Core Points - Hyundai and Kia are overhauling security features in millions of vehicles due to a multistate settlement regarding the lack of industry-standard anti-theft technology [1][3] - The automakers will provide free ignition cylinder protectors, add engine immobilizers to future U.S. vehicles, and pay up to $9 million in restitution [2][12] - Nearly 4 million Hyundai and 3.1 million Kia vehicles in the U.S. are eligible for upgrades, with installation costs potentially exceeding $500 million [2][5] Security Features Overhaul - The settlement requires Hyundai and Kia to provide zinc-reinforced ignition cylinder protectors to current eligible owners [2] - Engine immobilizers, which prevent vehicles from starting without a smart key, will be added to all future U.S. models [2][5] - In 2015, only 26% of U.S. Kia and Hyundai vehicles had immobilizers, compared to 96% for other manufacturers, contributing to a rise in auto thefts [5] Impact of Theft - The absence of immobilizers allowed thieves to easily start vehicles without keys, leading to a significant increase in auto thefts [5][6] - The rise in thefts has resulted in many stolen vehicles being used in crimes and traffic collisions [6] Settlement Details - The multistate settlement involved over 30 states, led by Connecticut, Minnesota, and New Hampshire, with several other states as co-leads [12] - Eligible consumers will receive notices starting in early 2026 and have until March 2027 to install the ignition cylinder protector at a dealership [9]