Delaware AG Jennings, States Reach Multistate Settlement With Hyundai and Kia Over Vehicle Theft

DOVER, Delaware – Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings announced a settlement with Hyundai and Kia, part of a multistate effort involving 35 attorneys general, addressing the sale of millions of vehicles without standard engine immobilizers. The defect has been linked to a… The post Delaware AG Jennings, States Reach Multistate Settlement With Hyundai and Kia Over Vehicle Theft appeared first on TV Delmarva Channel 33.

DOVER, Delaware – Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings announced a settlement with Hyundai and Kia, part of a multistate effort involving 35 attorneys general, addressing the sale of millions of vehicles without standard engine immobilizers. The defect has been linked to a sharp rise in vehicle thefts, including in Delaware.
According to information released by the Delaware Attorney General’s Office, the lack of anti-theft technology allowed thieves to start vehicles without a key, contributing to a 284 percent increase in Hyundai and Kia thefts in Delaware from 2022 to 2023. Combined, these vehicles accounted for more than one-third of all auto thefts in the state in 2023.
The settlement requires Hyundai and Kia to provide free zinc-reinforced ignition cylinder protectors for eligible vehicles, expand compensation for consumers who suffered theft or attempted theft after April 29, 2025, and install engine immobilizers on all future U.S. vehicle models. The companies also agreed to offer up to $4.5 million in restitution to affected consumers. “Delaware drivers and law enforcement have paid the price for this oversight,” Jennings said. “The technology to prevent these thefts was widely available, and now this settlement ensures that consumers will finally receive the protections they should have had.”
Consumers who qualify for the ignition cylinder installation will receive notices from Hyundai and Kia and have one year to schedule service at an authorized dealership. Those who previously updated software but still experienced theft may file claims for reimbursement through the settlement websites provided by the companies. The multistate coalition behind the settlement includes Delaware, Connecticut, Minnesota, New Hampshire, California, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, Nevada, and Washington, alongside 25 additional jurisdictions.

For more information on eligibility and compensation, visit:

• Hyundai: www.HKMultistateimmobilizersettlement.com
• Kia: customercare.kiausa.com/SWLD or call 800-333-4542

Photo: Delaware.gov

The post Delaware AG Jennings, States Reach Multistate Settlement With Hyundai and Kia Over Vehicle Theft appeared first on TV Delmarva Channel 33.