Kia and Hyundai Will Pay for Car Stealing Challenge

Automobile giant Kia fell victim to a trend of theft that suddenly became popular in 2022. On TikTok “Kia Challenge”, it showed how Kia and Hyundai vehicles can be stolen with a simple tool such as a USB cable.

After the videos, hundreds of vehicles were stolen in the USA, 14 accidents occurred and 8 people died in these accidents. Today, after the events in question, a decision came from Kia and Hyundai that concerns not only the owners of stolen vehicles, but also all vehicle owners.

$200 million settlement reached:

As a result of the incidents that led to the theft of vehicles without electronic immobilizers between 2015-2019, the two companies were sued in class action lawsuits. $200 million settlement there was. The details shared by Reuters also included important information for vehicle owners.

Reuters said the settlement covers 9 million Kia/Hyundai vehicle owners in the United States and for financial damages to consumers whose cars were stolen. Financing up to $145 million stated. In addition, insurance deductibles, increased insurance premiums and other theft-related losses will also be reimbursed to vehicle owners.

Kia and Hyundai have released an anti-theft security update:

The two companies have recently launched a “anti-theft” announced that he had developed the software and started to distribute the software. If the key inserted in the vehicle is not recognized, the software allows the vehicle to lock itself and turns off the ignition system.

The new agreement also included a detail about this software. The two companies offer customers who do not or cannot receive the update. $300 worth of steering locks and other anti-theft devices will give.