Hyundai and Kia have announced a major recall of nearly 3.4 million vehicles in the United States due to a fire risk. The recall affects various sedan and SUV models produced between 2010 and 2019. Owners of these vehicles are advised to park them outside as a precautionary measure.

Fire Risk Linked to Anti-Lock Brake Control

According to the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the recall is being initiated because the anti-lock brake control in these vehicles can develop a fluid leak, potentially leading to an electrical short circuit that increases the risk of fires. It is a critical safety concern that Hyundai and Kia are taking seriously.

Models Affected by the Recall

Here are the Hyundai models included in this recall:

Hyundai

• 2012-2015 Accent
• 2012-2015 Azera
• 2011-2015 Elantra
• 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe
• 2014-2015 Equus
• 2011-2015 Genesis Coupe
• 2013-2015 Santa Fe
• 2013 Santa Fe Sport
• 2011-2015 Sonata HEV
• 2010-2013 Tucson
• 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell
• 2012-2015 Veloster
• 2010-2012 Veracruz

And here are the Kia models affected:

Kia

• 2014-2016 Cadenza
• 2011-2013 Forte/Forte Koup
• 2015-2017 K900
• 2010-2015 Optima
• 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid
• 2011-2017 Rio
• 2010 Rondo
• 2011-2014 Sorento
• 2011-2013 Soul
• 2010-2013 Sportage

Safety Measures and Solutions

Hyundai and Kia understand the importance of customer safety and are taking swift action to rectify this potential hazard. By promptly addressing the fire risk in these millions of vehicles, Hyundai and Kia demonstrate their commitment to ensuring the well-being of their valued customers.

Hyundai and Kia Face Fire Risks: Notification Letters Sent to Owners

Reports have emerged of fire incidents in Hyundai and Kia vehicles, with a total of 21 fires and 22 other incidents involving smoke, burning, and melting of parts. The Associated Press states that Kia alone reported 10 fires and melting incidents. In response to these safety concerns, Kia will be sending notification letters to owners starting from November 14th, and Hyundai will follow suit on November 21st.

It is worth noting that this is not the first time the two car manufacturers have recalled vehicles due to fire risks. In fact, back in August, they recalled a total of 92,000 vehicles for similar reasons.

For vehicle owners seeking further information or assistance, they can contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) at 1-888-327-4236 or visit NHTSA.gov.

This recent news adds to a string of challenges faced by Kia and Hyundai. Just a few months ago, the two Korean automakers agreed to a $200 million settlement following numerous complaints about their vehicles being vulnerable to theft. The lack of anti-theft immobilizers resulted in approximately 9 million cars being broken into. This increase in break-ins was partly due to various TikTok videos outlining step-by-step instructions on how to infiltrate and even steal these cars through hacking their "start/stop" engine buttons.