Safety Alert: Hyundai and Kia Issue Recall for 2023-2024 Models Due to Fire Concerns

Hyundai and Kia are taking safety seriously as they recall almost 92,000 cars in the U.S. due to a potential fire risk. The concern is centered around the electronic controller in the oil pumps, which can overheat and lead to fires. To ensure the safety of their customers, both automakers are urging owners to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the necessary repairs can be made.

The affected Hyundai models include the 2023 Tucson, Sonata, Elantra, Kona, as well as the 2023 and 2024 Palisade cars. For Kia, the recall covers the 2023 Soul and Sportage vehicles, along with the 2023 and 2024 Seltos models.

While there have been a few incidents reported, luckily, no injuries or fires have occurred. Kia experienced six cases of melting components, while Hyundai learned of four similar incidents.

The recall process is set to begin, with Hyundai sending notifications to owners starting on Sept. 25, and Kia reaching out to impacted owners on Sept. 28. If a vehicle has a damaged oil pump, the replacement will be done free-of-charge at the local dealer, as confirmed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

To identify if a car is affected, Kia owners should be on the lookout for various warning lamps lighting up, the vehicle going into “limp home mode,” the engine not turning off, smoke coming from the engine compartment, or the vehicle becoming inoperative. Hyundai advises that potentially affected cars can still be driven, but it’s best to park them outside and away from structures as a precaution.

The recalls are related to damaged electrical components in the Idle Stop & Go oil pump, a system designed to save fuel by automatically shutting down the engine when the car is at a standstill.

It’s worth noting that this is not the first time Hyundai and Kia have taken measures to address safety concerns. Just a few months ago, they recalled a combined total of 571,000 vehicles due to faulty tow hitch harnesses that also posed a fire hazard.

As always, safety remains a top priority for these automakers, and they are taking swift action to ensure their customers’ well-being.