SETTLEMENT: Hyundai and Kia Owners Have One Year to Get Free Repairs
Automakers Hyundai and Kia have agreed to a nationwide settlement that should be welcome news to California owners of these vehicles that lack anti-theft protections.
Under the agreement, announced by Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison and joined by 35 states, including California, Hyundai and Kia must provide free anti-theft repairs to millions of affected vehicles sold between approximately 2011 and 2022. The fix, which includes installing a zinc sleeve to prevent ignition tampering, addresses a widely publicized vulnerability that allowed vehicles to be stolen using basic tools. The total cost of the repair program could exceed $500 million.
The settlement also requires both manufacturers to install engine immobilizers in all future vehicles sold in the United States and to pay up to $4.5 million in restitution to owners whose vehicles were damaged by theft.
Social Media Posts Showed How to Easily Steal Kia and Hyundai Vehicles
Hyundai and Kia thefts surged nationwide after social media videos demonstrated how easily certain models could be stolen. In Minneapolis alone, reported thefts of these vehicles increased more than 800% from 2021 to 2022. Investigators alleged that while the automakers included immobilizers in vehicles sold in Canada and Mexico, the technology was not widely installed in U.S. models, exposing consumers to increased risk of theft, property damage, and personal injury.
Hyundai, Kia Settlement
Meanwhile, eligible owners will have one year from the date they receive notice to obtain the free repair at an authorized dealership. Repairs are expected to roll out between early 2026 and early 2027.
Finally, for California drivers, this settlement raises important Lemon Law questions. Repeated thefts, delayed repairs, diminished vehicle value, or extended time out of service may give rise to additional legal remedies beyond this settlement. If your Hyundai or Kia has been affected, consulting with a California Lemon Law attorney can help you understand whether you may be entitled to compensation, a vehicle buyback, or replacement.
We Can Help With Your Lemon Law Claim | Call 1-800-558-1087
If your vehicle has been in the shop repeatedly or you’re worried the recall repair won’t resolve the issues, our firm can review your situation at no cost. Lemon law claims are often fully paid by the manufacturer, not the consumer.
You don’t have to keep driving a dangerous or unreliable vehicle.
Contact Attorney James Johnson at Johnson Attorneys Group today at 1-800-558-1087 for a free case evaluation and learn whether you qualify for compensation or a buyback.
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