Hyundai and Kia Recall Over 3M Vehicles for Fire Risk

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【Summary】Hyundai and Kia are recalling over three million vehicles due to fire risks. The recalls are related to faulty hydraulic electronic control units (HECU) and antilock brake modules. Kia vehicles' HECUs can experience electrical shorts, increasing the fire risk, while Hyundai's ABS can have electrical overcurrent issues. The recall affects various models from both automakers. Owners can continue driving their vehicles but are advised to park them outside and away from structures.

FutureCar Staff Sep 28, 2023 11:17 PM PT

Hyundai and Kia Recall Over 3M Vehicles for Fire Risk

EV fires may receive a lot of attention in the news, but they are actually less common compared to fires in gas vehicles. While there have been some major recalls for EV fires in recent years, gas vehicles are still more prone to catching fire. The latest recall related to fire issues comes from Hyundai and Kia, involving millions of gas vehicles with faulty hydraulic electronic control units (HECU) and antilock brake modules.

Kia vehicles are affected by HECUs that can experience an electrical short as they age, leading to an increased risk of fire. The exact cause of the short is unknown, but fires can occur when the vehicle is parked or in use. In total, the recall covers over three million vehicles from both automakers, with approximately 1.7 million Kias and 1.6 million Hyundais.

The Kia models being recalled include the Borrego (2010-2019), Cadenza (2014-2016), Forte (2010-2013), Sportage (2010-2013), K900 (2015-2018), Optima (2011-2015), Soul (2011-2013), Rio (2012-2017), Rondo (2010-2011), and Sorento (2011-2014).

On the other hand, Hyundai's recall is related to issues with the antilock brake system module. Similar to Kia's HECU problems, the ABS in some Hyundai models can experience an electrical overcurrent, increasing the risk of fire. The recall includes models such as the Accent (2012-2015), Azera (2012-2015), Elantra (2011-2015), Genesis Coupe (2011-2015), Sonata Hybrid (2011-2015), Veloster (2012-2015), Veracruz (2010-2012), Santa Fe Sport (2013), Equus (2014-2015), Santa Fe (2013-2015), and Tucson (2010-2013).

Hyundai has reported 21 fires and 22 "thermal incidents" related to the issue. Both automakers have advised owners to continue driving their vehicles but park them outside and away from structures. Kia dealers will replace the HECU unit if necessary, while Hyundai stores will replace ABS fuses if there is a problem.

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