NHTSA moves forward with probe into Hyundai and Kia engine fires

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has stepped up its investigation into engine fires that have affected some Hyundai Motor and Kia Motors vehicles for over six years.

NHTSA said it had started an “engineering analysis” covering about 3 million vehicles to review, among other things, the efficacy of recalls arranged by the two automakers. The agency said that it was aware of 161 fires occurring potentially because of the engine failures.

Engineering analysis is the next step in a process that could result in a recall, although sometimes NHTSA closes such probes without needing any action.

Hyundai and Kia said on Monday they are fully cooperating with NHTSA over the non-collision engine fires.