U.S. states investigating Hyundai, Kia over vehicle fires

A group of U.S. states is probing Hyundai Motor and Kia Motors for possible unfair and deceptive acts associated with reports of hundreds of vehicle fires, Connecticut Attorney General William Tong stated on Monday.

The South Korean automakers have recalled over 2.3 million vehicles since 2015 to address numerous engine fire risks in a range of recalls. In November, Reuters reported that federal prosecutors had started a criminal investigation into Hyundai and Kia to figure out if vehicle recalls associated with engine defects had been conducted properly.

“We are aware of multiple fires associating Connecticut vehicles, including some allegedly already repaired through the recall process. This is a serious matter, and we are moving aggressively and responsibly to uncover the facts and to ensure accountability,” Tong stated.

Hyundai and Kia stated they were working together with the investigation. Hyundai added that it had enhanced its “engine manufacturing” and was reaching out to affected clients.

A spokeswoman for the Connecticut attorney general refused to tell how many states were participating.