Hyundai and Kia Recall 485,000 Cars: Park Outside Due to Vehicle Fire Risk
Safety regulators are urging people who have one of the vehicles affected by the recall to park vehicles outside.
On February 8, Hyundai and Kia, automakers of family-friendly vehicles, announced a recall of nearly 485,000 vehicles in the U.S. If you’re wondering how to know which models and years of both vehicles have been impacted, what to do if your car is part of the recall, and what to watch for before getting it serviced, here’s everything you need to know.
Why are Hyundai and Kia vehicles being recalled?
This isn’t the first recall to come from the two Korean automakers. This recall is linked to fire and engine failure problems. Both Kia and Hyundai share the same suppliers and parts, which is why both brands are included in the recall. In the past years, both car manufacturers have had to recall vehicles for fire risks.
The recall is coming after many reports of cars catching fire, even while they’re turned off. The recalled vehicles, per Consumer Reports, all use the same Hydraulic Electric Control Unit (HECU) “that’s part of the anti-lock braking system.” The cause of the fires has not yet been determined.
Still, right now there’s a risk of fire while cars are being driven, and while they’re parked. So far there have been 11 reports of fires in the U.S. but, so far, no injuries.
What Hyundai and Kia Models and Years Were Recalled?
The affected vehicles in this recall include Kia Sportage SUVs from 2014 through 2016 and the K900 sedan from 2016 through 2018.
The Hyundai vehicles included in the recall include Santa Fe SUVs from 2016 through 2018, Santa Fe Sports from 2017 and 2018, the 2014 and 2015 Tucson SUVs, and the 2019 Santa Fe XL.
There are some warning signs that drivers may see or smell hinting that their automobile could be included in the recall. The antilock brake warning light may come on, smoke might be seen coming from the engine compartment, or drivers could smell something melting or burning.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says owners of the Kia and Hyundai models included in the recall should visit the NHTSA website and enter the 17-digit vehicle identification number to check if their vehicle is included in the recall.
Here’s How to Get Your Hyundai or Kia Serviced If It’s Been Recalled
Safety regulators are urging people who have one of the vehicles affected by the recall to park vehicles outside and away from homes, businesses, and other structures until repairs are made to the faulty parts. The cars can be brought to a dealer where the fuse will be replaced. The control modules will also be inspected and replaced if needed.
In addition, keep an eye out for mail notifications related to the recall. Kia will mail letters to owners starting on March 31, and Hyundai will send its letters starting April 5.
