Over 500,000 Hyundai and Kia Vehicles Recalled Due to Fire Risk
Kia and Hyundai recalled over half a million vehicles with a possible fire risk. The tow hitch harnesses can start a fire while being driven or parked. The Korean automakers warned owners not to park their vehicles in the garage or near their homes until the car has been repaired.
Affected Hyundai and Kia Vehicles
The affected vehicles are across models and years. They include:
- 2019 to 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe crossover
- 2021 to 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
- 2022 and 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-in hybrid
- 2022 to 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz pickup
- 2022 to 2023 Kia Carnival minivan
What is the Issue?
These vehicles all have tow hitch harnesses purchased as a dealer accessory or as original equipment. The potential auto fire risk can occur when water accumulates on the circuit board of the hitch harness, which can cause an electrical short, and eventually a fire. Even with the ignitions off, water can still get into the circuit board on the tow hitches and cause a short circuit.
While Kia and Hyundai reported 571,467 affected vehicles combined across models and years, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated only a one percent defect rate. So far, Hyundai has reported one fire and five heat damage accidents with no injuries, while Kia reported no injuries or fires related to the recall.
What to Do If You Own One
If you own any affected vehicles listed above, you are urged to park your car outdoors and away from other vehicles or structures until a repair has been completed. Dealers will remove the fuse and hitch computer module and later install a new fuse and wire extension with an improved waterproof connector.
Letters will be mailed to Hyundai and Kia owners starting May 16, 2023. To check if your vehicle has a recall, go on the NHTSA website and enter your VIN number.
Hyundai recalled over 245,000 Palisade SUVs from model years 2020 to 2022 for a similar problem last year. The NHTSA said this latest recall directly results from monitoring the Palisade recall.
Watch the YouTube video from WGN News below to learn more about the Kia and Hyundai vehicles recall.
The Importance of a Vehicle Recall
The importance of a vehicle recall is to address safety issues or defects that have been identified in the affected vehicles. Recalls are crucial for several reasons:
- Safety: Recalls are necessary to address safety issues that can pose a risk to drivers, passengers, and other road users. By addressing these problems, automakers can prevent accidents and injuries.
- Compliance: Automakers are required by law to recall vehicles that have safety issues or defects. Failing to do so can result in legal consequences and damage the brand’s reputation.
- Reputation: Recalls can affect an automaker’s reputation. Addressing issues promptly and effectively shows that the company is committed to customer safety and can help maintain or improve its reputation.
- Customer satisfaction: Recalls can also improve customer satisfaction by showing that the automaker cares about its customers’ safety and is willing to take the necessary steps to address issues.
Sacramento Personal Injury Attorney
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento personal injury lawyer. If you have been injured in an accident due to a recalled vehicle, it is crucial to take action immediately. Your health and well-being are top priorities, and you deserve justice and compensation for any harm caused by the accident. At this critical time, you need a legal expert who understands the intricacies of auto liability law and has a proven track record of success.
We invite you to call our experienced Sacramento accident lawyers for free, friendly case advice at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400. Our skilled injury attorneys can help you understand your legal rights and options, navigate the complex legal system, and advocate for your best interests.
See how our California personal injury law firm has helped our clients obtain successful Verdicts and Settlements since 1982.
Photo by Duncan Winslow on Unsplash
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