Hyundai, Kia issue recall of 168,000 vehicles in U.S. for fire risks

Hyundai Motor and affiliate Kia Motors stated they will recall about 168,000 U.S. vehicles at risk of fuel leaks, following the recall of them in 2017 for engine fire risks, and will provide software upgrades for 3.7 million vehicles.

A high-pressure fuel pipe may have been harmed or improperly installed as part of an engine replacement during the previous recall, and that installation could boost the possibility of fire, the companies stated.

The Korean automakers stated the software update intends to protect the vehicles from internal damage, and they will also provide new extended warranties for engine issues. The “knock sensor” software finds vibrations indicating the onset of excessive wear on the associating rod bearing.

Kia stated that 20 percent of the associated vehicles have already received the update.

The new recall concerns 68,000 various Kia Optima, Sorento and Sportage vehicles from the 2011 – 2014 model years, while Hyundai stated it affects 100,000 2011-2014 Hyundai Sonata and 2013-2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport vehicles.

Kia stated six fires are connected with the new recall but no reports of injuries, while Hyundai stated it had no reports of fires connected to the new recall.