Tinley PD Giving Out Steering Wheel Locks To Kia, Hyundai Owners

TINLEY PARK, IL — Tinley Park Police are hoping to do what they can to prevent the theft of Hyundai vehicles locally, as incidents continue as result of a social media trend.

The police department is partnering with Hyundai Motor America to offer free steering wheel locks to Tinley Park residents who own Kia and Hyundai vehicles.

The recent trend in car theft has suspects targeting specific makes of vehicle—specifically Kia or Hyundai. Thieves pick the vehicles due to a lack of a push-button start that makes it easier to hot wire the car, police have said. The trend has been exploding in recent months as social media information went viral outlining the methods to exploit an apparent security issue with select 2011-2021 Kia and 2015-2021 Hyundai vehicles.

In an effort to help car owners protect their vehicle, Tinley police will distribute steering wheel lock devices—widely known as The Club—that have been donated by Hyundai.

Locks are available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last at the Tinley Park Police Department, 7850 W. 7850 183rd St. To claim a lock, residents should bring proof of Tinley Park residency and proof of ownership of a Kia or Hyundai vehicle registered in Tinley Park.