A proposed settlement has been reached in the case known as “In re: Hyundai and Kia Engine Litigation II,” No. 8:18-cv-02223-JLS-JDE (CD Cal.), and thousands will be able to claim a cash payment.
This class action lawsuit alleges that certain Kia vehicle models have an engine defect that could cause jams, malfunctions, and even fires. In addition, some owners and tenants would have been unfairly deprived of repairs under warranty. Although Kia has not admitted any liability, a settlement has been agreed to avoid a protracted litigation and offer compensation to those affected.
Details of the Agreement: Benefits and Cash for Those Affected
Owners or lessees of certain Kia vehicles may be eligible for various financial and other benefits. To do this, it is necessary to have purchased or leased a vehicle with the engine corresponding to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Benefits include cash reimbursements for the costs of previous repairs related to engine failures. In addition, transportation, towing, and even meals and lodging expenses will be reimbursed if an engine failure or fire was experienced, regardless of whether a subsequent repair was obtained.
Furthermore, cash compensation will be offered for exchanges and sales of non-repaired vehicles that suffered engine failures or fires. There will also be cash compensation for vehicles lost due to engine fires, plus an additional goodwill payment of $150.
The powertrain warranty will be extended to 15 years or 150,000 miles for original and subsequent owners, covering specific engine damage. In addition, cash refunds will be offered to those who have lost confidence in their vehicle due to engine problems and have purchased another Kia vehicle.
How to Participate in the Class Action Agreement
To obtain refunds or compensation from this class action settlement, those affected must submit a claim form. However, it is not necessary to submit this form to benefit from the extended warranty, as long as the Detonation Sensor Detection System (KSDS) upgrade has been completed before November 4, 2023.
Those who wish not to receive compensation, in order to maintain their right to sue Kia separately, had to apply for their exclusion by August 7, 2023. To object to the settlement, the members had to remain part of the lawsuit and express their objections in writing to the group’s lawyers by August 7, 2023. Those affected could request to speak to the court about the impartiality of the agreement before August 7, 2023.
Doing Nothing Is Also Your Right
Those who do not take any action will automatically receive the 15-year or 150,000-mile extended warranty as long as they have completed the KSDS upgrade, if applicable.
For more information about the settlement and next steps, those affected can check if their vehicle is eligible by clicking here, where you can check your car’s VIN number, or by contacting the Settlement Administrator at 1-800-944-1025. The deadline to submit claims for most benefits is July 8, 2024.
