Kia recalls 295,000 vehicles in the US over fire risks

Kia Motors said on Saturday it is recalling 295,000 U.S. vehicles over engine fire risks.

The automaker said the recall concerns some 2012-2013 model year Sorento, 2012-2015 Forte and Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, 2014-2015 Soul, and 2012 Sportage vehicles as an engine compartment fire can take place while driving.

Dealers will inspect the engine compartment for fuel or oil leaks, conduct an engine test and make any repairs including engine replacement, as necessary. Kia said it is presently developing a Knock Sensor Detection System software update.

Last week, Kia and affiliate Hyundai Motor agreed to a record $210 million civil penalty after U.S. auto safety regulators said the automakers failed to recall 1.6 million vehicles over engine issues in a timely fashion.

The automakers agreed to consent orders after the U.S. agency National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said the automakers inaccurately reported some information to the agency about the recalls.

The settlement covers recalls in 2015 and 2017 for manufacturing issues that could result in bearing wear and engine failure.

In the new Kia engine recall, NHTSA started an investigation in 2019 into non-crash fires in Kia and Hyundai vehicles. The agency in July recommended Kia carry out recalls on certain models with a higher fire complaint rate, the automaker said.

Kia said “based on NHTSA’s recommendation” it had made the “decision to recall certain Kia vehicles as a preventative measure to mitigate any potential fire risk”.

Hyundai Friday recalled 129,000 U.S. vehicles as connecting rod bearings may wear prematurely, which over time can result in engine damage and boost fire risks.