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New Mexico Product Liability Lawyer

Settlement Reached in Recent Kia Lawsuit over Engine Fires

When vehicle defects cause serious monetary losses for motorists, the resulting legal cases can be drawn-out and contentious. Automakers should be held liable for the harm they cause, but these large corporations will often fight against liability and compensating consumers whenever possible. In one case that has been ongoing for years, car manufacturers Kia and Hyundai recently proposed a settlement agreement with vehicle owners who purchased vehicles with a dangerous engine defect. The proposed settlement would distribute a total of $760 million to compensate affected vehicle owners.

The settlement stems from defective engines that can cause engine fires. 1.7 million vehicles were already recalled, and millions more might need costly repairs. Other owners traded in their vehicles with lost value or were denied warranty coverage for engine issues. The settlement payments are intended to reimburse owners for these losses.

The settlement is intended for owners of the following vehicles:

  • 2011 through 2019 Kia Sportage
  • 2011 through 2019 Kia Sorento
  • 2011 through 2019 Kia Optima
  • 2011 through 2019 Hyundai Sonata
  • 2014 through 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe
  • 2013 through 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
  • 2014 and 2015 Hyundai Tucson
  • 2018 and 2019 Hyundai Tucson

Not only will the manufacturers issue settlement payments, but they also plan to update the knock sensor detection systems on vehicles, as well as offer free inspections, replacements, or repairs to fix impacted vehicles. Owners will also receive a lifetime warranty for repairs to the engine short block on these models, and this warranty will transfer if the vehicle changes owners. Once the court approves the settlement offer, owners should receive notice of their payment and other benefits.

Losses from Defective Vehicles

Like any other product, cars and trucks can make it onto the market with different types of defects. Motor vehicles are complicated machines with many different systems that work together to make the vehicle safely operate. When certain parts malfunction due to a defect, it can cause costly problems.

Some parts that might be defective include:

  • Airbags
  • Ignition switches
  • Brakes
  • Tires
  • Steering systems
  • Engines
  • Exhaust systems

When a defective part is discovered, owners might need to make expensive repairs to ensure their vehicle is safe. In addition, some malfunctions cause a motorist to lose control, which can result in a crash. When this happens, defects can lead to more extensive and devastating losses, including injuries, medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, or even wrongful death. If you experience any type of losses due to a vehicle defect, the manufacturer should be held responsible.

Contact David C. Chavez Law Firm Now On Your Defective Vehicle Case

The David C. Chavez Law Firm, helps vehicle owners and other motorists who are affected by vehicle defects. Such defects can cause financial losses, as well as physical injuries or even fatalities. Most cases against large manufacturers are challenging, and it is important to have a law firm that can provide effective and aggressive representation. Call 505-865-9696 or contact us online to speak to Attorney David C. Chavez today.

Recognized as 2019 Personally Injury Super Lawyer, Top 10 and Top 100 Trial Lawyer in the U.S.

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