The Yelm Police Department will issue free steering wheel locks for Hyundai vehicles due to the rise in thefts across the Pacific Northwest.
The devices have been given to the police department courtesy of Hyundai USA, stated a news release from the City of Yelm.
Anyone who believes they qualify for one or want more information can stop by the police station at 206 McKenzie Ave. from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
The steering wheel locks will be provided to residents who own a Hyundai vehicle that uses a physical key to start the ignition or motor from 2009 to 2021, stated the release. Models with a key FOB are not eligible.
The following is a media statement from Hyundai:
“In response to increasing thefts targeting our vehicles without push-button ignitions and immobilizing anti-theft devices in the United States, Hyundai Motor America has made engine immobilizers standard on all vehicles produced as of November 2021. Additionally, Hyundai has taken a series of actions to deter thefts of affected vehicles, including an upcoming software update scheduled to be available beginning in March and provided at no cost to customers.
“In the interim, Hyundai is also providing free steering wheel locks, as available, to select law enforcement agencies across the country for distribution to local residents who own or lease affected models. We apologize for the inconvenience to affected customers. Owners may also bring their vehicles to a local Hyundai dealer for the purchase and installation of a customized security kit.
“Hyundai is committed to ensuring the quality and integrity of all our products through continuous improvement. Hyundai quality is among the best in the industry, ranking third among all brands in the 2022 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and historically above the industry average in J.D. Power’s U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS).”
