Hyundai, KIA Class Action Settlement 2025, Claim Form Eligibility, Amount and Important Dates
Hyundai and Kia Class Action Settlement 2025: Everything You Need to Know
In a landmark class action settlement, Hyundai and Kia have agreed to resolve claims from vehicle owners regarding the lack of adequate theft-prevention measures in certain models. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the settlement, including eligibility, claim forms, compensation amounts, and important deadlines.
What’s the Settlement About?
The lawsuit arose after it was revealed that many 2011–2022 Hyundai and Kia vehicles lacked an essential anti-theft device called an engine immobilizer, making them vulnerable to theft. Viral social media trends further exploited these vulnerabilities, leading to increased theft rates across the U.S. Hyundai and Kia have since agreed to a settlement worth approximately $145 million to compensate affected vehicle owners.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible participants include current and former owners or lessees of specific 2011–2022 Hyundai and Kia vehicles sold in the U.S. Here is a summary of included models:
- Hyundai: Accent, Elantra, Kona, Santa Fe, Sonata, Tucson, and others.
- Kia: Forte, Optima, Rio, Sorento, Soul, Sportage, and others.
To qualify, claimants must provide proof of ownership or lease, as well as documentation of theft or attempted theft (e.g., police reports, insurance claims, or repair invoices).
What Compensation Is Available?
The settlement covers several types of losses and expenses:
Reimbursement for Losses:
- Up to $6,125 for vehicles deemed a total loss.
- Up to $3,375 for repairs due to theft-related damage.
- $375 for increased insurance premiums or related costs.
Preventative Measures:
- Free anti-theft software updates for eligible vehicles.
- Reimbursement up to $250 for steering wheel locks or anti-theft devices purchased prior to the settlement.
Additional Benefits:
- Reimbursement for rental cars, towing, or other associated costs (up to $250 per incident).
- Compensation for up to two replacement key fobs at $350 each if required for the software upgrade.
How to File a Claim?
Eligible participants can file claims online or via mail:
a) Online Submission: Visit the official settlement websites (Hyundai Settlement Site and Kia Settlement Site).
b) Gather Required Documentation:
- Proof of ownership or lease.
- Documentation of any theft or attempted theft incidents, if applicable.
- Receipts or invoices for any out-of-pocket expenses related to theft attempts, including insurance deductibles and replacement costs for stolen items.
d) Submit the Claim Form – You can Submit your completed claim form online through the settlement website or by mail to the designated address.
Important Deadlines
- Claim Filing Deadline: March 31, 2025.
- Notification of Eligibility: By March 4, 2024.
- Final Approval Hearing: Scheduled for July 15, 2024.
What’s Next?
The settlement still awaits final court approval. Once approved, payments will be distributed to eligible claimants. For now, vehicle owners are encouraged to gather relevant documentation and submit claims before the deadline.
Conclusion
This settlement provides a crucial opportunity for Hyundai and Kia owners to recoup losses and mitigate future risks. If you’re eligible, don’t miss the chance to claim your compensation by visiting the settlement websites and submitting the required forms promptly.
For the latest updates, visit the official settlement websites or consult legal resources.