Kia is a popular option for car owners who are looking for vehicles that offer top-notch specifications and designs at affordable prices. A recent class-action lawsuit raised questions about the safety and security features of some Kia models.
This article covers how to claim compensation and who is eligible.
Table of Contents
Kia Class Action Lawsuit 2024
New York City (NYC), a part of the Hyundai Motor Group, filed a suit against Hyundai-Kia. This is a South Korean auto company. The lawsuit was brought by a number of cities. The lawsuit was filed in light of the theft wave that has been fueled by social media platforms about the fault which made some cars vulnerable to theft. Social media videos showing how to ignite cars using USB cables and screwdrivers went viral.
Certain Hyundia-Kia models in the USA were sold without an engine immobilizer. The car engine couldn’t be started without the key. Videos of people demonstrating how to ignite their cars went viral, making car thefts more vulnerable. NYC took legal action against the manufacturer because of its concern over the seriousness of the situation. The court has approved a settlement agreement with the automobile company. If the court approves the final approval then the settlement payment will go to customers.
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Settlement Details
Kia, the world’s largest automaker, sold over 700,000 cars in the US during 2021. A class action lawsuit accuses Kia America, despite this success, of selling cars that have significant security flaws and making them easy targets for thieves.
The issue has gained wide attention because of national media coverage, and social media challenges. TikTok is a good example. It highlights the ease with which these cars can be stolen.
The lawsuit centers on the absence of an engine immobilizer, which is a device to prevents the vehicle from being started without the correct key. This essential security feature is missing in many Kia models, which has resulted in an increase of thefts.
Claim the Settlement
Eligibility Criteria
You may be entitled to compensation if you purchased or leased an 2021/22 Kia, or a 15/22 Hyundai. The lawsuit targets Kia models between 2011 and 2021 without an engine immobilizer. Kia Souls and Sorentos are notable models, and in particular the 2017 Kia Soul as well as the 2015 Kia Sorento fail to meet federal safety regulations.
You can receive a free evaluation of your case to determine if you are eligible for compensation. This will allow you to determine if your vehicle is eligible for settlement.
Claim your Benefits
Individuals who are eligible can submit a claim for their share of the settlement. It is necessary to provide proof of ownership of the vehicle and any documentation that shows the absence of an engine immobilizer. Legal assistance can be obtained to guide you through the claim process and make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
Settlement Recipients
Who gets paid?
Settlement payments are available for those who bought a Kia between 2021/22 and other models during the timeframe of the lawsuit.
Kia is not responsible for any thefts outside of the specified period. Although the exact dates of payment have not yet been announced, we will provide updates as soon as they are released.
Settlement Amount
Payment Details
Kia has agreed to pay between $80 and $145 million in compensation for affected customers. The lawsuit, originally filed in Iowa has now been expanded to other states. Lawyers are advocating a nationwide collective action.
The following are important dates and updates regarding the lawsuit:
- 1st July 2024: Lincoln police investigate theft attempts of Kia and Hyundai.
- 1st June 2024: California, along with other states, seeks to recall Hyundai and Kia cars due to theft concerns.
- 1 April 2024: Experts in automotive safety call for stricter federal regulations to combat theft of Kia cars.
- Newark, 1 March 2024, joins the suit against Hyundai and Kia regarding vehicle anti-theft technologies.
- 1st February 2024 LAPD reports an increase in thefts of Kia cars linked to the TikTok Challenge.
- January 1, 2024, Seattle City Council is considering a resolution regarding Kia and Hyundai recalls because of thefts. Reports show a 363% rise in Kia thefts between 2021 and 2022 and a 50% jump in Hyundai thefts.
- Thefts of Hyundai and Kia vehicles in Louisville are on the rise.
- Chicago has a record of thefts.
- October 1, 2023: Hyundai, Kia, and Kia have recalled nearly 3.4 million vehicles in America because of fire hazards. This recall includes models such as the Hyundai Santa Fé and Kia Sorento between 2010 and 2019.
Additional Information
Other Kia Lawsuits
Other lawsuits against Kia include
- 2015: Fuccillo Automotive Group has paid $1.6 Million to settle allegations that it sold illegal theft protection packages in New York.
- May 20, 2021: Lawsuit over a design flaw affecting the seatbelts in some newer Kia Soul models.
- 2021 class action: Targeted Kia’s defective “Theta” engines in models such as the Kia Sorento Sportage and Optima between 2011-2018.
- Lawsuits pending: Alleging oil-consumption defects in Kia engines with different engines, including Theta Gamma Lambda Nu and Kappa.
You may be entitled to a settlement if your Kia was stolen in the last few years. Watch for updates as this situation evolves.
FAQs
What is the settlement value?
The settlement is between $80 and $145 million.
What Kia models are involved in the lawsuit?
Kia Sorento, Kia Soul, and other models from 2011-2021 without an engine immobilizer.
How do I claim my settlement?
You must submit a claim along with proof of ownership of the vehicle.
