Final days for drivers to claim part of $145m payout from vehicle theft settlement – nine models are included

DRIVERS only have a few days left to claim part of a $145 million settlement that has affected nine vehicle models.

After several complaints over vehicle theft, a car manufacturer agreed to settle a class action lawsuit.

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Hyundai, Kia, and other defendants have paid a whopping $145 million settlement to qualm concerns over shoddy vehicles that have left drivers susceptible to auto theft.

Several complaints alleged Hyundai did not manufacture Kia cars with an engine immobilizer which acts as an electronic security device for the vehicle.

Essentially, an immobilizer prevents a car from starting unless the correct key or key fob is used.

“This means that thieves can simply break into the vehicle, remove the steering column cover, jam a makeshift key into the ignition cylinder, and start the car,” a Capital One report explained.

Hyundai, which owns Genesis and Kia models, has not admitted to any wrongdoing.

Drivers who purchased one of these vehicles could be entitled to benefits:

• 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 Sorrento
• 2020-2022 Kia Soul
• 2011-2022 Kia Sportage

Those who are eligible can receive a free software upgrade that will stop vehicles from turning on without the corresponding key or key fob.

Additionally, class members who bought or leased one of these cars can be reimbursed for up to $50 per vehicle.

The money would pay for a steering wheel lock or similar device, but only if drivers purchased at least 30 days before the software upgrade was available.

These are the vehicle models that are eligible for a software upgrade through the class action settlement:

• 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

If you’re unsure about your vehicle’s eligibility, you can use a VIN or vehicle identification number to check.

Class members can alternatively visit the Kia website to double-check whether their car model is eligible for the upgrade.

If their vehicle is eligible, consumers can schedule an installation appointment on the website.

Drivers who purchased or leased a class vehicle that isn’t eligible for the software upgrade can still get up to $300 per vehicle and/or installation of a steering wheel lock or similar anti-theft device.

Class members can also submit a claim for out-of-pocket and uncompensated losses from theft or a theft attempt.

Drivers who were affected have until April 28, 2025, to claim their benefits.

Those affected will be required to present documentation and proof which is dependent on the type of claim they are filing.

The deadline to opt out of or object to the settlement is May 3, 2025.