Hyundai and Kia have issued recalls due to spontaneous fire risk in certain vehicles. Hyundai and Kia—who share a corporate parent and manufacture vehicles that share parts, designs, and suppliers—have advised owners of the following vehicles to park their cars outdoors and away from structures even if the vehicle is turned off because of a spontaneous fire risk.
- 2016 – 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe
- 2017 – 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
- 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe XL
- 2014 – 2015 Hyundai Tuscon
- 2014 – 2016 Kia Sportage SUVs
- 2016 – 2018 Kia K900 Sedan
The faulty component is believed to be the same throughout the recalled production range. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECUU), which is part of the anti-lock braking system (ABS), can experience an “internal electrical short circuit,” which can cause engine compartment fires according to documents provided to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Owners are advised of the following potential warning signs, say Kia and Hyundai:
- An illuminated ABS warning light on the dashboard
- A burning or melting smell
- Smoke coming from the engine compartment
Owners will receive notification letters this spring. Dealers will replace the ABS multi-fuse, and inspect and replace the ABS modules, as necessary, free of charge, say the manufacturers.
This is not the first recall for Hyundai and Kia. Both have issued multiple recalls in recent years that include more than 3.5 million vehicles that may be at risk of catching fire for various reasons. Previous recalls related to fire risks included brake fluid leaks, faulty oil pans, fuel leaks, oil leaks, ABS sensor issues, HECU issues, and engine problems.
In 2020, the NHTSA announced civil penalties totaling $210 million for the manufacturers after the agency determined that the automakers did not conduct earlier recalls in a timely manner.
If you’re an owner of these vehicles, take heed of the following in case of a fire. According to Consumer Reports:
- Pull over and shut off the engine.
- Get yourself and your passengers out of the car as quickly as possible and stay back 100 to 150 feet and never got back to the vehicle to retrieve personal property
- Call 911
- Attempt to put the fire out only if you have clear access to the source, have a suitable fire extinguisher, know how to use it correctly, and can maintain a safe distance from the car
- Never open the hood or trunk if you suspect there’s a fire there, as the additional air flowing in could cause the fire to enlarge
- Be aware of your surroundings on the roadway.
If you have suffered an injury due to an auto product defect, you may be entitled to compensation. Abraham Watkins has helped the victims of product liability lawsuits recover damages for their pain, suffering, and loss for decades. If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of an auto product liability defect, find an attorney experienced and proven in handling these claims. Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner is the longest-standing personal injury firm in Texas. Contact us today by Calling 713-222-7211 or toll-free at 1-800-594-4884.