Hyundai and Kia Recall Over 600,000 Vehicles, Urging Owners to Park Outside to Ensure Safety

Hyundai and Kia Recall Over 600,000 Vehicles Due to Fire Risk

Hyundai and Kia, two major automakers, are recalling over 600,000 vehicles due to a “fire risk” caused by faulty anti-lock brake systems and brake hydraulic electronic control units. The companies are urging drivers to park their cars outside and away from buildings until the necessary repairs can be completed.

The Recall Details

The Hyundai models subject to the safety recall include certain 2010-2015 models of the Accent, Elantra, Santa Fe, Tucson, Veracruz, Genesis, and Equus. In Canada, approximately 326,942 vehicles are affected, while in the U.S., 1.6 million cars are being recalled.

The issue with these Hyundai models stems from the anti-lock brake system, which has the potential to leak brake fluid and cause a short circuit. This electrical short can increase the risk of the engine catching fire while driving or even when the car is parked and turned off. However, Hyundai Canada has stated that there have been no reported crashes, injuries, or fatalities related to this condition in Canada.

In the U.S., Hyundai has reported 21 vehicle fires and 22 incidents of visible smoke, burning, and melting related to the recalled cars.

As for Kia, the vehicles being recalled include certain 2010-2017 models of the Sportage, Optima, Forte, Sorento, Soul, Rio, Cadenza, Rondo, Borrego, and K900. In Canada, approximately 276,225 cars are affected, with 1.7 million vehicles being recalled in the U.S.

The brake hydraulic electronic control unit is the culprit in the Kia models. It can short circuit even when the vehicle is parked and turned off, posing a fire risk. Kia owners are also advised to park their vehicles outdoors and away from other cars or buildings until the necessary repairs can be completed.

Safety Concerns

These recalls raise serious safety concerns for Hyundai and Kia owners. The risk of a vehicle catching fire due to a faulty brake system or control unit is alarming and can potentially put lives at risk. While there have been no reported incidents in Canada, the incidents reported in the U.S. highlight the urgency of addressing this issue.

It is important for Hyundai and Kia owners to take these recalls seriously and follow the recommendations provided by the automakers. Parking the vehicles outside and away from structures can help mitigate the risk of fire until the recall remedy is completed.

Response from Hyundai and Kia

Hyundai and Kia have taken immediate action by issuing the recall and offering free replacement of the faulty brake systems and control units. Owners of affected vehicles will be notified by mid-November and are advised to bring their cars in as soon as possible.

Hyundai has provided a vehicle identification number (VIN) lookup on their website so that customers can check if their vehicle is included in the recall. Kia was not immediately available for comment but is expected to provide similar information for owners to verify if their vehicle needs repairs.

Editorial and Advice

The safety of consumers should be the foremost priority for automakers. Hyundai and Kia have taken a step in the right direction by issuing these recalls, but it is essential for them to ensure effective and efficient repairs to avoid any potential harm to their customers.

Furthermore, it is crucial for car owners to stay informed about recalls and promptly address any safety issues identified by the automakers. Regularly checking their vehicle identification number (VIN) for any recalls is a responsible practice that can help prevent accidents and ensure the wellbeing of both the driver and others on the road.

The government regulatory bodies, such as Transport Canada, also play a crucial role in monitoring and addressing safety concerns. They need to closely scrutinize the safety standards and practices of automakers to ensure the overall safety of vehicles on Canadian roads.

As a final note, it is vital for consumers to take any safety recalls seriously and promptly respond to the instructions provided by the automakers. Vehicle fires are extremely dangerous and can have severe consequences. By taking immediate action and following the recommended precautions, Hyundai and Kia owners can help protect themselves and others from potential harm.