Between 2011 and 2022, certain KIA and Hyundai models were manufactured without an engine immobilizer, a key safety feature that prevents the car from starting without the correct key, the fact of having omitted this detail gave rise to a very important vulnerability, Theft rates of these cars increased, fueled by instructional videos on platforms like TikTok that taught easy methods to bypass the ignition system.
Recognizing the seriousness of the problem, a class action lawsuit was filed against Hyundai and KIA, arguing that the companies were not including engine immobilizers in their vehicles, which increased the risk of theft.
The vehicle theft settlement between KIA and Hyundai provides a fund of between 80 and 145 million dollars to compensate affected vehicle owners, eligible vehicle owners can receive reimbursements for losses and related expenses with theft and a software update to increase vehicle security
Eligibility and Claim Process for Theft of Kia and Hyundai Vehicles
To be eligible for the KIA Hyundai vehicle theft settlement, you must have purchased or leased one of the specified models within the United States, including but not limited to Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands, and Guam models with damages are:
- Kia Forte (2011-2021)
- Kia K5 (2021-2022)
- Kia Optima (2011-2020)
- KIA Rio (2012-2021)
- Kia Sedona (2011-2021)
- Kia Seltos (2021-2022)
- Kia Sorento (2011-2022)
- Kia Soul (2020-2022)
- Kia Sportage (2011-2022)
- Verify vehicle eligibility by entering the official website of the agreement and there enter the vehicle identification number (VIN) to confirm if your vehicle is such a vehicle.
- Gather the required documentation:
- Proof of ownership or lease.
- Documentation of any incident of theft or attempted theft, if applicable.
- Receipts or invoices for any out-of-pocket expenses related to attempted theft, including insurance deductibles and replacement costs for stolen items.
- Complete the claim form: Access the claim form on the settlement website or request a paper form from the claims administrator. Please complete the form accurately and provide all required information and documentation.
- Submit Claim Form: You can submit your completed claim form online through the settlement website or by mail to the designated address.
Kia, Hyundai Vehicle Theft Resolution Schedule
| Lawsuit filed | 2022 | Filing a class action lawsuit for missing engine immobilizers and increased risk of theft. |
| Preliminary settlement agreement | Mid 2023 | The parties reach an initial agreement on the terms of the agreement. |
| Preliminary approval by the Court | End of 2023 | The court grants preliminary approval, allowing notification to class members to begin. |
| Opt-Out/Opt-Out Deadline and Objection | May 3, 2024 | Deadline for class members to opt out or object to the terms of the settlement. |
| Final approval hearing | July 15, 2024 | Court hearing to consider and potentially grant final approval of the agreement. |
| Deadline to file claims | January 11, 2025 | The final date for eligible class members to file compensation claims. |
| Claims processing and distribution | After January 2025 | Beginning of claims processing and subsequent distribution of settlement benefits. |
The compensation offered through the KIA-Hyundai Vehicle Theft Settlement was designed to encompass various forms of financial impact experienced by owners or lessees of affected vehicles due to the absence of an engine immobilizer, which caused vehicles became easier to be stolen.
Compensation for Theft or Attempted Theft
- If the vehicle is completely lost due to theft, up to 60% of its value will be reimbursed, according to the Black Book.
- Up to the higher amount of $3,375 or 33% of the costs of damages caused by each incident of theft or attempted theft, this also covers the value of personal property stolen or damaged during the incidents.