WASHINGTON – Kia said on Saturday it is recalling 295,000 U.S. vehicles for engine fire risks.
The Korean automaker said the recall covers some 2012-2021 model year Sorento, 2012-2021 Forte and Forte Koup, 2011-2021 Optima Hybrid, 2021-2021 Soul, and 2012 Sportage vehicles because an engine compartment fire can happen while driving.
Dealers will inspect the engine compartment for fuel or oil leaks, perform an engine test and make any repairs including engine replacement, as necessary. Kia said it happens to be creating a Knock Sensor Detection System software update.
Last week, Kia and affiliate Hyundai agreed to a record $210 million civil penalty after U.S. auto safety regulators said they failed to recall 1.6 million vehicles for engine issues in due time.
The Korean automakers agreed to consent orders following the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said the automakers inaccurately reported some information to the agency concerning the recalls.
Kia's civil penalty totaled $70 million, including an upfront payment of $27 million, requirements to spend $16 million on specified safety measures, along with a potential $27 million deferred penalty.
The settlement covers recalls in 2021 and 2021 for manufacturing problems that could lead to bearing wear and engine failure.
In the new Kia engine recall, NHTSA opened an investigation in 2021 into non-crash fires in Kia and Hyundai vehicles. The company in July recommended Kia conduct recalls on certain models with a higher fire complaint rate, the automaker said.
Kia said “based on NHTSA's recommendation” it had made the “decision to recall certain Kia vehicles as a preventative measure to mitigate any potential fire risk.”
Hyundai on Friday recalled 129,000 U.S. vehicles because connecting rod bearings may wear prematurely, which over time can lead to engine damage and increase fire risks.
