Auto manufacturers Hyundai and Kia have issued a recall for nearly 92,000 vehicles, advising owners to park them outside due to concerns regarding an electronic controller and oil pump that could potentially lead to fires.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the electronic controller for the Idle Stop & Go oil pump assembly in these vehicles may contain damaged electrical components, resulting in overheating and an increased risk of fires.
Impacted Car Models
The following Kia and Hyundai car models are included in the recall:
- Kia Seltos (2023 and 2024 models)
Free Repairs and Parking Recommendations
Affected vehicle owners can have their cars repaired at a car dealership associated with their vehicle at no cost, as stated by the NHTSA. In the meantime, owners are strongly advised to park their vehicles outside.
Notification Process
The recall notice was released on Thursday, and Hyundai owners will receive notification letters on September 25, while Kia owners will be notified starting September 28.
Reports of Incidents
Kia has received six reports of melting components, but no fires or injuries have been reported. Similarly, Hyundai has confirmed four “thermal incidents” with no injuries, according to the Associated Press.
Previous Settlement and Car Vulnerability
This recent announcement follows a previous $200 million settlement reached by Kia and Hyundai in response to numerous complaints about their vehicles’ vulnerability to theft. Approximately 9 million cars were affected by this settlement, as they lacked anti-theft immobilizers. There had been a notable increase in break-ins, seemingly driven by viral how-to TikTok videos outlining methods to infiltrate these cars.
For more information about the $200 million Hyundai and Kia class-action lawsuit, click here.