Nearly 500,000 vehicles are affected by the recalls.
In the late 2010s, Hyundai as well as Kia were subject to recalls for engine compartment fires. This trend is continuing into the 2020s. Two automakers announced that they would recall approximately half a million vehicles and instruct owners to keep affected models away from other cars and structures while they are repaired. Even with the engine off, vehicles could catch on fire.
This recall applies to certain 2014-2016 Kia Sportage crossovers, and 2016-2019 Kia K900 sedans. It also covers 2016-2018 Hyundai San Fe, 2017-2018 Hyundai Sa Fe Sport, 2019 Hyundai XL and 2014-2015 Hyundai Hyundai Tucson sedans. This is a total of 126,747 Kias as well as 357,830 Hyundais. It’s 484,588 vehicles.
An anti-lock brake system problem could lead to a fire in Hyundais. It could also happen with Kia’s Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit, which can cause a short circuit that results in a fire.
This is the latest recall in a series by the company that has attracted increased scrutiny from federal regulators. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched an “engineering assessment” of the two automakers in December. This is a process that examines the company’s recall efforts. The analysis included approximately three million vehicles. In early 2021, Kia also recalled select Kia Sportage models and Cadenza models. This recall was only for 2017-2021 models.
Owners will be notified by both Hyundai and Kia to contact their dealers to arrange the free repair. Kia dealers will replace the HECU circuit boards with a new fuse, while Hyundai’s technicians will inspect the ABS module and install a new fuse. On March 31, Kia will start mailing notification letters. Hyundai’s letters are due to start arriving on April 5. In the meantime, owners affected by this letter should park outside.