Kia recalls 295,000 U.S. vehicles due to mechanical fire accident

Kia Motors said Saturday it recalls 295,000 U.S. vehicles for engine fire hazards.

The Korean automaker includes the 2012-2013 model year of the Sorrento, the 2012-2015 Forde and Ford Coupe, the 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, the 2014-2015 Soul and the 2012 Sportage vehicles because an engine compartment can catch fire while driving.

Distributors will inspect the engine compartment for fuel or oil leaks, perform an engine test, and make repairs, including replacing the engine as needed. Kia said it is currently developing a software update for the Knock sensor detection system.

Last week, Kia and its affiliate Hyundai Motor agreed to a $ 210 million civil fine, with U.S. auto safety regulators failing to recall 1.6 million vehicles in a timely manner for mechanical problems.
Korean automakers have acknowledged that the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has approved the recall.

Kia’s civil fine was $ 70 million in total, including a $ 27 million down payment, $ 16 million in requirements for specific security measures and a $ 27 million deferred fine.
Production problems leading to wear and mechanical malfunction are being addressed in 2015 and 2017.

In remembrance of the new Kia engine, the NHDSA opened an investigation in 2019 into fire accidents in Kia and Hyundai vehicles. In July the agency recommended recalling Kia behavior with a higher fire complaint rate on some models, the automaker said.

“Based on the recommendation of the NHDSA, Kia has taken the decision to recall some Kia vehicles as a preventive measure to mitigate any fire risk,” he said.

Hyundai recalled 129,000 U.S. vehicles on Friday because the rod bearings may wear out prematurely, which can cause mechanical damage over time and increase fire risks.