Kia is recalling more than 440,000 vehicles in the United States for a second time to fix a problem that could potentially cause engine fires. According to The Associated Press, the automaker is also telling owners to park their vehicles outdoors away from structures, because the fires could erupt even when cars are parked and not in motion.
Recall Details
This recall covers certain Optima sedans from 2013 through 2015 and Sorento SUVs from 2014 and 2015. The same vehicles were recalled last year because the brake fluid could leak into a control computer, causing an electrical short. This can increase the fire risk even when vehicles are parked and the engine is not running. This time, dealers will install a new fuse, inspect and replace the computers if needed. Vehicle owners will begin to get recall notification letters starting July 2.
Documents posted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) say the new fuse has a lower amperage rating, thereby mitigating the potential for a fire. Kia says in the documents that it has received consumer complaints of six fires in Optima vehicles and two in Sorentos involving “isolated melting.” One dealer reported melting that occurred in an Optima that had already been recalled and repaired. According to Kia, no reports of injuries or crashes were linked to this particular recall.
Ongoing Issue with Engine Fires
NHTSA has been investigating engine fires in Kia and Hyundai cars since 2019 after multiple complaints of fires, injuries, and one death. Both automakers were fined in 2020 for failing to recall certain vehicles and for providing inaccurate information on the recalls.
Also, this month, Hyundai recalled 150,000 of its Santa Fe Sport SUVs from 2013 through 2015 model years to fix a faulty part that may cause a fire. Hyundai also asked vehicle owners to park outside until the problem was fixed. In these vehicles, the issue was due to the potential of leaking brake fluid within the ABS module, which could lead to a short circuit and cause a fire in the engine compartment while driving or parked.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to defective vehicles, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced auto defect lawyer who can help you secure maximum compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/kia-recalls-vehicles-2nd-time-owners-park-77759069
