Hyundai and Kia are recalling approximately 3.4 million vehicles in the U.S. due to the risk of engine compartment fires. The recall covers various car and SUV models from 2010 to 2019. The anti-lock brake control module in these vehicles can leak fluid and cause an electrical short, potentially leading to a fire. As a precautionary measure, the automakers are advising owners to park their vehicles outdoors until repairs are completed.
Hyundai reported 21 fires and 22 “thermal incidents,” while Kia reported 10 fires and melting incidents in the affected vehicles. The companies assure customers that they can continue driving the vehicles, and no crashes or injuries have been reported. However, critics, including Michael Brooks from the Center for Auto Safety, question why the companies are not fixing the underlying design issue causing the leaks and why it will take two months to notify owners. NHTSA is allowing the automakers to replace one fuse to address the problem, but it remains to be seen if this solution effectively resolves the safety concern.
Owners can check if their vehicles are affected by entering their 17-digit vehicle identification number on the NHTSA website. Hyundai and Kia have faced fire-related issues since 2015 and have previously recalled over 9.2 million vehicles for various fire and engine problems. In addition, NHTSA is currently investigating 3 million vehicles made by the automakers between 2011 and 2016, following reports of engine fires. Both Hyundai and Kia have been fined by NHTSA in the past for delays in recalling vehicles prone to engine failures.