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Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach announced that Kansas and 34 other states have reached a settlement with Hyundai and Kia over the sale of millions of vehicles that lacked standard anti-theft technology. The missing safety feature contributed to a nationwide rise in car thefts and joyriding, creating ongoing public safety concerns. As part of the settlement, Hyundai and Kia agreed to install engine immobilizer anti-theft systems in all future vehicles sold in the United States. The companies will also provide free zinc-reinforced ignition cylinder protectors to eligible vehicle owners and lessees, including some who previously only qualified for software updates.

In addition, Hyundai and Kia will offer up to $4.5 million in restitution to consumers whose vehicles were damaged by theft and will pay $4.5 million to states to cover investigation costs. Kansas will receive $71,427.88 from the settlement, and nearly 48,000 affected vehicles were sold in the state.

Engine immobilizers prevent vehicles from starting without the correct smart key. Hyundai and Kia did not include this technology in many vehicles and did not act until 2023. Eligible owners will have one year to schedule free installations, and some theft victims may qualify for reimbursement.