Hyundai, Kia Recall 3 Lakh SUVs Because Of Fire Risk! Customers Advised To Park SUVs With Caution

With the latest recall by Hyundai and Kia they are also issuing a stop-sale order, which halts sales until the issue can be fixed. 

Affected models

Both companies have issued recalls for the 2020-2022 Hyundai Palisade and 2020-2022 Kia Telluride.

Though the recalls are distinct to each automaker the vehicles share several underlying components.

The Korean automakers and part of the same auto group are recalling more than 281,000 vehicles.

Approximately 245,000 Palisades and 36,000 Tellurides are included in these recalls.

The problem

The recall has to do with an accessory tow hitch.

The companies said debris and moisture (contaminants) can accumulate in a circuit board in the tow hitch wiring.

This can cause an electrical short which can lead to a fire.

However, not every vehicle has that equipped.

Fires reported without injuries

So the task now is to determine exactly where all these tow hitches are and in order to do that all vehicles produced for the aforementioned model years will be affected.

Both companies had first received reports of SUV fires originating from the rear end in early 2021 albeit without injuries or crashes.

While there isn’t a solution yet, both Hyundai and Kia are working to determine the source of the environmental contaminants that spurred the recall in the first place.

Temporary fix

They are also recommending that customers park their vehicles away from structures until a fix can be implemented.

As part of interim repair Hyundai said that dealers will inspect the wiring and remove a fuse.

On the other hand Kia doesn’t have an interim repair but it said that a final repair is being developed.

Owners should start receiving recall notifications via first-class mail in October.

Proactive measure

A Hyundai spokesperson said that a remedy is being developed and details will be available once the procedure is finalized.

As extra added protection Hyundai is also planning on removing the fuse to the tow hitch module to address the fire risk while in operation and parked.

A Kia spokesperson said owners should give their dealership a call with any additional questions.