The Kia Theft Settlement was set up after huge spike of vehicle thefts affected many Hyundai and Kia owners. Do you know why? Because these cars were built without proper anti-theft systems, making them easy targets for thieves. As a result, owners faced financial losses, costly repairs, and high insurance premiums.
This lawsuit held Hyundai and Kia accountable for not meeting basic safety standards. Now, owners can get compensation for losses, damages, and other related costs. Use the VIN lookup tool on the settlement site to see if your car qualifies. Moreover, submit your claim before January 11, 2025, for reimbursement!
Background of the Kia Theft Lawsuit
The Kia Theft Lawsuit began responding to increased thefts involving Hyundai and Kia vehicles between 2011 and 2022. These vehicles were targeted because they lacked an essential anti-theft feature known as an immobilizer. Moreover, this flaw enabled crooks to take them via a USB cable or similar means.
However, the theft issue gained attention as videos of the theft tactic became popular on social media sites. As a result, millions of vehicle owners suffered major financial losses, damage, and increased insurance premiums. The class action lawsuit was filed to hold Hyundai and Kia accountable because the owners claimed that the company failed to provide their vehicles with essential anti-theft devices.
Key Compensation Details:
- Total Compensation Amount: Up to $200 million.
- Eligible Claims: Total loss reimbursement, partial damage, stolen property compensation, and out-of-pocket expenses.
- Maximum Reimbursement:
- Up to 60% of the Black Book value for total vehicle loss.
- Up to 33% of the Black Book value or $3,375 for partial damage or stolen personal property.
- Up to $375 for increased insurance premiums.
- Up to $300 for anti-theft devices like steering wheel locks.
- Eligible Vehicles: This settlement covers various Hyundai and Kia models manufactured from 2011 to 2022. Below is a detailed table showing eligible models:
| Hyundai Models | Kia Models |
| 2011-2012 Accent | 2011-2021 Forte |
| 2011-2022 Elantra | 2021-2022 K5 |
| 2011-2014 Genesis Coupe | 2011-2020 Optima |
| 2018-2022 Kona | 2011-2021 Rio |
| 2020-2021 Palisade | 2011-2021 Sedona |
| 2011-2022 Santa Fe | 2021-2022 Seltos |
| 2011-2022 Tucson | 2010-2022 Soul |
| 2012-2017 Veloster | 2011-2022 Sorento |
| 2020-2021 Venue | 2011-2022 Sportage |
Important Dates and Deadlines:
- Final Approval Hearing: July 15, 2024.
- Claim Submission Deadline: January 11, 2025.
- Exclusion or Objection Deadline: May 3, 2024.
Claim Submission Process:
- Owners must submit their claims and required documentation, such as proof of theft, insurance claims, and expenses.
- Claims can be submitted on the Kia Theft Settlement Website.
Additional Reimbursement Information:
- Total Loss Reimbursement: Owners will receive compensation based on the Black Book value of their vehicles, including taxes and fees.
- Partial Damage Compensation: Damages not resulting in a total loss, like broken windows or stolen property, are reimbursed up to 33% of the vehicle’s value or $3,375.
- Insurance Premium Reimbursement: Owners can receive up to $375 per incident for increased premiums due to theft-related claims.
This settlement provides a comprehensive resolution for affected owners. It’s essential to act before deadlines to secure compensation.
Compensation Details for Qualifying Losses
The Kia Theft Settlement provides a Common Fund of $80,000,000 to $145,000,000 for Class Members who experienced qualifying theft or attempted theft. Below are the details of eligible losses covered under the settlement:
- Total Loss Reimbursement: Up to 60% of the Black Book value if the vehicle was a total loss due to qualifying theft or attempted theft.
- Damage Reimbursement: Up to $3,375 or 33% of the vehicle’s value for damages caused by qualifying or attempted theft.
- Insurance Costs: Up to $375 for insurance deductibles or increased premiums.
- Additional Expenses: Up to $250 for towing, transportation, penalties, or fines incurred from the theft incident.
- Lost Income or Childcare Costs: Up to $250 for time spent getting the software upgrade.
- Key Fob Reimbursement: Up to $350 per OEM key fob is required for the software upgrade, with a maximum of two fobs per vehicle.
These benefits help compensate for various out-of-pocket losses owners might have faced.
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Legal Rights of the Owners in This Settlement
Owners involved in the Kia Theft Settlement have several legal rights:
- Right to Compensation: Eligible owners can claim compensation for theft-related losses, vehicle damages, or increased insurance premiums.
- Right to Object or Exclude: Owners can file objections or exclude themselves from the settlement by May 3, 2024. This allows them to pursue separate legal action or entirely opt out of the settlement.
- Right to Attend Hearings: Owners can attend the final fairness hearing scheduled for July 15, 2024.
- Right to Legal Representation: Owners are represented by class counsel and can hire separate attorneys if needed.
These rights ensure that owners can seek compensation fairly and transparently.
How to File a Claim for the Kia Theft Settlement
To successfully file a claim for the Kia Theft Settlement, follow these detailed steps:
1. Check Your Vehicle
Use the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) lookup tool on the Kia Theft Settlement Website to determine eligibility for your vehicle. Enter your VIN, which can be found on your vehicle’s registration or the driver’s side dashboard.
2. Gather Documentation
Gather all relevant papers. However, this includes purchase records, repair receipts, police reports, insurance claims, and any other documentation that demonstrates loss or expenses related to the theft.
3. Submit Your Claim
Visit the settlement website and carefully check the claim form. Moreover, provide accurate information about your car, the incident, and supporting documentation. Submit the claim by January 11, 2025, and watch its progress on the website.
These steps ensure you file your claim correctly and maximize your reimbursement based on the losses you’ve experienced.