SEATTLE — New data from the Puget Sound Auto Theft Task Force shows an average of 71 cars a day were reported stolen in King and Pierce counties in September.
The task force said 705 vehicles were reported stolen in Pierce County and 1,431 were reported in King County. A total of 31,011 vehicles have been reported stolen so far this year across Washington state.
The spike in vehicle thefts prompted investigators to issue warnings and shared advise to car owners.
The task force said Kias and Hyundais are being targeted because of how quickly some models can be stolen. Owners of all models of those cars are encouraged to use a steering wheel lock as a “visual deterrent,” even if the vehicle’s software has been upgraded.
No matter what type of vehicle you have, detectives suggested leaving a GPS tracker – like an AirTag or Tile – in your vehicle so it can be tracked if it is stolen.
“While it’s important for all vehicle owners to consider using an anti-theft device, we strongly encourage residents of apartment complexes to make this a priority because these complexes are a top target for car thieves,” the task force said in a Facebook post.
If your vehicle is stolen, law enforcement officials said not to try and get your car back yourself, adding that it’s not worth the danger of confronting thieves.
As we approach the winter months, police also reminded residents not to leave cars running to warm up in the morning. Detectives said the exhaust makes these vehicles easy to spot, and can be an open invitation to some thieves to come and take your vehicle.
The Puget Sound Auto Theft Task Force also shared the following tips to help lessen your risk of having your car stolen:
- Remove or hide all valuables
- Lock your car
- Don’t leave keys or fobs inside
- Use anti-theft devices (alarm, kill switch, steering wheel lock)
- Park in well-lit areas
Tips and Tricks from by KOMO News Staff | Sun, September 24th 2023, 3:44 PM PDT
The TPD recommends the following tips if you own a Kia or Hyundai:
- Keep your door locked at all times while driving.
- Don’t leave your car unattended while it’s running.
- If you are involved in a collision and see the occupant exiting their vehicle and approaching yours, drive away and find somewhere safe to stop.
- Use a club anti-theft device even if you’ve had the software updates completed. Although it’s not foolproof, there are many Kias and Hyundais that they’ll move on to the next one nearby.
The Puget Sound Auto Theft Task Force also recommends that all drivers do the following:
- Remove or hide all valuables
- Lock your car
- Don’t leave keys or fobs inside
- Don’t leave your vehicle running unattended (exhaust in cold months makes these vehicles easy to spot)
- Use anti-theft devices (alarm, kill switch, steering wheel lock)
- Park in well-lit areas
- Leaving a GPS tracker (air tag)
