Kia is joining its affiliate Hyundai in initiating a recall of thousands of SUVs and minivans in the U.S. because water can get into a brake computer, result in an electrical short and possibly a fire.
The Kia recall covers almost 229,000 Sedona minivans from the 2006 through 2010 model years. The recall also cover Sorento SUVs from 2007 through 2009.
Kia is informing owners to park their vehicles outside and not close to the structures and other vehicles until the problem can be solved.
The company states in documents posted Thursday by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that moisture can get inside the antilock brake control computer and cause an electrical short and possible fires. Kia is aware of seven fires, but no injuries. The problem can occur even if the engine is off.
The recall is another in a range of issues that the South Korean automakers have had with engine fires during the last few years. Past problems have resulted in investigations by the U.S. road safety agency.
Dealers will install a relay in the main electrical junction box to halt power from going to the brake computer when the engine is off. The recall is expected to begin April 10.
Engine failure and fire issues with Hyundais and Kias have impacted over 6 million vehicles since 2015, according to NHTSA. Until now, Hyundai and Kia have recalled about 2.4 million vehicles to resolve the problems that can cause fires and engine failures.
