UPDATE: Hyundai and Kia are set to offer free repairs for millions of vehicles as part of a landmark settlement announced today by Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison. This urgent action comes after a coalition of 35 states exposed significant flaws in the vehicles’ anti-theft technology, leaving them alarmingly vulnerable to thefts.
The nationwide settlement, which could cost the automakers over $500 million, requires Hyundai and Kia to install crucial anti-theft devices known as engine immobilizers in all future vehicles sold in the U.S. Additionally, the companies will pay up to $4.5 million in restitution to victims whose cars were stolen.
Between 2011 and 2022, approximately 9 million vehicles sold across the nation will be eligible for these repairs. Reports indicate an astonishing 836% increase in thefts of Hyundai and Kia vehicles in Minneapolis alone from 2021 to 2022, a surge fueled by viral TikTok videos illustrating how to steal these cars using just a screwdriver and a USB cable.
Ellison highlighted the devastating consequences of these thefts, stating, “This crisis started in a boardroom, traveled through the Internet, and ended up in tragic results.” He emphasized the need for the automotive giants to have implemented the same safety measures in the U.S. that they used in Mexico and Canada.
At a press conference, Ellison was joined by Twin Cities officials and victims of car theft, including a woman whose mother was killed when a stolen Kia crashed into her parents’ vehicle. Another victim recounted the traumatic experience of having his car stolen nine times, including a theft as recent as Monday night, despite previous attempts to address the issue through software fixes.
To combat this rampant theft issue, Hyundai and Kia will now install a zinc sleeve designed to prevent thieves from easily cracking open vehicles’ ignition cylinders. Eligible customers will have one year from the date of notification to receive repairs at authorized dealerships, with services expected to be available from early 2026 to early 2027.
In response to the settlement, Kia released a statement expressing its commitment to improving vehicle security and collaborating with law enforcement to tackle this growing problem. The company acknowledged the role social media has played in fostering car theft and reiterated its dedication to customer safety.
As the impact of this settlement unfolds, millions of vehicle owners can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that solutions are on the way. Stay tuned for further updates on the rollout of these critical repairs.
