Automakers Hyundai and Kia have each announced new safety recalls over certain vehicles at increased risk of catching fire. The affected vehicles share a faulty component, known as the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), which is part of the anti-lock braking system (ABS). Although the automakers have not yet identified the exact source of these fires, they suspect that this component may play a role. Here’s what Hyundai and Kia customers should know about this latest auto safety recall.
The Latest Fire-Risk Safety Issue
This new safety recall follows several other recalls issued in recent years. In total, more than 3.5 million vehicles have been recalled over the increased risk of catching fire for various reasons. For instance, other recalls have focused on brake fluid leaks, defective oil pans, fuel and oil leaks, and engine issues. The new recall targets a defective HECU component; so far, Hyundai is aware of eight fires related to this issue, while Kia acknowledges that three vehicles have caught fire due to this defect. Fortunately, no injuries and crashes have been linked to these latest recalls.
Makes and Models Impacted by the Safety Recall
This latest fire-related safety recall affects more than 483,000 vehicles. Recalled vehicles include the following: 2016-2018 Hyundai Santa Fe SUVs manufactured between November 2, 2015, and March 12, 2018; 2017-2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport SUVs manufactured between December 15, 2015, and April 20, 2018; 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe XL SUVs manufactured between May 31, 2018, and November 28, 2018; 2014-2015 Hyundai Tucson SUVs manufactured between August 10, 2013, and May 15, 2015; 2014-2016 Kia Sportage SUVs manufactured between September 30, 2013, and November 16, 2015; and 2016-2018 Kia K900 sedans manufactured between April 21, 2015, and November 6, 2017.
Next Steps for Hyundai and Kia Customers
According to the manufacturers, Hyundai and Kia will begin notifying affected customers about this recall in March. Once you’ve been notified of the recall, you can bring your vehicle to the dealership for the installation of new fuses in the ABS modules, free of charge. This repair aims to reduce the risk of fire. For now, familiarize yourself with vehicle fire warning signs and, should they arise, pull your vehicle over as quickly as possible and shut off the engine to stop the flow of fuel.
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