City of Chicago sues Kia and Hyundai over anti-theft defects

On Thursday, August 24, Mayor Brandon Johnson announced the City of Chicago will file a civil lawsuit against prominent automakers Kia and Hyundai for not implementing industry-standard anti-theft devices in their U.S. vehicles sold between 2011 and 2022. The suit alleges that Kia and Hyundai's omission of key safety features has led to a steep rise in stolen cars, reckless driving, and violent crimes within Chicago.

The complaint, filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County, claims that Kia and Hyundai failed to equip their vehicles with essential engine immobilizers, technology which is a staple for most car manufacturers globally. Despite being aware of this defect and its potential repercussions, both companies continued to promote their cars as having "advanced" safety features.

"Chicago residents, particularly those in the low- to middle-income bracket, face immense setbacks due to these thefts. Many rely on their cars to commute to work and support their families. The negligence by Kia and Hyundai has inadvertently triggered a significant crime wave revolving around automobile theft," expressed Mayor Brandon Johnson.

Kia and Hyundai thefts in Chicago have escalated dramatically in recent months, from around 500 reported thefts in early 2022 to a staggering 8,350 by year's end. Well into 2023, stolen Kia and Hyundai vehicles have made up more than half of all car thefts in the city this year.

In a statement by Corporation Counsel Mary Richardson-Lowry, she highlighted the city's struggle, saying, "The city bears the brunt of these acts, incurring costs from property damages, diverting law enforcement resources, and making efforts to shield the public from potential harm that could have been avoided."

The lawsuit accuses the automakers of violating the city's consumer protection laws, negligence, and instigating public nuisance. Through this legal action, Chicago intends to recover costs related to the thefts, offer restitution to local owners of affected cars, and press the companies to amend vehicle safety failures.

Residents wishing to share their experiences with Kia and Hyundai concerning this lapse and consequential thefts are encouraged to contact the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection.

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