Over 600,000 Hyundai and Kia Vehicles Recalled in Canada Amid Fire Safety Concerns

By: Georgia | Last updated: Nov 21, 2023

Hyundai and Kia have recently announced a significant vehicle recall. Over 600,000 vehicles in Canada and millions more in the U.S. are being recalled due to an identified fire risk associated with the anti-lock braking system.

This decision came after safety regulators identified a problem in which the brake control module might leak fluid, potentially causing an electrical short and leading to fires.

Anti-Lock Brake Control Module Concern

Documents released by safety regulators have pointed out a concerning issue. The anti-lock brake control module in some Hyundai and Kia vehicles can leak fluid. 

Advertisement

Source: Getty Images

This leakage has the potential to cause an electrical short. If this happens, it might trigger a fire even if the vehicle is stationary or during operation.

Advertisement

Specific Models Affected

Hyundai has identified multiple models in this recall. This includes the Hyundai Accent, Elantra, Elantra Coupe, Equus, Genesis Coupe, Santa Fe, Santa Fe Sport, Tucson, and Veracruz from various production years. 

Advertisement

Source: Getty Images

Owners of these vehicles should be vigilant and take the recall seriously for safety purposes.

Reported Cases of Fires in the U.S.

There have been 21 reported cases in the U.S. where fires have been directly linked to this defect. Fortunately, as of the latest reports, there have been no documented crashes, injuries, or fatalities due to this issue. 

Advertisement

Source: Getty Images

Hyundai Canada has emphasized this point, assuring the public that safety remains their utmost priority.

Recommendation on Vehicle Parking

Given the potential risk, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has advised that these recalled vehicles should be parked outside, away from homes and other structures. 

Advertisement

Source: Trystan Lothaire/Unsplash

This advisory holds whether the vehicle is turned off or not. This precaution is to mitigate potential fire risks and ensure public safety.

Kia Models Identified for Recall

Kia has also identified several vehicles in this recall, encompassing models like the Borrego, Cadenza, Forte, Forte Koup, K900, Optima, Rio, Rondo, Sorento, Soul, and Sportage from selected years.

Source: Getty Images

Including these, over 276,000 vehicles in Canada are impacted by the recall, with an additional 1.7 million Kias being recalled in the U.S.

Advertisement

Solution Proposed by Dealers

Dealerships have stepped up to resolve this pressing concern. They have committed to replacing the anti-lock brake fuse for affected vehicles at no charge to the owners. 

Source: Getty Images

However, formal notification of this issue and its solution will be sent to vehicle owners by mail, with official communication expected in November.

Advertisement

Other Reported Incidents

Apart from the fire incidents, there have been 22 reported thermal incidents. These include instances of visible smoke, burning sensations, and even melting. 

Source: Junaid Ali/Unsplash

Hyundai and Kia are taking all reported cases seriously, working diligently to address and rectify each concern.

Advertisement

Scope of Recall in the U.S.

In the U.S., the recall extends to an additional 1,642,551 vehicles. The scale of this recall emphasizes the importance of addressing this issue promptly.

Source: Getty Images

Both Hyundai and Kia are working with regulators to ensure that all potential risks are effectively managed and rectified.

Advertisement

Regulators and Manufacturers Prioritize Public Safety

Both the manufacturers and safety regulators have been proactive in their response to this concern. 

Source: Nischal Kanishk/Unsplash

By promptly announcing the recall and issuing advisories, they are putting the safety of the public at the forefront. Every measure taken is with the intention of ensuring the safety of vehicle owners and the public.

Advertisement

Extensive List of Affected Vehicles

Every vehicle model identified in this recall is being addressed with urgency. From the 2012 Hyundai Accent to the 2017 Kia Rio, the scope is wide-ranging. 

Source: Getty Images

Owners of these vehicles should be alert to communications from the manufacturers and act accordingly for safety reasons.

Advertisement

Moving Towards Safety

Both Hyundai and Kia have shown a clear commitment to rectifying this situation promptly. By announcing the recall and setting up mechanisms to address the issue at dealerships, they are taking steps to prioritize safety.

Source: Getty Images

Vehicle owners are encouraged to stay informed and proactive in ensuring their safety and the safety of others.

Advertisement