In 2019, a class-action lawsuit accused Hyundai and Kia of equipping certain vehicles with defective Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines prone to excessive oil consumption. This allegedly caused engine damage, stalling, and even failure. In 2023, a $760 million settlement provided reimbursements, warranty extensions, and design changes for affected vehicles. This article details the lawsuit, settlement terms, eligible vehicles, and claim filing steps.
| Complete Date | Case | Citation | Court | Short Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Hyundai & Kia GDI Engine Oil Consumption | N/A | United States District Courts (various) | Class action lawsuit alleged GDI engines in certain Hyundai & Kia vehicles consumed excessive oil, causing damage and reduced value. |
| 2023 | Hyundai & Kia GDI Engine Oil Consumption Settlement | N/A | United States District Courts (various) | $760 million settlement reached, providing reimbursements for repairs, lost value, and rental expenses, warranty extensions, and design changes for affected vehicles. |
Allegations:
- Defective GDI Engines: The lawsuit claimed certain Hyundai and Kia GDI engines were defectively designed or manufactured, leading to excessive oil consumption.
- Manufacturer Knowledge: The plaintiffs alleged Hyundai and Kia knew about the defect but failed to warn consumers or take action.
- Engine Damage: Excessive oil consumption was claimed to cause engine knocking, stalling, and even failure, leading to repair costs and inconvenience.
- Consumer Damages: The lawsuit argued affected vehicle owners suffered financial losses due to repairs, lost resale value, and inconvenience.
Settlement:
- $760 Million Agreement: In 2023, Hyundai and Kia reached a $760 million settlement with plaintiffs.
- Reimbursements: Consumers will be reimbursed for repair costs, lost resale value, and rental car expenses associated with the oil consumption issue.
- Warranty Extensions: Warranty coverage for certain engine components on affected vehicles will be extended.
- Design & Manufacturing Changes: Hyundai and Kia will implement changes to prevent future oil consumption issues.
Eligible Vehicles:
The following Hyundai and Kia models are eligible for relief under the settlement:
Hyundai:
- 2011-2014 Sonata
- 2011-2014 Elantra
- 2012-2015 Tucson
- 2012-2014 Veloster
Kia:
- 2011-2013 Optima
- 2011-2013 Soul
- 2011-2013 Sportage
Next Steps:
- Claim Notification: Owners of affected vehicles will be notified of their eligibility for relief by the settlement administrator.
- Claim Filing: To receive benefits, eligible consumers must file a claim by July 11, 2024.
Disclaimer:
This information is not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal guidance.
