Millions of U.S. drivers who owned or leased certain Hyundai and Kia vehicles may be entitled to compensation under a $62.1 million class action settlement. The agreement, reached in federal court, resolves allegations that airbag control units (ACUs) installed in various models were defective and could fail during a crash. The issue stems from ZF‑TRW ACUs, which were vulnerable to electrical overstress and could prevent airbags from deploying properly.
Though Hyundai and Kia have not admitted any wrongdoing, the automakers agreed to settle to avoid prolonged litigation. The case was centralized in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California under multidistrict litigation titled In re: ZF‑TRW Airbag Control Units Products Liability Litigation.
Hyundai and Kia agree to a $62.1 million settlement over defective ZF‑TRW airbag control units. Owners of certain Sonata, Kona, Veloster, Optima, and Sedona models can file claims. Learn more here! 🚘💰 #AirbagSafety https://t.co/KrAfctIKzn
— Top Class Actions (@TopClassActions) July 13, 2025
Table of Contents
Vehicles Covered Under the Settlement
Consumers who owned or leased eligible Hyundai or Kia vehicles as of April 14, 2025, can file a claim. The settlement includes a wide range of popular models.
Hyundai Vehicles:
- 2011–2019 Sonata
- 2011–2019 Sonata Hybrid
- 2018–2023 Kona
- 2022–2023 Kona N
- 2019–2021 Veloster
Kia Vehicles:
- 2010–2013 Forte and Forte Koup
- 2011–2020 Optima
- 2011–2016 Optima Hybrid
- 2011–2012 and 2014 Sedona
Only vehicles equipped with ZF‑TRW airbag modules qualify. Claimants can check eligibility by entering their VIN on the official settlement website.
Settlement Benefits Include Reimbursements and Cash Payments
Eligible vehicle owners and lessees may qualify for several types of financial relief. The settlement distinguishes between out-of-pocket expense reimbursements and fixed residual payments.
| Type of Compensation | Details |
|---|---|
| Recalled Vehicles | Up to $350 in residual payments |
| Unrecalled Vehicles | Up to $150 if it contains defective ACUs |
| Expense Reimbursements | Varies; covers rentals, repairs, lost wages |
Claimants must provide documentation such as receipts or invoices. If records are unavailable, a signed declaration is accepted.
Extended Warranties and Support Services Included
In addition to financial compensation, the settlement includes non-cash benefits aimed at improving long-term vehicle safety and reducing inconvenience for owners.
- 10-Year Warranty: New parts installed through recall repairs will be covered for 10 years from the repair date.
- Inspection Program: Vehicles not yet recalled will be inspected for ACU issues.
- Rental Assistance: Coverage for rental vehicles while recall repairs are performed.
- Outreach Program: Designed to improve recall compliance through direct consumer engagement.
These efforts are designed to ensure maximum participation and to remedy any remaining safety risks among unrepaired vehicles.
Legal Deadlines and Administrative Costs
The total value of the settlement is capped at $62.1 million, covering payments to class members, legal fees, administrative costs, and service awards for lead plaintiffs.
| Legal and Administrative Timeline | Key Dates and Limits |
|---|---|
| Claim Filing Deadline | March 29, 2027 |
| Objection or Exclusion Deadline | August 25, 2025 |
| Final Approval Hearing | September 29, 2025 |
| Attorneys’ Fees Cap | $20,493,033.30 |
| Administration Costs Cap | $5 million |
| Service Awards for Class Reps | Up to $2,500 each |
Payments will be distributed only after court approval and the resolution of any appeals. Vehicle owners can file claims online or by mail, and must provide a VIN, claim ID, or PIN to verify eligibility. For full details, individuals should visit the official settlement website and follow the instructions provided.
