Hyundai and Kia Recall 3.4 Million Vehicles: Engine Compartment Fire Risk
In a significant move, Hyundai and Kia have issued a recall for nearly 3.4 million vehicles due to the alarming risk of engine compartment fires. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently disclosed that the anti-lock brake control module in these vehicles may leak fluid, leading to an electrical short circuit. This potentially hazardous situation can result in fires both when the vehicles are parked and during operation.
The Fire Risk and Safety Measures: Hyundai
The primary concern revolves around the anti-lock brake control module, where fluid leakage can trigger an electrical short, subsequently causing a fire. As a precautionary measure, vehicle owners are strongly advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. This crucial step aims to minimize the risk of potential fire damage to surrounding structures.
To rectify this issue, dealers are committed to replacing the ABS fuse in the affected models at no cost to the owners. This proactive step is part of the companies’ commitment to ensuring the safety of their customers and preventing any untoward incidents related to engine compartment fires.
Affected Models and Recall Notification
The scope of the recall spans a range of car and SUV models produced between the 2010 and 2019 model years. Notable mentions include Hyundai’s Santa Fe SUV and Kia’s Sorrento SUV. For affected vehicle owners, Kia has announced that it will initiate the dispatch of notification letters starting from November 14, while Hyundai will commence its notifications on November 21. These letters are a critical means of informing owners about the recall and the necessary steps they should take to address the issue promptly.
Company Statements and Assurance
Hyundai and Kia, in separate statements, have assured vehicle owners that they can continue to operate their vehicles without concern. According to Hyundai, no crashes or injuries have been reported as a result of this issue. However, the recall does impact a substantial number of vehicles, with 1,642,551 in the U.S. and 326,942 in Canada affected.
Kia, in its statement to the Associated Press, acknowledges the risk of an engine compartment fire due to an electrical short. However, the precise cause remains unknown, and the company highlights that there have been no reported injuries related to this issue.
NHTSA’s Timeline and Urgency
The NHTSA specifies that companies typically have 60 days to notify owners of recalled vehicles via official letters. However, in practice, these mailings often occur even sooner, underscoring the urgency of addressing potential safety issues promptly.
In light of the recent recalls, vehicle owners are strongly encouraged to act promptly upon receiving notification letters and coordinate with authorized dealerships to facilitate the necessary repairs.
In conclusion, the recall of 3.4 million vehicles by Hyundai and Kia underscores the companies’ commitment to customer safety. While the risk of an engine compartment fire is a cause for concern, the proactive steps taken by the automakers, including the free replacement of the ABS fuse, demonstrate a dedication to resolving the issue swiftly. Vehicle owners are advised to prioritize their safety by adhering to the precautionary measures outlined in the official recall notifications.