Hyundai and Kia are recalling nearly 3.4 million vehicles in the US due to the risk of engine compartment fires. This latest recall is accompanied by a recommendation for owners to park their vehicles outside. The recall affects multiple car and SUV models from 2010 through 2019, including Hyundai’s Santa Fe SUV and Kia’s Sorento SUV. Documents posted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration state that the anti-lock brake control module can leak fluid, resulting in an electrical short and potential fire when the vehicles are parked or driven.
The automakers advise owners to park their vehicles outdoors and away from structures until repairs are completed. Dealers will replace the anti-lock brake fuse at no cost to owners. Kia plans to send notification letters to owners starting November 14, while Hyundai will begin sending letters on November 21. Hyundai has reported 21 fires in the affected US vehicles, along with 22 “thermal incidents” involving smoke, burning, and melting of parts. Kia has reported 10 fires and melting incidents. Despite these incidents, Hyundai assures owners that the vehicles are safe to drive and that no crashes or injuries related to this issue have been reported. The recall is being conducted to ensure customer safety.
According to the companies, the presence of moisture, dirt, and dissolved metals in the brake fluid can cause an O-ring in the anti-lock brake motor shaft to lose sealing strength over time, resulting in leaks. The installation of a new fuse will limit the operating current of the brake module, preventing further issues, as stated in a company statement. However, Michael Brooks, executive director of the nonprofit Center for Auto Safety, questions why the companies are not fixing the leak itself and why they are waiting so long to notify owners. He believes that the underlying design issue should be addressed rather than just combating the symptoms.
The companies’ statements do not provide reasoning behind the decision not to repair the fluid leaks or the delay in notifying owners via letters. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration explains that automakers have the choice to determine the best solution for fixing a defect. The agency will monitor the effectiveness of the repairs and launch an investigation if necessary.
- Affected Kia models include the 2010 through 2019 Borrego, the 2014 to 2016 Cadenza, the 2010 through 2013 Forte, Forte Koup, and Sportage, the 2015 to 2018 K900, the 2011 to 2015 Optima, the 2011 to 2013 Optima Hybrid and Soul, the 2012 to 2017 Rio, the 2011 to 2014 Sorento, and the 2010 to 2011 Rondo.
- Hyundai models covered by the recall include the 2011 to 2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, and Sonata Hybrid, the 2012 to 2015 Accent, Azera, and Veloster, the 2013 to 2015 Elantra Coupe and Santa Fe, the 2014 to 2015 Equus, the 2010 to 2012 Veracruz, the 2010 to 2013 Tucson, the 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and the 2013 Santa Fe Sport.
Owners can check if their vehicle is affected by visiting here and entering their 17-digit VIN.
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