And this is only the beginning of the long journeys ahead towards the due processing of compensation claims for affected drivers. Details of the $145 million settlement approved between Kia and Hyundai indicate that the car owners and lessees across the U.S. were claiming that weak anti-theft measures allowed their cars to be easily stolen. Some drivers could get as much as $3,000. But right now, the clock is running on claims submission.
Why have they paid?
Owners of Kia and Hyundai have complained of inefficient anti-theft mechanisms across many models of these vehicles. Some car companies had developed engine immobilizers to fend off unauthorized starts. But Kia and Hyundai opted for a plainly opening wrench ignition system, which was an open invitation for thieves. The underground trade capitalized on this, spurred on greatly by a quirky TikTok trend where even kids with basic criminal skills managed to steal cars with little more than tools like screwdrivers.
The trend was presented as the Kia Boys on inner TikTok and went viral during the late 2020s, where children made videos showing just how easy the cars are to steal based on nothing other than a screwdriver. As more and more cars were stolen, demand reached a steep climb, especially among models that most lacked advanced anti-theft devices. With the phenomenon going viral, it opened up a huge security flaw in several models and worried many car owners.
Who might file a claim to be compensated?
While Kia and Hyundai never admitted to wrongdoing, they opted to pay up and settle out of court to avoid long and costly official proceedings. The settlement will apply to anyone that owns or leases a car that was stolen or patched from these issues, and adhering to the conditions of settlement gives them a right to up to $3,375 in payment. However, time is running out to submit your claim.
Car owners of Kia or Hyundai should know before it happens, how to protect their vehicles:
- Always park in a well-lit area or in a garage, and off the street.
- Install an anti-theft alarm if your car didn’t already come with one.
- Use any kind of immobilizing device, like a steering wheel lock.
- Install in-car GPS tracking so your car can be tracked down again if it is stolen.
Owners who had software installed for free
To address the security flaws, Kia and Hyundai are offering free service appointments to any owner who requests one. A dealer will reinstall the software in your car’s computer and return it with new anti-theft features. Most have praised these measures. Maria Mata, a Kia owner, was relieved after getting her software update: “I had them install that free software while I was at the dealership,” she said, appreciating that the upgrade cost her nothing.
If you are eligible for the settlement, make sure to file your claim today. You will need to provide the necessary proof that your vehicle was affected by security flaws when sold. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully when filing your claim.
Statements from the companies
Both Kia and Hyundai have said that no car is theft-proof, but they are “constantly looking for ways to improve security.” Kia has issued free steering wheel locks via local law enforcement, while Hyundai has made engine immobilizers standard in every vehicle produced after November 2021. This settlement is a milestone in addressing security vulnerabilities and offering relief to affected drivers.
For owners of qualifying Kia and Hyundai vehicles, file your claim soon before these enhancements become unavailable to your affected drivers. For owners of qualifying Kia and Hyundai vehicles, file your claim soon before these enhancements become unavailable to you.
