Kia Hyundai Vehicle Theft Marketing, Sales Practices, and Products Liability Litigation
The scientific causation background is based on the premise that the absence of engine immobilizer technology in certain Kia and Hyundai vehicles constitutes a defect that significantly increases the risk of theft. This defect indirectly causes damages such as property loss, injuries, and emotional distress. Statistical evidence indicates higher theft rates for vehicles lacking immobilizers, which correlates with increased safety risks and psychological impacts on owners. The legal arguments rely on expert testimony and statistical data to establish that the defect is a substantial factor in the damages claimed, fulfilling the causation requirement in product liability law.
100
Pending actions
117
Total actions filed
Active
Status
12/13/2022
Established
Filing deadline
Claims are to be filed within 120 days of the notice date, which is generally 120 days after the court's final approval in late 2025. Specific deadlines are detailed in the settlement notices and court orders.
Who qualifies
Plaintiffs qualify if they owned or leased Kia or Hyundai vehicles within the specified model years (Kia: 2011-2022; Hyundai: 2015-2022) that lack engine immobilizer technology, and their vehicle was stolen or attempted theft occurred. They must provide proof such as police reports, insurance claims, medical records if injuries are claimed, and evidence linking the theft to the alleged defect. Incidents must have occurred within the model years and be supported by documentation. The damages include property loss, injury, emotional distress, and increased costs.
Products involved
- Kia vehicles (2011-2022)
Alleged injuries
- Physical injuries during theft or attempted theft
- Emotional distress
- Property damage beyond the vehicle itself
- Increased insurance premiums
Bellwether trials
The case received final settlement approval in late 2025. Settlement payments are scheduled to commence in mid-2024, with ongoing rolling payments for approved claims. No recent verdicts are reported as the case is settled.
Settlement landscape
The settlement includes a $9 million multistate settlement addressing vehicle theft issues, with payments and safety upgrades ongoing. The case has resulted in significant financial settlements, including multi-million dollar agreements, and authorities across multiple states have imposed fines and mandated upgrades. The settlement process involves claims for property loss, injuries, emotional distress, and safety risks, with payments scheduled to begin in mid-2024.
Lead counsel
- Steve Berman
This page is generated from the official JPML pending-MDL report and public court records, refreshed monthly. It is provided for attorney reference and is not legal advice.
