A recent nationwide settlement announced by a group of state attorneys general is requiring Hyundai and Kia to provide free hardware fixes and restitution to vehicle owners after selling millions of vehicles without industry-standard anti-theft immobilizers. This oversight led to a surge in thefts across the country and contributed to a significant increase in crime in cities like Chicago.
Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul highlighted that the agreement will ensure that every eligible Hyundai and Kia owner receives a zinc-reinforced ignition cylinder protector at no cost, even if their vehicle had previously only qualified for a software update to address the issue. The settlement also mandates that all future vehicles from the manufacturers must be equipped with immobilizer technology.
Between 2011 and 2022, Hyundai and Kia sold popular models in the United States without immobilizers, despite including them in the same models sold in other countries. This absence of a crucial security feature made these vehicles easy targets for thieves, especially after videos circulated on social media showing how the vehicles could be started without keys.
In Chicago, a cultural phenomenon emerged with the rise of the “Kia boys,” referring to groups of juveniles who exploited the ignition design flaw to steal Kia and Hyundai vehicles. These thefts were often documented on social media platforms, showcasing joyrides and stunts performed with the stolen vehicles. The increase in auto thefts, particularly involving Kia and Hyundai models, skyrocketed in Cook County during this period.
The stolen vehicles were not only used for joyriding but also as getaway vehicles for offenders involved in violent crimes, such as robbery sprees that plagued various parts of the city. The spike in thefts led to major insurance carriers refusing to issue new policies for vulnerable models, leaving some owners without coverage.
In response to mounting pressure, Hyundai and Kia initially rolled out a software update to address the issue. However, states argued that thieves quickly found ways to bypass this fix. The manufacturers later offered ignition cylinder protectors, but only a small percentage of vehicles qualified for the installation. The recent settlement now ensures that all eligible owners can receive the hardware fix at no cost.
Consumers will have one year from the formal notice date to schedule the installation at authorized dealerships. Additionally, a restitution program will be available to owners who experienced a theft or attempted theft after a certain date, covering specific out-of-pocket expenses.
For more information on eligibility and claim instructions, visit the official website. This settlement aims to rectify the security lapse in Hyundai and Kia vehicles, providing peace of mind to owners and helping to curb the rise in auto thefts associated with the missing immobilizer technology.
