Free VIN etching and steering-wheel locks coming to Bullhead City

Bullhead City drivers can get a free vehicle-theft deterrent this month, while owners of certain Kia and Hyundai models have an additional reason to attend.

The Bullhead City Police Department will hold a vehicle-theft prevention event from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 21, at police headquarters, 1255 Marina Blvd. Officers will provide free vehicle identification number etching, prevention advice and resources.

The department also plans to distribute free steering-wheel locks to owners of 2011–2021 Kia or Hyundai vehicles with steel-key ignitions. Locks will be distributed first come, first served while supplies last.

What VIN etching actually does

VIN etching permanently marks a vehicle’s identification number on its glass. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, which has offered the service with state police, describes the process as engraving the number onto windows and windshields.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration lists window etching and steering-wheel locks among visible theft deterrents. They serve a different purpose from an electronic immobilizer, which is designed to stop someone from bypassing the ignition system.

The practical value of the event is a chance to add a visible layer of protection and ask officers about a particular vehicle. A lock or etched window should still be paired with everyday habits: take the keys, close the windows, lock the doors and keep valuables out of sight, NHTSA advises.

Kia and Hyundai owners have another check to make

The local lock giveaway has specific eligibility rules. Owners should also check their vehicle’s VIN with the manufacturer to learn what other theft-prevention measures are available.

Kia’s anti-theft support page provides a VIN eligibility check for its software upgrade or ignition-cylinder protector. Hyundai’s anti-theft site explains its free software program and assistance for certain vehicles that cannot receive the upgrade. Eligibility for those programs should be checked separately from the Bullhead event’s lock criteria.

For event questions, contact Community Services Officer Lorrie Duggins at 928-763-9200, ext. 8204, or lduggins@bullheadcityaz.gov.