$3375 Kia-Hyundai Class Action 2024 Lawsuit Settlement, Confirmed Payment Dates

The Kia-Hyundai Class Action Lawsuit of 2024 has garnered significant attention due to the widespread theft of certain models from these automakers. This wave of theft, driven by social media trends, highlighted a critical flaw in some Kia and Hyundai vehicles: the absence of engine immobilizers, a standard feature in most cars since the 1990s. This omission left many vehicles vulnerable, leading to a surge in car thefts and ultimately, a large-scale legal battle.

The Origins of the Lawsuit

Kia and Hyundai, both part of the Hyundai Motor Group, found themselves at the center of a legal storm as cities across the United States, including New York City, filed lawsuits against them. The legal actions were prompted by viral videos on platforms like TikTok, where users demonstrated how to start certain Kia and Hyundai models using simple tools like screwdrivers and USB cables. The ease with which these cars could be stolen alarmed both consumers and city officials, leading to a sharp increase in thefts and subsequent lawsuits.

The root of the issue was that many Kia and Hyundai models sold in the U.S. between 2011 and 2022 were manufactured without engine immobilizers. These devices are designed to prevent the engine from starting without the correct key, making them a critical deterrent against theft. The absence of this feature in these vehicles made them easy targets, and as a result, car theft rates for these brands skyrocketed.

The Settlement Details

In response to the lawsuit, Kia and Hyundai have agreed to a settlement totaling $200 million. This settlement aims to compensate the nearly 9 million customers affected by the thefts. Eligible customers could receive up to $3,375 or 33% of the vehicle’s value, whichever is greater, to cover damages or loss of personal property resulting from these thefts.

While the exact payment dates have not yet been finalized, Kia and Hyundai have committed to implementing a software upgrade to approximately 8.3 million affected vehicles. This upgrade aims to enhance theft protection and reduce the vulnerability that led to the initial wave of thefts. The company has assured that the rollout of these upgrades is imminent, and customers should expect further updates soon.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for compensation under the Kia-Hyundai Class Action Lawsuit settlement, you must have purchased one of the affected models while residing in the United States. The list of eligible models spans from 2011 to 2022 and includes popular vehicles such as the Kia Forte, Kia Optima, and Hyundai Tucson, among others.

Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the eligible Kia models:

Year	Car Model
2011-2021	Kia Forte
2021-2022	Kia K5
2011-2020	Kia Optima
2012-2021	Kia Rio
2011-2021	Kia Sedona
2021-2022	Kia Seltos
2011-2022	Kia Sorrento
2020-2022	Kia Soul
2011-2022	Kia Sportage

It is essential to note that this settlement does not cover any past or future thefts beyond those already reported. However, if you have already received a steering wheel lock from Kia or Hyundai through a dealer or law enforcement, you are entitled to an additional $250 per vehicle. This reimbursement is intended to cover the cost of installing additional theft protection devices, such as glass-breaking alarms.

The Kia-Hyundai Class Action Lawsuit of 2024 serves as a cautionary tale for automakers and consumers alike. It underscores the importance of essential security features, like engine immobilizers, in modern vehicles.

For affected customers, the settlement offers a measure of compensation for the distress and financial loss caused by these vulnerabilities. As the final payment dates approach, it is advisable for eligible car owners to stay informed and take the necessary steps to secure their compensation.

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