Between 2011 and 2022, certain models of KIA and Hyundai vehicles were manufactured without a critical security feature known as an engine immobilizer. This feature prevents a car from starting without the correct key. The absence of this feature made these vehicles susceptible to theft, a problem exacerbated by instructional videos on platforms like TikTok, which demonstrated how to bypass the ignition system.
In response to this vulnerability, a KIA Class Action Lawsuit was filed against Hyundai and KIA, alleging that the omission of engine immobilizers increased the risk of theft.
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Hyundai, KIA Vehicle Theft Settlement Fund
The KIA-Hyundai Vehicle Theft Settlement includes a fund ranging from $80 million to $145 million to compensate affected vehicle owners. Eligible claimants can receive reimbursements for theft-related losses and expenses, as well as a software upgrade to improve vehicle security.
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Overview of Hyundai-KIA Class Action Lawsuit 2024
| Topic | Hyundai-KIA Class Action Lawsuit 2024 |
|---|---|
| Governing Body | Federal Government |
| Category | Finance |
Settlement Cost: $3,375
Kia-Hyundai is the only major automobile manufacturer to have ceased using key ignition systems in its vehicles; starting in 2021, all of their models will be equipped with push-button starters. The surge in vehicle theft is partly due to many recent models lacking this mechanism.
Following significant theft issues, New York City took legal action against the car manufacturer. The court has provisionally agreed to the settlement terms, pending final approval. The cash will be distributed to eligible consumers once the court grants final approval.
Hyundai-KIA Class Action Lawsuit 2024 Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the KIA Hyundai Vehicle Theft Settlement, you must have purchased or leased one of the affected models in the United States, including Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam. The affected models are:
| Model | Years |
|---|---|
| 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-KIA Class Action Lawsuit 2024 Claims Submission Process
To file a claim under the settlement, follow these steps:
- Check Vehicle Eligibility: Visit the Official Settlement Website and enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to verify if your vehicle qualifies.
- Gather Required Documentation:
- Proof of ownership or lease.
- Documentation of any theft or attempted theft incidents.
- Receipts or invoices for any out-of-pocket expenses related to 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. Fill out the form completely and accurately.
- Submit the Claim Form: Submit your completed claim form online via the settlement website or by mail to the designated address.
Kia-Hyundai Vehicle Theft Settlement Timeline
| Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Lawsuit Filed | 2022 | Class action lawsuit filed over missing engine immobilizers. |
| Preliminary Settlement Agreement | Mid-2023 | Initial agreement on settlement terms reached. |
| Preliminary Approval by Court | Late 2023 | A court hearing to grant final approval of the settlement. |
| Exclusion/Opt-Out and Objection Deadline | May 3, 2024 | Deadline for class members to exclude themselves or object to settlement terms. |
| Final Approval Hearing | July 15, 2024 | Court hearing to grant final approval of the settlement. |
| Claim Submission Deadline | January 11, 2025 | The court grants preliminary approval for the settlement. |
| Claims Processing and Distribution | Post-January 2025 | Claims processing and distribution of settlement benefits. |
Hyundai-KIA Class Action Lawsuit 2024 Compensation Details
The compensation is available through the KIA Hyundai Vehicle Theft Settlement addresses various financial impacts experienced by owners or lessees of affected vehicles. Here’s a breakdown of the compensation types:
- Theft or Attempted Theft Compensation:
- Reimbursement of up to 60% of the Black Book value if the vehicle is stolen.
- Up to $3,375 or 33% of the damage costs from each theft or attempted theft, including personal property losses.
- Additional Expenses:
- Up to $375 for insurance deductibles.
- Coverage for increased insurance premiums due to theft claims.
- Up to $250 for expenses like transportation, towing, and penalties related to theft.
- Up to $250 combined for lost income and childcare costs due to managing theft aftermath or obtaining the software upgrade.
- Software Upgrades and Key Fobs:
- Free software upgrade to enhance anti-theft security for eligible models.
- Reimbursement for OEM key fobs necessary for the upgrade, up to $350 per fob, with a limit of two per vehicle.
- Anti-Theft Device Installation:
- Reimbursement for steering wheel locks, glass breakage alarms, or similar anti-theft devices, up to $300 per vehicle. If KIA provided a steering wheel lock, additional reimbursements are capped at $250.
FAQs
Can I join the Kia class action lawsuit?
To check if your vehicle is included in the settlement, contact the Settlement Administrator at 1-800-944-1025 (Toll-Free). You will generally need to complete the free Knock Sensor Detection System (“KSDS”) update at a Kia dealership to qualify for benefits.
How do I claim with Kia?
To file a new claim online, visit Kia’s website at Kia Customer Care.