South Korean automakers Hyundai Motor Co. and Kia Corp. are recalling 91,773 vehicles in the US due to a fire hazard. The recall affects certain 2023 and 2024 models of the Hyundai Palisade, Tucson, Sonata, Elantra, and Kona, as well as the Kia Soul, Sportage, and Seltos, Turanews.kz reports.
The recall is being issued because of a potential problem with the electronic oil pump controller system. In some cases, the controller system may overheat and cause a fire. There have been six reports of fires in vehicles affected by the recall, but no injuries have been reported.
The recall will begin at the end of September. Owners of affected vehicles will be notified by mail and instructed to take their vehicles to a Hyundai or Kia dealer for a free inspection and repair. The repair will involve replacing the electronic oil pump controller.
This is the second recall for Hyundai and Kia in recent months. In March, the automakers recalled more than 571,000 vehicles in the US due to the risk of a short circuit caused by problems in the towbar wiring harness.
The recalls come at a time when Hyundai and Kia are enjoying strong sales in the US. In the first half of 2023, Hyundai sales in the US were up 27.3%, while Kia sales were up 35.9%. The automakers’ shares have also outperformed the broader market, with Hyundai shares up 27.3% and Kia shares up 35.9% year-to-date.
The recalls are likely to have a short-term impact on Hyundai and Kia’s sales, but the automakers are confident that they will be able to quickly fix the problem and get the vehicles back on the road.
What to do if you own an affected vehicle:
If you own an affected vehicle, you will be notified by mail by the end of September. You should then take your vehicle to a Hyundai or Kia dealer for a free inspection and repair. The repair will involve replacing the electronic oil pump controller.
In the meantime, you should park your vehicle outside and away from structures. You should also avoid using the vehicle until it has been repaired.
