Auto thefts leave police, local drivers scrambling for answers
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First, remove the plastic cover behind the steering wheel. Then access the ignition cylinder, pushing in a pin to separate it. Remove the part where you’d insert a key, leaving a metal piece exposed. Jam the end of a USB cable onto the metal piece and turn the cable like a key to start the car. This hack has been used and popularized by so-called Kia boys on Youtube and Tik Tok to hotwire Kias and Hyundais, resulting in a larger trend across the country as well as the Fox Valley of an increase in grand theft auto.
According to Officer Kate Mann of the Oshkosh Police Department, this initially became a prevalent problem during January of this year.
“From January 1 through January 23, 2024, the statistics for vehicles being stolen or attempted to be stolen in the city of Oshkosh that were either a Hyundai or Kia was four stolen, with three recovered, and thirteen attempts,” Mann reported.
Heather Schilling, a West science teacher, is one of many who has heard of this issue and seen its effects.
“My friend used to live in Milwaukee and got her car stolen right in front of her house. And I’ve heard similar stories up here,” she said.
Hyundai and Kia are the brands that have been impacted by the leaking of hotwiring information on social media. Exposure of this flaw in the software of numerous Kia and Hyundai vehicles made between the years 2011 and 2021 proves that it is simple to hotwire such automobiles. In response, a recall was put out by both companies with software flaws that addressed the problems. Car owners with affected vehicle models can now take their car in and have the software fixed so hotwiring and stealing isn’t as effortless.
Mann had more information regarding accessing the software fix.
“Owners of Hyundai and Kia vehicles can contact Hyundai at 800-633-5151 or Kia at 800-333-4542 to see if their vehicle qualifies for theft deterrent software or the steering wheel lock,” she said.
Besides this, authorities in Oshkosh are equipping the public with the information they need to help ensure fewer car owners in the community are victims of theft. Mann gives a few examples of products available that can be purchased to lower the chances of one’s vehicle being stolen.
“There are also several products on the market that help add an extra layer of security, like a steering wheel lock with a brake lock, a club steering wheel lock, a tire lock, a GPS tracker for vehicles and a key fob case for anti-hacking”.
With this uptick in thefts, Schillings is weary and is trying her best to take preventative precautions.
“When I’m parking somewhere, I try to park in an area where it’s generally safe, and there are a lot of other cars and buildings around,” Schilling said. “At home, I park it in my garage instead of in the driveway, and always lock my doors.”
As the police work to track down car thieves and stop a further spike in thefts, the Oshkosh Police Department wants to bring to light simple efforts such as these to verify the safety of at-risk cars as well.
“We want to encourage owners to park vehicles in well-lit areas, in areas under video surveillance or in locked garages when possible,” Officer Mann said. “Please remember to lock car doors and keep your vehicle keys with you at all times.”
by Pheobe Fletcher
Published February 26 2024
Oshkosh West Index Volume 120 Issue V