SALT LAKE CITY — A wave of car thefts is once again sweeping through Salt Lake City, with Hyundai and Kia vehicles at the center of the crime spree. Police said the latest surge mirrors a troubling national trend fueled by social media, and they’re urging residents to take action.
Between April 26 and July 5, the Salt Lake City Police Department recorded at least 44 thefts or attempted thefts involving Hyundai and Kia vehicles. Most of the incidents occurred on the city’s west side, particularly west of Redwood Road between 1300 N. and North Temple.
Salt Lake City Police say thieves are mainly targeting the city’s west side.
“It’s been easy to steal Hyundai Elantras, and that’s why I think they targeted my car,” said Candy Soto, a Hyundai owner whose vehicle was broken into last year. “My neighbors have nicer cars than I do, and they weren’t touched.”
Candy Soto suspects thieves broke into her Hyundai Elantra, in March 2024, to steal it but were deterred by the car alarm. (Candy Soto)
Soto awoke in the middle of the night to find her car window shattered. Although her alarm scared off the suspects before they could steal the vehicle, she was left with hundreds of dollars in repair costs. “I don’t think it’s right,” she said. “We’re the ones who have to pay for the repairs if our insurance doesn’t cover it.”
The thefts are part of a broader trend linked to the so-called “Kia Challenge,” a viral social media phenomenon that exploits security flaws in certain Hyundai and Kia models.
Vehicles manufactured without engine immobilizers — a standard anti-theft feature — are especially vulnerable.
“People are stealing them and often joyriding,” said Sgt. Miles Southworth with SLCPD.
Earlier this year, police arrested two teenagers in connection with a similar string of thefts. While investigators haven’t confirmed a link between the two crime waves, they aren’t ruling it out.
“We’re exploring all possibilities,” Southworth added.
Hyundai, Kia offering free software upgrades
In response, both Hyundai and Kia are offering free software upgrades to address the security vulnerabilities. Police are urging all affected vehicle owners to take advantage of the updates and to remain vigilant.
SLCPD also recommends the following precautions:
- Never leave your car running and unattended.
- Do not leave keys or key fobs inside your vehicle.
- Be aware that some suspects may use tools to clone key fobs.
- Report any suspicious activity immediately by calling 9-1-1.
- Police are also asking residents to share any surveillance footage that may help identify suspects.
For more information on the security updates, visit the official Hyundai and Kia websites.
Some drivers may also benefit from a class action settlement related to the issue.
