Although car theft continues to decline in Denver and across Colorado, thousands of vehicles are still stolen annually, according to the Colorado State Patrol.
So far this year, nearly one in every five stolen cars has been a Hyundai or a Kia, according to a news release from the agency.
Cars from those two manufacturers made up five of Colorado’s 10 most stolen vehicles in 2024, state patrol officials said. That list included the Hyundai Elantra, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Kia Soul and Kia Sportage.
Hyundai and Kia-manufactured vehicles also accounted for 23% of all Colorado car thefts in 2023.
“If you own a key Hyundai, Kia or any vehicle in Colorado’s ‘Top Ten List,’ you must do more to prevent theft,” state patrol officials stated in the news release.
State officials said Hyundai and Kia owners should check with their local manufacturer service center to determine if their vehicle qualifies for a security software update.
Beyond locking the car and not keeping the keys inside it, the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority recommends:
- Parking in a garage, secure parking lot or an area with constant supervision
- Keeping a clean car with no visible items to steal
- Using a steering wheel lock
- Using a GPS tag and enrolling in Denver Track or Metro Track
- Installing gear shift or pedal locks
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