URGENT UPDATE: Hyundai and Kia have just announced a nationwide settlement that requires them to repair 9 million vehicles to fix serious anti-theft vulnerabilities. This comes as vehicle thefts of these brands have skyrocketed, prompting a swift response from authorities led by Minnesota’s Attorney General Keith Ellison.
Under the terms of the settlement, revealed on October 31, 2023, the automakers will offer free repairs to eligible vehicles, potentially costing them over $500 million. The settlement impacts models sold from 2011 to 2022 and mandates that all future vehicles sold in the U.S. must include vital anti-theft technology known as an engine immobilizer.
Ellison stated that this settlement is the result of a coordinated effort involving 35 states, including major markets like California, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. The recent surge in thefts has been exacerbated by viral TikTok videos that demonstrated how to steal these cars using minimal tools, leading to an alarming 836% increase in thefts in Minneapolis alone from 2021 to 2022.
“This crisis started in a boardroom, traveled through the Internet, and ended in tragic consequences,” Ellison emphasized at a press conference, highlighting the human cost of these thefts. Victims included families affected by crashes involving stolen vehicles, underscoring the urgency of these repairs.
As part of the settlement, Hyundai and Kia are required to install a zinc sleeve designed to prevent thieves from accessing a vehicle’s ignition cylinder. Eligible customers will be notified and will have one year from the date of the notice to get the repairs done at authorized dealerships. The repairs are expected to be rolled out between early 2026 and early 2027.
“Kia is eager to continue working with law enforcement and officials at all levels to combat car theft,” the company stated, emphasizing its commitment to improving vehicle security.
The settlement aims not only to rectify the current vulnerabilities but also to restore public confidence in the safety of Hyundai and Kia vehicles. As car thefts continue to pose risks, this move represents a significant step toward safeguarding consumers.
For millions of owners, this represents a pivotal moment in ensuring the security of their vehicles. Authorities are watching closely as these repairs begin, raising hopes that the tide of thefts can be reversed.
Stay tuned for further updates as Hyundai and Kia implement these critical changes in response to this urgent issue. This developing story highlights the ongoing challenges in automotive security and the proactive steps being taken to address them.
