Some KIA and Hyundai models were made without an engine immobiliser from 2011 to 2022. This is a key security device that keeps the car from starting without the right key. This oversight created a major weakness: the number of thefts of these cars increased dramatically, thanks in large part to how-to videos on sites like TikTok that showed simple ways to avoid the ignition system.
A class action lawsuit was made against Hyundai and KIA because of how bad the problem was. The claim said that the companies didn’t put engine immobilisers in their cars, which made them more likely to be stolen.
The KIA-Hyundai Vehicle Theft Settlement gives owners who were harmed a fund of between $80 million and $145 million to help them get their money back. Vehicle owners who qualify can get money back for losses and costs caused by theft, as well as a program update to make their cars safer.
Also See:$600 COLA Increase for Social Security Payment, SSA received 463K calls in a day
KIA, Hyundai Vehicle Theft Settlement Eligibility and Claim Process
Eligibility Criteria
You must have bought or leased one of the models listed in the United States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, or Guam in order to be qualified for the KIA Hyundai Vehicle Theft Settlement. The types that are affected 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)
Hyundai and KIA Cards Claim Submission Process
- Check to See If Your Car Is Eligible: Go to the Official Settlement Website and enter your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to see if it is a class vehicle.
- Get together What paperwork is needed:Proof that you own or rent the thing.
- Keep records of any thefts or attempts at thefts, if necessary.
- Proof of any out-of-pocket costs connected to theft attempts, such as insurance deductibles and the cost of replacing stolen things.
- Fill out the form to make a claim – You can fill out the claim form on the settlement website or ask the claims administrator for a written copy. Correctly complete the form by giving all the needed details and proof.
Send the Claim Form—You can send your fully filled-out claim form to the payment website or to the address given in the form
KIA Hyundai Vehicle Theft Settlement Timeline
| Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Lawsuit Filed | 2022 | Filing of the class action lawsuit over missing engine immobilizers and increased theft risk. |
| Preliminary Settlement Agreement | Mid-2023 | Parties reach an initial agreement on the terms of the settlement. |
| Preliminary Approval by Court | Late 2023 | The court grants preliminary approval, enabling notification to class members to begin. |
| Exclusion/Opt-Out and Objection Deadline | May 3, 2024 | Deadline for class members to exclude themselves or object to the settlement terms. |
| Final Approval Hearing | July 15, 2024 | Court hearing to consider and potentially grant final approval of the settlement. |
| Claim Submission Deadline | January 11, 2025 | The final date for eligible class members to submit compensation claims. |
| Claims Processing and Distribution | Post-January 2025 | Start of the processing of claims and subsequent distribution of settlement benefits. |
Compensation Details
The compensation offered through the KIA Hyundai Vehicle Theft Settlement is designed to address various forms of financial impact experienced by the owners or lessees of affected vehicles due to the lack of an engine immobilizer, which made the vehicles easier to steal. Here’s a breakdown of the specific compensation types available under this settlement:
Compensation for Theft or Attempted Theft
- If the vehicle is completely lost due to theft, up to 60% of its Black Book value will be reimbursed.
- Up to the greater of $3,375 or 33% of the damage costs incurred from each incident of theft or attempted theft. This also covers the value of personal property stolen or damaged during such incidents.
- Reimbursements for Additional Expenses
Reimbursements for Additional Expenses
- Up to $375 for insurance deductibles paid due to theft or attempted theft.
- Coverage for increased premiums that result from filing a claim for theft.
- Up to $250 for expenses such as transportation, towing, and penalties incurred from the theft or attempted theft.
- Up to $250 total for lost income and childcare expenses combined, incurred due to the time spent managing the aftermath of the theft or obtaining the software upgrade.
Software Upgrades and Key Fobs
- As much as $375 in insurance deductibles paid because of theft or an attempt to steal.
Protection against higher rates that happen after a theft claim. - Up to $250 for costs like towing, transfer, and fines caused by the theft or attempted theft.
- As much as $250 in lost wages and child care costs because of the time spent dealing with the theft’s fallout or getting the software upgrade.
- Updates to software and key fobs
Anti-Theft Device Installation
Payment for buying and setting up steering wheel locks, glass break alarms, or other similar security systems that keep your car from being stolen. For people who bought these things before the software update came out, they can get up to $300 back per class car. If KIA gave a steering wheel lock, you can only get $250 back for any other devices.