KIA has warned over 70,000 of its drivers to park outside and away from structures due to a trailer hitch fire hazard.
The manufacturer’s warning is part of a new recall for 2016-2022 Sorentos, 2021-2022 Sorento Hybrids, 2022-2022 Sorento Plug-In Hybrids, and 2017-2022 Sportages.
Kia says these models risk catching fire if the SUVs have the genuine tow hitch harness feature, according to Consumer Reports.
The recall’s fire hazard can be traced back to a broken circuit board inside the trailer hitch that can short circuit and ignite.
These faulty tow hitches can come pre-installed or installed by a driver after their SUV purchase.
The Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride were recalled for a related tow hitch issue last August.
Hyundai and Kia were previously fined a combined $210million in 2020 after the NHTSA [National Highway Traffic Safety Administration] decided the manufacturers were late on recall orders, according to Consumer Reports.
Kia is currently working on generating a fix for their recalled SUVs’ tow hitch hazard.
The South Korean auto manufacturer said they’re aware of four vehicle fires and 31 localized melting incidents related to their recall.
Localized melting refers to an event where an isolated part of a vehicle melts after burning.
No injuries or crashes have been reported as a result of Kia’s tow hitch hazard.
Drivers receiving this recall notice will benefit from visiting their area’s Kia authorized dealership as soon as possible.
An authorized Kia dealer specializes in fixing your particular model.
Your average corner garage works on a wide range of cars to attract more business and doesn’t specialize in one manufacturer.
Federal law requires car makers to repair recalled vehicles free of charge if the vehicle is 15 years old or less.
You can contact Kia if your dealer refuses to provide free repairs for your car up to 15 years old.
You don’t have to wait for Kia to mail you their most recent recall notice.
Head to the South Korean manufacturer’s recall page and enter your VIN [vehicle identification number] to view your Nissan’s recall status.
Your VIN is a serial code located on the front of your dashboard on your driver’s side.
The easiest way to source your VIN from your dashboard is to look outside your car through your windshield.
You can additionally find your VIN within your driver’s door jamb.
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