CRIME & LAW

States Secure Hyundai, Kia Settlement Over Theft Surge

PUBLISHED Dec 16, 2025, 1:23 PM ET

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States Secure Hyundai, Kia Settlement Over Theft Surge

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Sources: 11

Washington — State attorneys general and automakers Hyundai and Kia announced a multistate settlement Tuesday resolving claims that millions of vehicles were sold without industry-standard engine immobilizers, enabling widespread thefts. Under the agreement, the companies will offer free zinc‑reinforced ignition cylinder protectors or equivalent hardware for eligible vehicles, equip all future U.S. models with engine immobilizers, and provide up to $9 million in restitution to consumers and states. Attorneys general said eligible vehicles span model years roughly 2011–2022, with estimates of millions of cars affected; companies estimated retrofit costs could exceed $500 million. Based on 11 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Faro B. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

2020–2023: Reports of rising Hyundai and Kia thefts linked to missing immobilizers.
2023: Social-media videos popularize a method to start certain cars without keys.
Mid-2023: Local police and reporters document large theft spikes in multiple cities.
2023–2025: Bipartisan coalition of 35 attorneys general investigates and negotiates with automakers.
Dec. 16: Settlement announced requiring retrofits, future immobilizers, and limited restitution.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
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Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 11
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Who Benefited

Consumers with eligible Hyundai and Kia vehicles, state governments, and public safety agencies benefited from the settlement because owners received free hardware retrofits, limited restitution, and states recovered investigative costs while automaker commitments aim to reduce future thefts.

Who Impacted

Vehicle owners who experienced thefts and communities affected by increased crime suffered losses and safety risks; Hyundai and Kia incurred financial costs, reputational damage, and mandatory retrofit obligations under the settlement.