City of Lexington sues KIA and Hyundai over anti-theft technology

The city of Lexington has filed a lawsuit against automakers Hyundai and KIA. Officials charge the companies with creating a public safety nuisance.

Mayor Linda Gorton said Lexington is one of many cities nationwide that has sued the two car manufacturers because their vehicles lack anti-theft technology.

A release from the Mayor's office says Hyundais and KIAs made up roughly 40% of vehicles stolen this past winter and spring in Lexington. In December 2023, Lexington recorded more thefts of Hyundais and KIAs than all other car makes combined.

Engine immobilizers have been the industry standard for decades to prevent vehicle theft. The Mayor’s office says Hyundai and Kia have chosen to be outliers in the U.S. market by not equipping the majority of their vehicles in this country with them.

The suit was filed in the Central District of California, where litigation against Hyundai and KIA for vehicle thefts has been centralized.

WEKU has reached out to both the KIA Corporation and Hyundai USA for comment.

** WEKU is working hard to be a leading source for public service, and fact-based journalism. Monthly supporters are the top funding source for this growing nonprofit news organization. Please join others in your community who support WEKU by making your donation.