Kia recalled 295,000 vehicles caused by a mechanical fire

Detroit – Kia Reminds There are nearly 295,000 vehicles in the United States because the engines can stop or catch fire.

The recollection comes a week after Kia and its affiliate Korean automaker Hyundai were fined by the US government.

The recall includes some 2012 and 2013 Sorrento SUVs, 2012 to 2015 Ford and Ford Coupe cars, and 2011 to 2013 Optima hybrid cars. This includes the 2014 and 2015 Soul SUVs and the 2012 Sportage SUVs.

Kia says in a document released Saturday by the U.S. government that no production defects have been found, but recalls vehicles to mitigate the risk of fire.

Hyundai is reconsidering 130,000 vehicles for potential engine failure

The recall comes after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began investigating the Kia and Hyundai engine fires in 2019. When the investigation began, the company said there were more than 3,100 fires, 103 injuries and owner complaints about one death.

Kia will notify owners from January 27th. Distributors will inspect engines for fuel or oil spills and replace them if necessary. The company is developing a knock sensor software update.

Last week, the NHDSA announced that Kia and Hyundai would have to pay $ 137 million in fines and safety upgrades as they moved too slowly to recall more than 1 million vehicles with failed engines. Recalling several models up to the 2011 model year solves a three-year government investigation into the conduct of the companies involved.

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Kia will have to pay $ 27 million and invest $ 16 million in security performance measures. The NHDS has said another $ 27 million will be deferred until Kia meets security conditions.

Kia has denied the US allegations, but said it wants to avoid a protracted legal battle.

Engine failure and fire issues with Hyundai and Kia have plagued companies for more than five years.