For Hyundai owners in Renton, help is on the way.

The Renton Police Department has received “a generous number” of anti-theft steering wheel locks from Hyundai Motor America, which will be distributed to Hyundai drivers in Renton.

Only 2021 and older Hyundai vehicles with a key ignition start qualify for a free lock.

In order to procure the free steering wheel lock, Hyundai owners must make an appointment by email. Once an appointment has been confirmed, the qualifying Hyundai vehicle must be taken with the owner to Renton City Hall to acquire the free lock. Only one lock will be distributed per registration, per person.

Appointments can only be made through Cyndie Morris at cmorris@rentonwa.gov.

On Jan. 25, the city of Seattle filed a lawsuit against Hyundai (and Kia) for failing to “install anti-theft technology in some vehicles which has contributed to an exponential increase of Kia and Hyundai car theft in Seattle and other regions.”

According to City Attorney Ann Davison, theft of Hyundai vehicles increased by 503% from 2021 to 2022.

For the first month of 2023, there was a total of 167 vehicle thefts in Renton, 97 of which were either a Hyundai or a Kia.

Vehicle theft is not exclusive to Hyundai vehicles, and for car owners who hope to deter potential thieves, Renton police suggest the following:

1. Purchase a steering wheel lock.

2. Install a security system for vehicle windows that will trigger an alarm before a potential thief can get away.

3. Consider installing a kill switch, which can be found in many vehicle parts and accessory stores.

For more information, visit rentonwa.gov/locks.