Recall Notice: Hyundai and Kia Recall Millions of Vehicles in North America Due to Fire Risk
In a concerning development, Hyundai and Kia are doing a recall on a staggering number of vehicles in Canada and the United States due to a significant safety issue related to the anti-lock braking system. This issue has the potential to lead to vehicle fires, posing a serious risk to both parked and driven vehicles.
The Fire Risk
Documents released by U.S. safety regulators have revealed that the problem lies with the anti-lock brake control module, which can leak fluid and trigger an electrical short circuit. This combination can result in a fire, making it crucial for owners to take immediate action.
The Affected Models
The recall encompasses a wide range of car and SUV models produced between 2010 and 2019. Notable models affected include Hyundai’s Santa Fe SUV and Kia’s Sorrento SUV.
Safety Precautions
In response to this critical issue, both Hyundai and Kia are advising owners to park their vehicles outdoors and away from structures until the necessary repairs have been completed. This precautionary measure is essential in preventing potential fires.
Hyundai’s Recall Details
Hyundai’s recall in Canada impacts approximately 326,942 vehicles. The affected models include:
- 77,571 model year 2012-2015 Hyundai Accent vehicles
- 153,026 model year 2011-2015 Hyundai Elantra vehicles
- 4,403 model year 2013-2015 Hyundai Elantra Coupe vehicles
- 85 model year 2014-2015 Hyundai Equus vehicles
- 7,789 model year 2011-2015 Hyundai Genesis Coupe vehicles
- 8,507 model year 2013-2015 Hyundai Santa Fe vehicles
- 24,795 model year 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport vehicles
- 46,318 model year 2010-2013 Hyundai Tucson vehicles
- 4,448 model year 2010-2012 Hyundai Veracruz vehicles
An additional 1,642,551 vehicles are being recalled in the United States.
Issue:
On certain vehicles, brake fluid could leak into the control module for the antilock brake system (ABS) and cause it to short circuit.
Safety Risk:
A short circuit could create a fire risk, even while the vehicle is parked and turned off.
Corrective Actions:
Hyundai will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to replace the fuse for the ABS module. Hyundai recommends that you should park your vehicle outdoors and away from other vehicles or structures until the recall repairs have been completed.
Kia’s Recall Details
Kia’s recall in Canada affects around 276,225 vehicles, including:
- 2010-2011 Borregos
- 2015-2016 Cadenzas
- 2010-2013 Fortes
- 2010-2013 Forte Koups
- 2015 K900s
- 2010-2015 Optimas
- 2012-2017 Rios
- 2010-2017 Rondos
- 2011-2014 Sorrentos
- 2011-2013 Souls
- 2010 Sportages
In the United States, an additional 1.7 million Kia vehicles are part of the recall.
Issue:
On certain vehicles, the brake hydraulic electronic control unit (HECU) could short circuit.
Safety Risk:
A short circuit could create a fire risk, even while the vehicle is parked and turned off.
Corrective Actions:
Kia will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to replace the fuse(s) for the HECU. Kia recommends that you should park your vehicle outdoors and away from other vehicles or structures until the recall repairs have been completed.
Safety Measures Emphasized
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is taking this matter very seriously and advises owners that, until the recalled vehicles have been repaired, the safest place to park them is outside and away from homes and other structures. It’s important to note that fires can occur whether the vehicle is parked and turned off or while driving.
Repairs and Notification
Dealers will replace the anti-lock brake fuse at no cost to owners. However, owners should be aware that they won’t receive notifications by mail until November. Immediate action is crucial to ensure safety and prevent potential fire hazards.
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