BREAKING: Kia and Hyundai have just announced a critical settlement to provide free repairs for owners of older vehicles affected by rampant car theft incidents linked to the notorious “Kia Boyz.” This urgent measure comes as a multi-state coalition led by New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin confirms a significant agreement aimed at bolstering vehicle security.
The settlement, confirmed earlier today, mandates that both automakers will offer free repairs to vehicles compromised by a major security flaw exploited by thieves, allowing them to start cars without keys. This alarming trend, which gained notoriety on platforms like TikTok, has led to millions in damages and a public outcry for better vehicle security.
As part of the agreement, Kia and Hyundai will supply zinc-reinforced ignition cylinder protectors to the owners or lessees of eligible vehicles. This initiative extends beyond just software updates previously offered and targets older models that were particularly vulnerable to theft.
In a decisive move, the coalition also requires both companies to equip all future vehicles sold in the United States with an industry-standard engine immobilizer. This is a critical step towards enhancing anti-theft technology and preventing further incidents.
Financially, Kia and Hyundai are set to pay up to $9 million in restitution. This includes $4.5 million allocated for consumers whose vehicles were damaged by thieves, alongside another $4.5 million directed to the states involved in the investigation.
“Today’s settlement is a key step in our ongoing efforts to prevent auto thefts—and to hold carmakers accountable for their shameful failure to take appropriate action,” stated Attorney General Platkin.
The term “Kia Boyz” refers to a group of thieves who gained fame for their audacious ability to steal Kia and Hyundai vehicles using nothing more than a USB device. Videos showcasing their exploits circulated widely on social media, prompting many to join in the reckless trend of driving stolen cars, contributing to an alarming spike in thefts.
Despite initial software updates aimed at curbing these thefts, incidents continued to rise, underscoring the need for more robust security measures. As Kia and Hyundai take these recent steps, the focus is now on whether these solutions will effectively deter future thefts.
Moving forward, industry experts and authorities will be closely monitoring the situation to assess the impact of these new protections on theft rates. The urgency of the matter cannot be overstated, as countless vehicle owners are eager for effective solutions to safeguard their investments.
This settlement marks a significant moment in the auto industry as it navigates the fallout from these theft trends. As Kia and Hyundai implement these changes, consumers and law enforcement alike are hopeful that this will lead to a decline in vehicle theft incidents across the nation.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as more details emerge on the implementation of these free repairs and enhanced security measures.
