*The maker of Hyundai automobiles will pay $145 million to settle class action allegations that some its cars were ridiculously easy to steal from consumers

Emmanuel Akosile | 绿帽献妻

Hyundai is paying settlements to affected car owners after a class action suit claimed that many of its cars were ridiculously easy to steal because of a manufacturing defect.

绿帽献妻 learnt if you own one of the affected Hyundai models, you may be eligible for compensation.

The affected cars were manufactured between 2011 and 2022 without an engine immobiliser鈥攁 type of electronic security technology鈥攖hereby leaving them more vulnerable to theft, agency report said.

Please see the settlement Web site for information on how to file. Have your VIN number ready, report stated.

Affected models are:

Hyundai	Accent	2011 鈥� 2022
Hyundai	Elantra	2011 鈥� 2022
Hyundai	Elantra Coupe	2013 鈥� 2014
Hyundai	Elantra GT	2013 鈥� 2020
Hyundai	Elantra Touring	2011 鈥� 2012
Hyundai	Genesis Coupe	2011-2014
Hyundai	Kona	2018 鈥� 2022
Hyundai	Palisade	2020 鈥� 2021
Hyundai	Santa Fe	2011 鈥� 2022
Hyundai	Santa Fe Sport	2013 鈥� 2018
Hyundai	Santa Fe XL	2019
Hyundai	Sonata	2011 鈥� 2019
Hyundai	Tucson	2011 鈥� 2022
Hyundai	Veloster	2012 鈥� 2017 2019 鈥� 2021
Hyundai	Venue	2020 鈥� 2021
Hyundai	Veracruz	2011 鈥� 2012

Yes, certain Hyundai models produced between 2011 and 2021 were notably vulnerable to theft due to the absence of engine immobilisers鈥攁 security feature that prevents the engine from starting without the correct key.

This vulnerability was widely exploited, following viral social media videos demonstrating how to start these vehicles using simple tools like a screwdriver and a USB cable.

In response to the surge in thefts of the brand models, Hyundai introduced a free anti-theft software upgrade for affected vehicles. This update extends the duration of the alarm sound and requires a key in the ignition switch to start the vehicle, thereby enhancing security, ConsumerAffairs report also said.

Additionally, Hyundai began equipping all vehicles produced from November 2021 onward with engine immobilisers as standard.

Hyundai anti-theft measures

Despite these measures, some insurance companies have been hesitant to insure certain Hyundai models due to their increased theft rates, according to report.

For instance, State Farm and Progressive have limited or ceased offering new policies for specific Hyundai vehicles in certain regions.

Meanwhile, owners of affected Hyundai models are advised to contact their local dealerships to schedule the free software upgrade and consider additional anti-theft measures, such as steering wheel locks, to further protect their vehicles, report said.

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