Kia and Hyundai Recall 500,000 Vehicles for Fire Hazard
More than 500,000 Kia and Hyundai vehicles have been recalled after it was determined they are at risk of leaking brake fluid that can cause an electrical short, resulting in engine fires.
More Than 20 Engine Fires Reported in Recalled Kia and Hyundai Vehicles
Automakers Hyundai and Kia are recalling over 591,000 vehicles in the U.S. to fix brake fluid leaks associated with its anti-lock brakes. The leaking fluids have been known to cause electrical shorts and engine fires. Kia’s recall will start Oct. 15, while Hyundai’s will start Oct. 23.
Documents from the companies show that Hyundai has received 15 reports of engine fires caused by the leaking fluids while Kia has received 8. No injuries from the fires have been reported.
These recalls are the latest in a series of engine fire problems plaguing the two automakers. In February, Hyundai recalled nearly 430,000 small cars for a similar but unrelated problem. Also, in April of 2019, the National Highway Traffic Safety Commission opened two new investigations into fires involving Hyundai and Kia vehicles after more than 3,100 fires and 103 injuries were reported.
According to NHTSA data, engine failure and fire problems with Hyundais and Kias have affected more than 6 million vehicles since 2015.
Description of the Recalled Hyundai and Kia Models
The recalls cover the following:
- More than 440,000 Kia Optima midsize sedans from 2013 through 2015
- Kia Sorento SUVs from 2014 and 2015
- More than 151,000 Hyundai Santa Fe SUVs from 2013 to 2015
Contact an Experienced Vehicle Defect Attorney
Drivers have enough to worry about while traversing the roadways on a daily basis. When a person gets behind the wheel of a car, there is a reasonable expectation that the car is going to perform in a matter that would not put the operator’s life in jeopardy. Unfortunately there are hundreds of vehicle recalls each year due to manufacturer defects, from the tires to the ignition switches, that can cause catastrophic injuries and in some cases death. If you or a loved one have been injured due to a defective part in a vehicle, contact Thomas J. Henry.
Our experienced defective vehicle lawyers have handled a multitude of injury claims caused by recalled vehicles. We continue to handle cases involving faulty and dangerous GM ignition switches and Takata airbags. Our firm has offices in Corpus Christi, San Antonio, and Austin, serving clients across Texas and nationwide. Call us today for a free legal consultation — our attorneys are available 24/7, nights and weekends.
