Wichita police to hold security event for Kia thefts

KIA
The Kia logo is displayed on a new car on the sales lot at San Leandro Kia on May 30, 2023 in San Leandro, California. A surge in Kia and Hyundai thefts began last year after viral videos appeared on social media sites showing how to exploit the lack of antitheft computer chips in the cars. Kia and Hyundai cars continue to be stolen more than three months after the auto manufacturers deployed software fixes to help curb the thefts. Photo credit Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Wichita police will hold a security event in light of recent Kia thefts in the area. The WPD has seen a recent rise in thefts involving models from 2011-2021.

The event will happen on Nov. 11 at Midwest Kia at 8725 W. Kellogg. The hours for the event will be 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

The department will be there along with service technicians who will be installing Kia’s free anti-theft software upgrade.

The upgrade is designed to “restrict the operation of the vehicle’s ignition system” to deter theft attempts. The upgrade takes as little as 30 minutes.

If your vehicle is impacted, call Midwest Kia at 316-652-2120 to schedule an appointment for your free upgrade.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images