Kia, Hyundai $200 Million Car Theft Settlement Rejected by Judge

Kia, Hyundai, and drivers who allege the lack of security features makes some 9 million cars unusually prone to theft must rework a class settlement valued at $200 million.

The proposal, which includes a $145 million fund and a software upgrade meant to address the security deficiencies was rejected Wednesday by Judge James V. Selna of the US District Court for the Central District of California.

Drivers alleged certain 2011–2022 Kia and Hyundai models don’t have an engine immobilizer—an electronic security device that makes it harder to start a vehicle without the appropriate key. Social media posts that ...