In a significant development, Hyundai and Kia, two prominent automobile manufacturers, are recalling a combined total of 3.37 million vehicles in the United States due to a potential fire hazard linked to brake fluid leaks. This recall has prompted the companies to advise owners to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the necessary repairs are completed.
The Fire Risk
The core issue revolves around brake fluid leaks that can lead to an electrical short circuit, posing a serious risk of engine fires. Hyundai has revealed that it has received reports of 21 fires and 21 other thermal incidents dating back to 2017, all related to this particular recall. Similarly, Kia has reported at least 10 confirmed fires and instances of melting due to this issue.
The Affected Vehicles
Kia America’s recall encompasses a broad range of models, affecting approximately 1.73 million vehicles, including the Borrego, Cadenza, Forte, Sportage, K900, Optima, Soul, Rio, Sorento, and Rondo. This recall spans various model years, from 2010 through 2017, as per the filing submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
For Hyundai, the recall covers around 1.64 million vehicles, including the Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, Accent, Azera, Veloster, Santa Fe, Equus, Veracruz, Tucson, Tucson Fuel Cell, and Santa Fe Sport. These vehicles fall under model years ranging from 2011 through 2015.
The Root Cause
Both recalls attribute the fire risk to brake fluid leaks that can affect critical components of the vehicles. In Kia’s case, it’s the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) that may experience an electrical short due to these leaks, potentially leading to engine compartment fires, whether the vehicle is parked or in motion. Meanwhile, Hyundai’s recall is linked to the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module, which may also leak brake fluid internally, causing an electrical short circuit and the associated fire hazard.
The Solution
To address this safety concern, dealers will be tasked with replacing the HECU and ABS fuses as necessary. Hyundai and Kia are expected to notify affected owners of the recalls in November, urging them to take prompt action to ensure their vehicles are repaired to prevent any potential fire-related incidents.
In the meantime, it’s imperative for owners of the affected Hyundai and Kia vehicles to heed the manufacturers’ advice by parking their vehicles outside and away from structures until the necessary repairs are completed. Safety should always be a top priority when it comes to vehicle maintenance, and this recall underscores the importance of taking swift action to address potential risks. Your safety and the safety of others on the road are paramount.
For more information and to stay updated on the recall process, it’s advisable to visit the official websites of Hyundai and Kia or contact your local dealership.
Stay safe on the road, and make sure your vehicle is in optimal condition to enjoy worry-free driving.
Reporter