USA: Hyundai, Kia agree to $200 million settlement over thefts

The settlement covers 9 million owners in the USA and up to $145 million for losses for customers whose cars were stolen.

Last year, a video on social media went viral, demonstrating how easy it was to steal certain 2011-2012 produced Hyundai & Kia vehicles.

The video led to multiple problems for the two Korean carmakers, from various insurance companies refusing to cover the specific models, to a class-action lawsuit from owners with affected cars. Hyundai and Kia rolled out a number of updates to the specified models, to address the issue and prevent theft.

Now, both Hyundai & Kia have agreed to a consumer class-action lawsuit settlement of over $200 million. As per lawyers, the settlement covers 9 million owners in the USA and up to $145 million for losses for customers whose cars were stolen. As a result of the lawsuit, owners who experienced a total loss of their vehicle might be entitled to receive up to $6,125; while vehicle owners who experienced car and personal property damage could get around $3,375.

Lawyers also stated owners could be reimbursed for, "insurance-related expenses and other related expenses including car rental, taxi costs, ride share costs or public transit payments not otherwise covered by insurance."

While Hyundai and Kia rolled out software updates, not all models were eligible. Hence, in case a vehicle cannot receive a software update, then both brands will provide up to $300 towards the purchase of steering wheel locks and other theft deterrents.

Source: Autoblog