Hyundai, Kia Issue Massive US Recall Over Fire Risk: 91,000 Vehicles Affected

Hyundai Motor and Kia announced a recall of more than 91,000 vehicles, citing fire risks associated with faulty oil pump controllers. The Korean automakers urge owners to park affected vehicles outdoors as a safety precaution until repairs are made.

The recall includes models such as the Hyundai 2023-2024 Palisade, Tucson, Sonata, Elantra, and Kona vehicles and the Kia 2023-2024 Seltos, Soul, and Sportage vehicles. Approximately 52,000 Hyundai vehicles and nearly 40,000 Kia vehicles are included in this recall.

According to Korean automakers, the electronic controllers for the Idle Stop & Go oil pump assembly may contain damaged electrical components that can result in overheating of the pump. Owners will be notified of the recall in late September, and dealers will inspect and replace the electric oil pump controller as necessary.

Although no accidents or injuries have been reported, Kia has received six reports of potentially related thermal events, while Hyundai has received four similar reports. Both automakers have assured the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that a suspect part has been eliminated from production since March.

Hyundai has advised its dealers to provide rental vehicles to customers who feel unsafe operating their affected vehicles until a recall fix can be implemented. Furthermore, if owners notice a burning or melting odor, they are encouraged to have the vehicle towed to the nearest Hyundai dealer and not attempt to drive it. In addition to the fire risks, heat damage from the affected oil pump assembly could trigger a short circuit, impacting other vehicle controllers.

The investigation leading to this recall began in December when Hyundai received a report of heat damage to the wire harness/connector of the electric oil pump in a 2023 Hyundai Palisade vehicle. Kia also received a similar melting report in a 2023 Soul in June.

Owners are urged to stay informed and take the necessary steps to ensure their safety and the well-being of their vehicles.

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