Kia Engine Immobilizer Lawsuit (May 2025 Update)

Kia Engine Immobilizer Lawsuit Overview

The Kia Engine Immobilizer lawsuits center on allegations that certain Kia vehicles were manufactured without engine immobilizers, making them exceptionally vulnerable to theft. Plaintiffs claim Kia knowingly produced vehicles that are "easy to steal, unsafe and worth less than they should be." These security defects have contributed to thousands of thefts nationwide, further exacerbated by social media trends encouraging theft of these vehicles. Despite acknowledging the issue, plaintiffs allege that Kia has refused to adequately address the problem or compensate affected consumers.

Latest Kia Engine Immobilizer Lawsuit Updates

June 5, 2024

– CBT News reports that Kia and Hyundai have reached a settlement in a major class action lawsuit over vehicle thefts tied to missing engine immobilizers in several 2011–2022 models [1].

February 28, 2024 – According to USA Today, Hyundai and Kia owners can expect software updates and possible reimbursement after a settlement resolved claims that missing engine immobilizers made certain models highly vulnerable to theft.

February 21, 2024 – Top Class Actions reports that Kia agreed to a $145 million class action settlement over vehicle thefts caused by the lack of engine immobilizers, with consumers eligible to claim expenses related to these security flaws.

NHTSA Reports and Theft Statistics

The NHTSA oversees vehicle standards, and several alarming statistics underscore the theft issues tied to Kia and Hyundai vehicles lacking engine immobilizers:

By September 2022, TikTok content related to the 'Kia Boys' theft challenge had garnered over 33 million views.
85% increase in Kia and Hyundai thefts in Los Angeles between 2021 and 2022.
767% increase in Kia and Hyundai thefts in Chicago between July and mid-August 2022 compared to the same period in 2021.
Over one-third of all car thefts in St. Petersburg, Florida, since mid-July 2022, were linked to the social media challenge.

Milwaukee Filmmaker Shines Light on "Kia Boys" in Documentary: CBS News Video

The absence of engine immobilizers in affected Kia vehicles has led to numerous serious consequences for vehicle owners:

Increased Theft Risk: Vehicles without immobilizers can be stolen using just a USB cord or flathead screwdriver
Financial Losses: Depreciated vehicle values, higher insurance premiums, and out-of-pocket expenses for anti-theft devices
Vehicle Damage: Significant damage to steering columns and ignition systems during theft attempts
Extended Repair Waits: As noted in the lawsuit, victims like Johnson are left without vehicles "for months" while waiting for replacement parts

Do You Qualify for a Kia Engine Immobilizer Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Kia Engine Immobilizer lawsuit if:

You own or owned a 2011-2021 Kia model (Optima, Soul, Sorento, Forte, or Sportage) that uses a steel key rather than a fob and push-button start
Your vehicle was stolen or damaged due to a theft attempt
You have experienced financial losses, including repair costs, insurance increases, or diminished vehicle value
You can provide documentation of your vehicle purchase and any related theft incidents

Evidence Required for a Kia Engine Immobilizer Lawsuit

Proof of vehicle ownership (title, registration, purchase documents)
Police reports documenting theft or attempted theft
Evidence of financial damages (repair bills, insurance premium increases, rental car costs)
Documentation showing your vehicle is one of the affected models without an engine immobilizer

Damages You Can Recover

Repair costs for vehicle damage
Compensation for stolen vehicle (if not recovered)
Reimbursement for alternative transportation costs
Compensation for increased insurance premiums
Recovery for diminished vehicle value
Potential punitive damages against the manufacturer

Kia Recall Information

In February 2023, Hyundai announced a free anti-theft software upgrade for affected vehicles to prevent the ignition bypass method popularized by thieves, rather than a purchasable security kit. By December 2023, Kia had also implemented a free anti-theft software upgrade and, for ineligible vehicles, a free ignition cylinder protector, aligning with Hyundai’s approach. Kia has provided over 325,000 free steering wheel locks or 'Club' devices to owners of affected vehicles and implemented voluntary anti-theft upgrades, but has not issued a comprehensive NHTSA-mandated recall to address the lack of engine immobilizers, which it does not classify as a safety defect under federal standards.

Statute of Limitations for Kia Engine Immobilizer Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a Kia Engine Immobilizer lawsuit varies by state but typically ranges from 2-6 years from the date you discovered (or reasonably should have discovered) that your vehicle lacked proper security features. Since this issue gained widespread attention in 2022, many potential claimants still have time to file, but the clock is ticking.

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FAQs

1. What is an engine immobilizer and why is it important?

An engine immobilizer is a security device that uses an electronic chip embedded in the ECU of the vehicle to comprehend smart key codes and turn on the ignition. It prevents the engine from starting without the vehicle's authentic and authorized keys, significantly reducing theft risk.

2. Which Kia models are affected by the engine immobilizer issue?

The affected vehicles include 2011-2021 Kia models (Optima, Soul, Sorento, Forte, and Sportage) that use a steel key rather than a fob and push-button start.

3. How does the "Kia Boys" TikTok challenge relate to this lawsuit?

The "Kia Boys" TikTok challenge encourages people to steal affected Kia and Hyundai vehicles using just a USB cable or screwdriver. This social media trend has significantly increased thefts of these vehicles across the United States since early 2021.

4. Has Kia taken any steps to address the theft risks with their vehicles?

Unlike Hyundai, which offered a security kit in October 2022, Kia has not offered a comprehensive solution. They currently recommend using traditional anti-theft devices like steering wheel locks or "Club" devices.

5. How does the absence of an engine immobilizer affect vehicle insurance coverage?

The absence of an engine immobilizer can lead to higher insurance premiums as insurers consider these vehicles higher theft risks. Some insurance companies may impose restrictions or even refuse coverage for vehicles lacking this critical security feature.

6. What compensation might I receive from a successful lawsuit?

Potential compensation includes repair costs, reimbursement for stolen vehicles, alternative transportation expenses, compensation for increased insurance premiums, recovery for diminished vehicle value, and possibly punitive damages.

7. Can I still join a class action if my car hasn't been stolen yet?

Yes, you may still qualify for a class action lawsuit even if your vehicle hasn't been stolen, as the lawsuit also addresses diminished vehicle value and the increased risk of theft due to the security defect.

8. How long do I have to file a claim in the Kia Engine Immobilizer lawsuit?

The statute of limitations varies by state (typically 2-6 years) from the date you discovered the defect. Since widespread awareness emerged in 2022, many potential claimants still have time to file.

9. What should I do to protect my affected Kia vehicle from theft?

Consider using a steering wheel lock or "Club" device, parking in well-lit areas or secured garages, installing aftermarket alarm systems, and consulting with your dealership about any available security upgrades.

10. Is this lawsuit only against Kia or does it include Hyundai as well?

While this specific article focuses on Kia, many of the class action lawsuits include both Kia and Hyundai Motors as defendants since both manufacturers produced vehicles with similar security defects.

See the other product liability litigations our lawyers have taken on.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action regarding Kia Engine Immobilizer defects. Most states have a statute of limitations of only 2-6 years from the date you discovered the security defect in your vehicle. With each passing day, your right to seek compensation may be diminishing.

Our legal team at Schmidt & Clark, LLP offers:

Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
No upfront costs or fees for our legal services
Payment only if we win your case through settlement or verdict

Don't wait until it's too late to seek the compensation you deserve. Contact Schmidt & Clark, LLP today to protect your rights and join the fight for accountability.

Reference:

[1] https://www.cbtnews.com/settlement-reached-in-kia-hyundai-vehicle-theft-class-action-lawsuit/

Kia Engine Immobilizer Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates