DENVER (KDVR) — The Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority warned owners of Kia and Hyundai to take extra precautions when leaving their vehicles unattended, after the two brands were found to be among the most stolen vehicles in Colorado in 2024.

CATPA said the stolen vehicles are often used to commit crimes across the Front Range, which can include dangerous driving and business burglaries, among other things. CATPA also said that preventing auto thefts saves more than just a car; it makes the entire state safer.

The top 10 most stolen vehicles in Colorado in 2024 included:

The CATPA - Metropolitan Auto Theft Taskforce was created using a grant and investigates patterns of crime related to auto theft, with an emphasis on crimes that involve the deliberate criminal enterprise of stolen motor vehicles.

The Auto Theft Taskforce said all vehicle owners can benefit from these prevention steps, but they are a must for owners of Hyundai and Kia vehicles:

1. Lock your car
2. Take keys out of the car, never leave it running
3. Park smart in areas like a parking garage, secure lot or under a street light, although the most important thing is to make sure the car can be seen
4. Keep your car clean, and having nothing in your car gives thieves less of an incentive to steal
5. If you own a Hyundai, Kia or any of the other most stolen vehicles, check with local manufacturing service centers to determine if your vehicle qualifies for a security software upgrade
6. Use a steering wheel lock, which is often available from local police departments
7. Use a GPS tag and enroll in programs like Denver Track or Metro Track
8. Use tools like parking boots, gear shift/pedal locks or others
9. Install aftermarket alarms and immobilizing devices from a trusted installer

For more tips on how to safeguard your car, visit the Lockdownyourcar website, which includes victim assistance for those whose cars are stolen.

The Auto Theft Taskforce said that one in every five cars stolen in Colorado is either a Kia or a Hyundai, and if your vehicle appears on the top 10 list, you are at a greater risk of becoming a victim of auto theft.