Several reports of car thefts involving specific Kia models have sparked a massive concern among its owners in recent years. This is why a class action lawsuit has been filed against Hyundai/Kia Motors. If you are unfamiliar with it, a class action lawsuit is a legal action taken by a group of individuals who have suffered similar harm from the same defendant.
The legal proceeding against Kia alleges that their models are easier to steal due to a defect from the brand’s end, such as the inability to manufacture vehicles with an anti-theft device called an engine immobilizer. So, if you are a Kia owner and you’ve been affected by this issue, you may be eligible to join the legal dispute.
Below is a comprehensive guide that will walk you through the steps you need to take to join the lawsuit and claim your rights as a consumer.
1. Understanding The Issue
The foremost thing you need to do is understand the nature of the issue. Several reports have surfaced stating that certain 2011 to 2022 model-year Kia vehicles may be exposed to theft due to alleged defects in their security systems, including failure to manufacture Class Vehicles with an anti-theft device called an engine immobilizer.
Affected model owners have reported incidents of unauthorized access and theft, leading to financial losses and mental distress.
2. Lawsuit Current Status
Angeion Group is the Kia Theft Settlement Administrator. On March 4, 2024, they announced a proposed settlement in the ongoing product liability class action litigation ordered by the Federal Court in California.
A. The settling defendants, Hyundai/Kia Motors, have agreed to the establishment of a Common Fund of at least $80 Million and up to $145 Million for the payment of approved claims for:
- certain out of pocket
- and uncompensated losses incurred due to a qualifying theft attempt or qualifying theft.
B. A Software Upgrade that will prevent automobiles locked with a key or key fob from starting without the key being present is also available for specific Class Models. This upgrade will be free for all eligible Class Cars at authorized Kia dealerships.
C. Software-upgrade motor vehicles are also eligible for reimbursement up to $250 for lost income and/or childcare costs.
D. Reimbursement of up to $50 will be offered for a steering wheel lock.
E. The reimbursement for OEM-issued key fobs purchased at the direction of a Kia dealership to implement the software will also be offered. About $350 will be offered per key fob, with a limit of up to two keys per class car.
F. The class vehicles that are not eligible for the software upgrade will get compensation of up to $300 for purchasing and installing a steering wheel lock from Kia, whether directly or indirectly.
Suggestion: Next-Gen Ford Blue Cruise Vehicles
3. Identify Your Eligibility and Submit Claim
Now that you are all set with what is happening with the lawsuit and what settlements the defendants have accepted, the next step is to determine whether your vehicle is eligible.
You are eligible to join the trial and get compensation if you are someone who has either purchased or leased one of the following vehicles in the U.S., including Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam:
- 2011-2021 Kia Forte
- 2021-2022 Kia K5
- 2011-2020 Kia Optima
- 2012-2021 Kia Rio
- 2011-2021 Kia Sedona
- 2021-2022 Kia Seltos
- 2011-2022 Kia Sorento
- 2020-2022 Kia Soul
- 2011-2022 Kia Sportage
And within 50 U.S. states, the following vehicles are eligible for Software Upgrade:
- 2014-2021 Kia Forte
- 2021-2022 Kia K5
- 2011-2020 Kia Optima
- 2012-2021 Kia Rio
- 2011-2021 Kia Sedona
- 2021-2022 Kia Seltos
- 2011-2022 Kia Sorento
- 2020-2022 Kia Soul
- 2011-2022 Kia Sportage
Note: Class Vehicles in Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands are not eligible for the software update.
The following vehicles in 50 U.S. states are qualified for reimbursement of $250 and $300 for installing or purchasing an anti-theft system:
- 2011-2015 Kia Forte
- 2011-2021 Kia Rio
- 2011-2021 Kia Soul
- 2011-2014 Kia Sportage
- 2014 Kia Sedona
Note: This benefit is eligible for all class vehicles in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam.
To be 100% sure, you can check your eligibility here.
4. Consult With A Lawyer
While it is not mandatory, consult a lawyer once you confirm your ride is eligible for the class action lawsuit.
It is highly recommended to take the assistance of some experienced attorneys specializing in class action litigation. They can provide the legal advice you need, help you understand your rights better, guide you through complex legal proceedings, and effectively advocate for your rights.
5. Gather Necessary Documents
To support your claim in the Kia theft class action lawsuit, you must gather relevant evidence stating that you have been affected by the alleged defect. The evidence could include documents like police reports, insurance claims, repair invoices, and any other relevant records showing that your vehicle was damaged or stolen.
In addition, if you have well-maintained communication records with Kia dealerships or customer service representatives, they can help you significantly build your case.
6. Decide Whether To Join The Legal Process Or Exclude Yourself
The next step is deciding whether you wish to join this fight or opt-out.
- Join The Lawsuit
If you decide to join the legal dispute, you must submit a claim form by following necessary guidelines. This form will require you to provide relevant information about yourself, your vehicle, and the details of the theft incident.
Once you submit your claim form, the legal team handling the case will review it, and you will be notified of any further developments. The deadline to submit a reimbursement claim is January 11, 2025.
- Exclude Yourself
If you decide to exclude yourself but take no action, you will be treated as part of the Settlement Class, meaning you will not be able to file or be part of any pending or future lawsuit against Hyundai/Kia Motors regarding the legal claims in this case.
So, if you wish to keep the window open for you to sue the Defendants, you must exclude yourself by submitting a request for exclusion by May 3, 2024.
7. Understand Your Rights
As a participant in the Kia theft class action lawsuit, you must understand your rights and the potential outcomes of the legal proceedings. You may be required to participate in legal proceedings, such as attending court hearings or providing additional evidence, which your class representative or attorney will generally handle.
If the suit at law is successful, the court will offer compensation to the eligible claimants in the form of monetary damages or other appropriate remedies.
8. Wait For The Result
You must wait for the final result now that you have joined the battle and filed all the necessary evidence.
You will be entitled to compensation if the court rules in favor of the plaintiffs. However, you need to understand that the outcome of the case may vary depending on various factors, like the strength of the evidence and the decisions of the presiding judge.
And if you come out as someone entitled to compensation, the amount of compensation will also depend on factors like:
- Extent of your damage
- Terms of the settlement
9. Stay Informed
The final step is to stay informed about any developments or updates regarding the case. It may include:
- monitoring communication from your legal representation
- checking press releases or news articles related to the indictment
- staying engaged with online communities or forums, where affected individuals share information and support one another
In conclusion, to join the ongoing Kia theft class action lawsuit, you need to stay informed, assess your eligibility, consult with an attorney, gather necessary documents and evidence, register to join the case, be prepared to participate in legal proceedings, and closely monitor all related news.
The final approval hearing will be held on July 15, 2024, at the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California to decide whether to approve the Settlement. However, the hearing may be rescheduled without further notice to the Class.
For more information, you can:
- Visit KiaTheftSettlement
- Call the Kia Theft Settlement Administrator at (844) 966-2773,
- Email [email protected].
