminal to steal your property.

Click here for Cpl. Rannacher's January 23, 2024 crime report to the Tantallon North Area Civic Association (TNACA).

This from Cpl. Rannacher regarding Kia/Hyundai software updates, steering wheel locks, reimbursements, and class action cases:

ANTI-THEFT SUPPORT ACTIONS

https://ksupport.kiausa.com/ConsumerAffairs/SWLD

At Kia, the security of our vehicles is a top priority.

We are providing assistance to Kia owners and lessees whose vehicles may be targeted by social media “challenges.” We continue to roll out nationally a free, enhanced security software upgrade to restrict the unauthorized operation of vehicle ignition systems on locked vehicles. We are also providing free steering wheel locks for impacted owners and lessees, both directly to consumers and through local law enforcement agencies. To help prevent vehicle theft, remember to park in well-lit areas or near security cameras, close all windows, and always lock your vehicle every time you walk away from it. Do not leave your keys/fob or valuables in your vehicle, and do not leave the immediate area while your vehicle is running.

For more information on your vehicle’s eligibility for the software upgrade or to learn more about obtaining a steering wheel lock directly from Kia, please input your 17-digit VIN below.

Additionally, on May 18, 2023, Kia announced that a settlement had been reached in consumer class action litigation related to vehicle thefts. This will allow affected consumers (certain Class Members) to receive payments & other benefits once the settlement has been approved by the Court. The settlement provides various benefits including cash compensation for customers who have incurred theft-related losses, reimbursement for insurance deductibles, increased insurance premiums & other theft-related losses. It also provides for the free software upgrades that Kia has been rolling out as mentioned above, as well as reimbursement for steering wheel locks & other theft prevention devices, including aftermarket alarm kits, purchased by Class Members.

The settlement must be presented to the court with a request for preliminary approval (timing for review and approval is unknown but the estimated timeline is September or October). If approval is granted, notices to Class Members explaining the claims process and any related deadlines will be sent within approximately 60 days. A separate website will also be launched at that time. Any filed claims will be processed to determine the precise award and will be paid out after the Court gives its final approval at some time in the future (exact date currently unknown). There is no action to be taken at this time related to this voluntary settlement.

Hyundai:

https://autoservice.hyundaiusa.com/Campaign993/MicroSiteTemplate/MicroSiteTemplateFAQ/4572

Some 2011-2022 model year vehicles without engine immobilizers cannot accommodate the software upgrade. For these customers, 1.) Hyundai is working with local law enforcement offices to provide free steering wheel locks to customers. Owners are advised to reach out to their local law enforcement for more information. 2.) Hyundai will reimburse all customers who own or lease 2011-2022 model year vehicles without immobilizers that cannot accommodate the software upgrade for their purchase of a steering wheel lock. For steering wheel lock reimbursement, please contact Hyundai at 888-498-0390. 3.) Hyundai is preparing to provide this subset of customers with the option of obtaining reimbursement to offset their purchase of a different anti-theft device, such as an alarm kit. For more information, please contact Hyundai at 888-498-0390.