KIA, Hyundai Class Action Settlement 2024, Claim Form Eligibility, Amount and Important Dates

A settlement fund ranging from $80 million to $145 million has been established following a class action lawsuit against KIA and Hyundai. The lawsuit alleged that certain models manufactured between 2011 and 2022 were designed without engine immobilizers, a critical anti-theft feature. This omission made the vehicles particularly vulnerable to theft, a problem exacerbated by viral how-to videos on platforms like TikTok.

The settlement compensates eligible vehicle owners for theft-related losses and offers a free software upgrade to improve security.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the settlement, individuals must meet these conditions:

1. Vehicle Model: The affected models include:KIA Models
   • Forte (2011–2021)
   • K5 (2021–2022)
   • Optima (2011–2020)
   • Rio (2012–2021)
   • Sedona (2011–2021)
   • Seltos (2021–2022)
   • Sorento (2011–2022)
   • Soul (2020–2022)
   • Sportage (2011–2022)
   Hyundai Models
   Specific Hyundai models were also included in the class but are not explicitly listed here. Check your eligibility via the settlement website.
2. Timeframe: Vehicles must have been purchased or leased between 2011 and 2022.
3. Location: Purchases or leases must have occurred in the United States, including Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam.

Compensation Details

The settlement provides several types of compensation to address the financial and personal impact of the theft risk:

1. Theft or Attempted Theft Reimbursement

• Total Loss Compensation: Up to 60% of the vehicle’s Black Book value if it was stolen and not recovered.
• Theft Damage Costs: Up to $3,375 or 33% of repair costs, whichever is greater. This includes compensation for personal property stolen or damaged during the incident.

2. Reimbursements for Expenses

• Insurance Deductibles: Up to $375 per incident.
• Increased Premiums: Coverage for insurance premium hikes resulting from theft claims.
• Miscellaneous Expenses:
  • Up to $250 for transportation, towing, and penalties.
  • Up to $250 for lost income and childcare costs related to managing the aftermath.

3. Software Upgrades and Key Fob Reimbursements

• Free Software Upgrade: Anti-theft software enhancements for eligible models.
• Key Fobs: Reimbursement of up to $350 per key fob (maximum of two per vehicle).

4. Anti-Theft Device Installation

• Up to $300 reimbursement for devices like steering wheel locks or glass breakage alarms purchased before the software upgrade became available.
• If KIA provided a free steering wheel lock, reimbursement for other anti-theft devices is capped at $250.

How to File a Claim

Eligible vehicle owners must follow these steps to submit a claim:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Visit the official settlement website and enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to confirm if your car qualifies.

Step 2: Gather Documentation

• Proof of ownership or lease (e.g., purchase or lease agreement).
• Evidence of theft or attempted theft (e.g., police reports, insurance claims, or repair invoices).
• Receipts or invoices for out-of-pocket expenses related to theft or anti-theft upgrades.

Step 3: Complete the Claim Form

• Access the claim form on the settlement website or request a paper form.
• Fill in the required details, attaching all necessary documentation.

Step 4: Submit the Claim

• Submit the form online or via mail to the address provided on the settlement website.
• Ensure the form is submitted by the January 11, 2025 deadline.

Settlement Timeline

Event	Date	Description
Lawsuit Filed	2022	The class action lawsuit is filed over missing engine immobilizers.
Preliminary Agreement	Mid-2023	Parties reach an initial settlement agreement.
Preliminary Approval	Late 2023	Court grants preliminary approval, allowing notification of affected class members.
Exclusion/Objection Deadline	May 3, 2024	Last date to exclude yourself or object to the settlement terms.
Final Approval Hearing	July 15, 2024	Court reviews the settlement and decides whether to grant final approval.
Claim Submission Deadline	January 11, 2025	Last day to file claims for compensation.
Claims Processing Begins	Post-January 2025	Processing and distribution of settlement funds to eligible claimants begins.

What Happens Next?

After the January 11, 2025 deadline, submitted claims will be reviewed. If the court grants final approval of the settlement, funds will be distributed to eligible claimants. The amount received will depend on:

• The type and extent of losses or expenses claimed.
• The total number of valid claims filed.

FAQs