Irvine, CA – August 13, 2021 – Kia Motors (OTCMKTS:KIMTF) is recalling 21,575 cars with 2.5 liter-turbocharged engines which may develop a fuel leak in the fuel pump system. This may cause a fire, which increases the risk of injury and a crash. Vehicles involved in this recall include:

• 2021 Kia Sorento
• 2021 Kia K5
• 2022 Kia K5

This is the latest in a series of Kia and Hyundai recalls due to fire risk. The component in question is the high pressure pipe (Kia fuel rail) with part number 35305-2S200.

Recall summary  

Vehicles that are part of this recall receive fuel through a so-called direct injection system. This is a popular type of a fuel injection system that delivers gasoline directly into the engine allowing for greater fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

Gasoline is transported to the engine via the fuel pump connected with a series of metal pipes called fuel rails. In affected vehicles, one or more pipes may not have been tightened during the assembly or may be out of shape due to a manufacturing error. In both cases, pressurized fuel may escape and spray on the engine and other nearby components.    

Risks

Fuel that sprays onto hot components in the engine compartment can easily ignite and cause a vehicle fire. This increases the risk of a crash, as flames and smoke may distract drivers and cause them to panic. Another risk is the inability to stop and leave the vehicle in time, which may lead to injury. 

Warning signs

A fuel leak would result in a strong gasoline, smoke and/or melting odor inside the car. In addition, the vehicle may display a malfunction indicator light (MIL) on the dashboard. 

Other Kia and Kia Sorento recalls

This recall is another in a series of ongoing fire-related issues Kia vehicles are experiencing lately, including one caused by a leaking ABS module.

The 2022 Kia Sorento is not subject to any recalls. At the same time, 2014 and 2015 Sorento were recalled last summer due to a brake fluid leak which can lead to a fire, as reported.

The repair

Affected pipes will be checked for fuel leaks and then replaced or simply tightened as necessary.  Owners should have been notified on July 21, 2021.

Is your vehicle a part of this recall?

This Kia Recall includes more than 20,000 Sorento and K5 vehicles. To perform a Kia recall check, please use MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.