Fire Risk: Hyundai and Kia Recall Over Three Million Vehicles

Though EV fires receive a tremendous amount of attention in the news, they are far less common proportionally than gas vehicle fires. Sure, we’ve seen a few massive recalls for EV fires in recent years, including a massive campaign involving every Chevy Bolt and Bolt EUV made between 2017 and 2023, but gas vehicles are still more likely to catch fire. Hyundai and Kia are the latest manufacturers to issue a fire-related recall, this time for millions of gas vehicles with faulty hydraulic electronic control units (HECU) and antilock brake modules.

The affected Kia vehicles’ HECUs can experience an electrical short as they age, which causes excess electrical current, increasing the fire risk. The automaker said the exact cause of the short is unknown but noted that fires could occur when the vehicle is parked or in use. In total, the recall wrapped up more than three million vehicles from both automakers, with around 1.7 million Kias and 1.6 million Hyundais.

Kia’s recalling several models, including:

2010-2019 Borrego

2014-2016 Cadenza

2010-2013 Forte (includes Koup)

2010-2013 Sportage

2015-2018 K900

2011-2015 Optima (2011-2013 Optima Hybrid)

2011-2013 Soul

2012-2017 Rio

2010-2011 Rondo

2011-2014 Sorento

While fire-related, Hyundai’s recall is due to issues with the antilock brake system module. Similar to Kia’s HECU problems, the ABS in some Hyundai models can experience an electrical overcurrent, increasing the fire risk. Recall documentation states that the O-ring material in the ABS can be damaged over time, allowing brake fluid to leak onto electrical components.

The list of Hyundai models involved in the recall includes:

2012-2015 Accent

2012-2015 Azera

2011-2015 Elantra

2011-2015 Genesis Coupe (prior to Genesis becoming a separate brand)

2011-2015 Sonata Hybrid

2012-2015 Veloster

2010-2012 Veracruz

2013 Santa Fe Sport

2014-2015 Equus

2013-2015 Santa Fe

2010-2013 Tucson

Hyundai said it is aware of 21 fires and 22 “thermal incidents” (sounds a lot like a fire) related to the problem. Both automakers noted that owners can continue driving their vehicles but advised that they must be parked outside and away from structures. Kia dealers will replace the HECU unit if required, and Hyundai stores will replace ABS fuses if there is a problem.

This recall highlights the importance of addressing fire risks in gas vehicles, which are still more prevalent than EV fires. While EVs have received significant media attention for their fire incidents, gas vehicles remain at a higher risk. It is crucial for automakers to prioritize safety and promptly address any potential fire hazards in their vehicles.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, with a growing focus on electric vehicles, it is essential to ensure that safety measures are in place for both EVs and traditional gas vehicles. Manufacturers must invest in rigorous testing and quality control processes to identify and rectify any potential fire risks before vehicles reach consumers.

In the case of Hyundai and Kia, the recall demonstrates their commitment to customer safety. By acknowledging the fire-related issues with their vehicles and taking proactive measures to address them, they are prioritizing the well-being of their customers.

Owners of the affected Kia and Hyundai models should take this recall seriously and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturers. It is crucial to park the vehicles outside and away from structures to minimize the risk of fire. By complying with the recall and having the necessary repairs or replacements done, owners can ensure the safety of themselves and others on the road.

In conclusion, the recent recall by Hyundai and Kia for over three million vehicles due to fire risks highlights the ongoing importance of addressing safety concerns in gas vehicles. While EV fires often dominate headlines, gas vehicles still pose a higher risk of catching fire. This recall serves as a reminder for automakers to prioritize safety and take swift action to rectify any potential fire hazards in their vehicles. Owners of the affected models should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and have the necessary repairs or replacements done to ensure their safety on the road.