Matt Trapani

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Oct 2, 2023, 5:59 PM

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Updated

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The Newark Police Department is warning residents about a nationwide social media trend impacting New Jersey.

Police say that the so-called “Kia Challenge” involves thieves targeting Kia and Hyundai vehicles. Police say these vehicles lack push-button ignitions and immobilizing anti-theft devices.

RELATED: Hyundai and Kia recall nearly 3.4 million vehicles due to fire risk and urge owners to park outdoors

RELATED: AG Platkin: Hyundai, Kia vehicles targeted for theft, owners should take precautions

“Thieves can simply break into the vehicle without setting off the alarm by breaking a rear window. Then, the steering column is peeled back and either a screwdriver or USB charging cable can be used to start the vehicle,” police wrote in a statement.

Kia and Hyundai have issued anti-theft software upgrades to address the issue. Owners are advised to visit the Kia and Hyundai websites to obtain free anti-theft software upgrades and steering wheel locks offered by the vehicle manufacturers.

The impacted vehicles include:

• 2011-2022 Accent

• 2011-2022 Elantra

• 2013-2017 Elantra GT

• 2013-2014 Elantra Coupe

• 2011-2012 Elantra Touring

• 2011-2014 Genesis Coupe

• 2018-2022 Kona

• 2020-2021 Palisade

• 2011-2012, 2019-2022 Santa Fe

• 2013-2018, 2019 Santa Fe; Santa Fe XL

• 2013-2018 Santa Fe Sport

• 2011-2019 Sonata

• 2011-2022 Tucson

• 2012-2017, 2019-2021 Veloster

• 2011-2022 Sportage

• 2011-2020 Optima

• 2011-2022 Sorento

• 2011-2021 Forte

• 2020-2022 Soul

• 2012-2021 Sedona

• 2021-2022 Seltos

• 2021-2022 K5