Chicago Files Lawsuit Against Kia and Hyundai for Neglecting Immobilizer Installation
The City of Chicago has filed a lawsuit against Hyundai and Kia, accusing the automakers of failing to install engine immobilizers in many of their vehicles between 2011 and 2022, leading to a surge in auto thefts. Chicago experienced a 55% increase in reported auto thefts in 2022, with over 8,800 Kia and Hyundai vehicles stolen, representing 41% of the city's reported thefts. The lawsuit alleges that the lack of immobilizers disproportionately affects low-income residents and has put pedestrians, drivers, and bystanders at risk. Several other cities, including New York, have also taken legal action against the automakers. Kia and Hyundai have stated that engine immobilizers are now standard on all their vehicles produced since November 2021, but with many vulnerable vehicles still on the road, the problem persists. The lawsuit seeks an injunction to fix the vehicles, restitution for impacted customers, fines, and other damages.