In recent years, Hyundai and Kia have faced legal challenges due to certain vehicles lacking engine immobilizers, making them more susceptible to theft. This issue led to a class-action lawsuit resulting in a substantial settlement aimed at compensating affected vehicle owners.
Hyundai Theft Settlement Overview
The lawsuit alleges that Hyundai and Kia sold vehicles without engine immobilizers, increasing their vulnerability to theft. In response, the companies agreed to a settlement to compensate affected owners and lessees. The settlement provides various categories of relief, estimated to value up to $145 million or more in cash relief to class members.
Kia Hyundai Class Action Lawsuit Settlement Explained
The Kia and Hyundai Class Action Lawsuit Settlement addresses major concerns about engine defects and vehicle theft vulnerabilities. Following public outcry, partly fueled by a viral TikTok video showing how easily certain models could be stolen, Kia and Hyundai agreed to a settlement valued between $80 million and $145 million to compensate affected individuals.
This settlement offers financial relief for losses related to thefts or attempted thefts of eligible vehicles, as well as reimbursements for damages, increased insurance costs, and other expenses. To qualify for a payout, eligible individuals must submit a claim form by January 11, 2025, through the official settlement website.
Settlement Payout and Benefits Overview
The settlement establishes a fund of up to $145 million to provide several categories of compensation for those who purchased or leased qualifying Kia and Hyundai vehicles.
Here’s a breakdown of the benefits:
1. Compensation for Total Loss
If your vehicle was completely stolen or declared a total loss after a theft or theft attempt, you can receive 60% of the Black Book value of your car.
2. Damage Reimbursement
For theft-related damages to your vehicle or personal property, you may qualify for up to $3,375 or 33% of the Black Book value of your car.
3. Insurance Costs
Claimants can be reimbursed up to $375 for insurance deductibles or increases in premiums caused by a theft incident.
4. Out-of-Pocket Expenses
Expenses directly related to a qualifying theft (e.g., transportation or repairs) are eligible for up to $250 in reimbursement.
5. Lost Income and Childcare Costs
If a theft or related issue led to lost wages or additional childcare expenses, you can claim up to $250 in compensation.
Reimbursements for Software-Eligible Vehicles
For class vehicles that qualify for a security software upgrade, the settlement offers:
Key Fob Reimbursement: Up to $350 for each key fob (maximum of two per vehicle).
Steering Wheel Lock Reimbursement: Up to $50 for steering wheel locks purchased before the software upgrade became available.
Hyundai Settlement Website
Affected individuals can find comprehensive information about the settlement, eligibility criteria, and claim submission processes on the official Hyundai Theft Settlement website:
Kia and Hyundai Settlement Payout Date
As of January 2025, the settlement has received final approval; however, appeals have delayed the disbursement of payments. The appeals are expected to be resolved between September 2025 and June 2026. Consequently, settlement payouts will commence only after the resolution of these appeals.
Hyundai Theft Settlement Claim Form
Eligible class members can submit their claims through the settlement website. The claim submission deadline is the later of January 11, 2025, or 180 days after the Court issues the Final Approval Order and Judgment. It’s crucial to provide all required documentation to support your claim.
How to Join the Hyundai Class Action Lawsuit
The period to opt into the class-action lawsuit has concluded. Currently, eligible individuals should focus on submitting their claims by the specified deadline to receive compensation.
Hyundai Class Action Lawsuit: Engine Issues
Separate from the theft-related settlement, Hyundai has faced class-action lawsuits concerning engine defects. These lawsuits address issues like engine failures and fires in certain Hyundai models. Affected owners should consult the official Hyundai website or contact customer service for information on these settlements.
Kia Hyundai Settlement
Both Kia and Hyundai are parties to the settlement addressing the theft vulnerabilities. Owners of affected Kia models can find relevant information and submit claims through the official settlement website.
Hyundai Settlement Update Today
As of January 2025, the settlement awaits the resolution of appeals before proceeding with payouts. Affected individuals should regularly check the official settlement website for the latest updates and timelines.
Hyundai Settlement Claim Form 2024
While the claim submission process began in 2024, the deadline extends into 2025. Ensure you complete and submit your claim form by the later of January 11, 2025, or 180 days after the Court issues the Final Approval Order and Judgment.
Hyundai Settlement Website Payout
The official settlement website will provide updates regarding payout timelines and methods once the appeals are resolved. Regularly visiting the site will ensure you receive the most current information.
Hyundai Settlement Payout Date in California
The settlement process and timelines are consistent across all states, including California. Payouts are anticipated to begin after the resolution of appeals, estimated between September 2025 and June 2026. Stay informed through the official settlement website for any state-specific information.
Conclusion
The Hyundai and Kia theft settlement represents a significant effort to compensate vehicle owners affected by security vulnerabilities. While the appeals process has delayed payouts, eligible individuals should ensure their claims are submitted promptly and monitor the official settlement website for updates.
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