Kia owners seeking payment under the multistate theft settlement must file a valid claim by March 31, 2027. Claims go through the official portal at HKMultistateImmobilizerSettlement.com, according to the California attorney general's proposed judgment. The deal addresses 2011–2022 Hyundai and Kia vehicles sold without an engine immobilizer.
An immobilizer is standard anti-theft technology that blocks the engine from starting without the correct key. A bipartisan coalition of 36 attorneys general announced the up-to-$9 million agreement on Dec. 16, 2025.
Official resources:
- Read the official notice from Ny — Use this primary source to verify the official announcement.
- Read the official notice from Ca — Use this primary source to verify the official announcement.
Table of Contents
- Who qualifies for this settlement?
- What payment can you receive?
- How do you file before March 31, 2027?
- Is this the same as the older $145 million case?
Who qualifies for this settlement?
This settlement is narrow. It covers owners and lessees whose vehicle had the anti-theft software installed or had an installation appointment scheduled, then suffered theft or attempted theft on or after April 29, 2025, according to the North Carolina Justice Department summary.
That timing matters most. A theft before the software fix or without an installation appointment does not meet this test. The vehicle must also fall within the 2011–2022 model years at issue.
What payment can you receive?
The $9 million is split evenly. Up to $4.5 million funds consumer claims, while $4.5 million goes to the investigating states as penalties.
Documented restitution is described as up to $4,500 for a total loss and up to $2,250 for a partial loss, according to GeekWire's report on the settlement terms. Payments come from the limited consumer fund, so keep receipts and repair estimates that prove the loss.
How do you file before March 31, 2027?
File online through the official settlement portal or by mail before the deadline. A valid claim needs identifying information, vehicle details, and proof tied to the qualifying theft or attempt.
Preserve police reports, towing invoices, repair bills, and insurance letters now. Owners with a qualifying post-April 2025 theft should gather those records early rather than waiting until the filing window closes.
Is this the same as the older $145 million case?
No. The older federal class action, In re Kia Hyundai Vehicle Theft Litigation No. 8:22-ml-03052, closed to new claims on April 28, 2025.
It is separate from the March 31, 2027 multistate deadline. Do not rely on a filing made in that earlier case. Beyond cash, Hyundai and Kia must equip future U.S. vehicles with immobilizers and offer free zinc-reinforced ignition-cylinder protectors to eligible owners.