Police issue warning about stolen cars

Montoursville, Pa. — Two cars have been reported stolen in Montoursville this week and police say it's part of a larger issue with certain car manufacturers.

Both stolen cars were Hyundais and police believe they've been targeted because of a known security flaw that makes the vehicles easy to steal. The thefts have become so rampant, Pennsylvania State Police held steering wheel club giveaways to Kia owners last year to prevent thefts.

According to CNN , both Hyundai and Kia models don't have electronic immobilizers, "which rely on a computer chip in the car and another in the key that communicate to confirm that the key belongs with that vehicle. Without the right key, an immobilizer should do just that — stop the car from moving."

Kia models produced between 2010 and 2021 without a push-button start can be hot-wired with just a USB cable and a screwdriver, making them easier to steal, as well.

One of the vehicles was stolen the night of April 23 from the 300 block of Mulberry Street and the second was taken on April 27 from the 10 block of North Montour Street, police said.

Montoursville police are reminding residents not to keep keys, key fobs, or valuables in the vehicle, and to keep the doors locked.

"If you own a Hyundai or a Kia, we are advising you to check with a trusted Hyundai or Kia dealership to ensure this flaw has been corrected in your vehicle," a police department Facebook post read.

Police are also asking residents to share any video of suspicious activity to help aid in the investigation.