Irvine, CA – June 20, 2024 – Kia (OTCMKTS:KIMTF) is recalling 462,869 2020-2024 Kia Telluride SUVs over an electrical issue that may result in a fire “while parked or driving.”
This defect increases the risk of crash, injury or property damage.
This recall is the latest contribution to the long list of Kia and Hyundai fire-related recalls and comes on the back of the “driver seat [catching] on fire while driving.”
Recall summary
The seats in these SUVs are adjusted by electric motors that only come on when the driver engages the seat slide knob. Due to a supplier error, the knob may jam in the ON position, leaving the motors to run continuously.
Recall risks
A continuously operating electric motor may overheat and burst into flames. The resulting vehicle fire ups the chances of a crash, injury or property damage.
Warning signs
Besides the inability to adjust the seat, the occupant may notice a burning smell or smoke emerging from underneath it.
Safety tips
Before the repair is done, the manufacturer recommends that drivers park outside and away from structures.
Background of the recall
The recall comes on the back of at least six instances of “localized melting of seat tilt motor” and one instance of the driver seat catching fire. No injuries or crashes have been reported.
This recall is the latest edition of the never-ending Kia fire saga which saw it and its sister company Hyundai recall millions of vehicles over the recent years. Both companies are also subject to an ongoing U.S. government investigation, as reported.
Other Kia recalls
Some of these Kia Telluride SUVs may have been affected by an April recall concerning faulty high beams.
The same vehicles were recalled later that month over the risk of rollaway when parked, as reported.
The repair
Dealers will install an improved slide knob and an additional supporting bracket free of charge.
The owners should receive notifications between July 30, 2024, and July 31, 2024.
Is your vehicle a part of this recall?
This Kia seat fire fire recall affects more than 460,00 SUVs. To do a Kia recall check and see if yours is one of them, please use MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.
