DETROIT, USA: In a recent announcement, Hyundai and Kia have recalled nearly 3.4 million vehicles in the United States, urging owners to park these vehicles outside due to the potential risk of engine compartment fires.
The recall encompasses various car and SUV models from the 2010 through 2019 model years, including popular models like Hyundai’s Santa Fe SUV and Kia’s Sorrento SUV.
The recall stems from a flaw in the anti-lock brake control module, which can cause a fluid leak and subsequently result in an electrical short. This electrical malfunction could ignite a fire while the vehicle is either parked or in motion. To address this issue and ensure the safety of their customers, the automakers have advised owners to park their vehicles outdoors and away from structures until the necessary repairs are completed.
Dealerships will replace the anti-lock brake fuse at no cost to the owners. Kia plans to initiate the notification process on November 14, while Hyundai will commence notifications on November 21.
Hyundai has reported 21 fires in the affected vehicles in the U.S., along with 22 “thermal incidents,” including smoke, burning, and melting of parts. Kia, on the other hand, has reported 10 fires and melting incidents. Despite these alarming statistics, Hyundai has assured owners that they can continue to drive the affected vehicles, and no crashes or injuries related to this issue have been reported thus far.
According to the automakers, the root cause of the problem lies in the O-ring of the anti-lock brake motor shaft, which can lose sealing strength over time due to the presence of moisture, dirt, and dissolved metals in the brake fluid, leading to leaks. The newly designed fuse helps limit the operating current of the brake module and addresses the safety concern.
However, Michael Brooks, Executive Director of the nonprofit Center for Auto Safety, has raised valid concerns about the recall. He questions why the companies aren’t fixing the leak issue and why they are waiting so long to notify owners of the problem. The remedy of replacing the fuse does not address the fundamental issue of fluid leakage, potentially posing a safety hazard.
Moreover, Brooks questions why the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is allowing the companies to only replace a fuse and why interim warning letters aren’t being sent to owners immediately, cautioning them about the serious problem at hand.
Affected Kia models include the 2010 through 2019 Borrego, the 2014 to 2016 Cadenza, 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.
On the other hand, 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.
To determine if their vehicle is affected, owners can visit www.nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter their 17-digit vehicle identification number.
Hyundai and Kia have faced fire-related problems since 2015, prompting recalls and investigations. The Center for Auto Safety has been instrumental in advocating for recalls, highlighting the significant number of recalls these automakers have had related to fires and engine issues. NHTSA is actively monitoring the effectiveness of the repairs and reserves the option to initiate further investigations if needed. Owners are encouraged to stay informed and take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety and the safety of their vehicles.
