Kia America Recalls More Than 137,000 Vehicles Due to Fire R

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a significant recall impacting over 137,000 Kia vehicles due to a critical engine issue. The recall, announced on February 17, addresses a defect in the piston oil rings of certain Kia models, which could potentially lead to engine failure and increase the risk of fire. This recall underscores the importance of vehicle safety and the need for prompt action to avoid potential hazards.

What’s the Issue?

The root cause of the recall lies in a defect with the piston oil rings, which were reportedly manufactured incorrectly. This defect can result in engine failure, and in the worst-case scenario, it may lead to fires. This poses a serious risk to vehicle occupants, increasing the chances of a crash or injury. The affected vehicles were manufactured between 2021 and 2023, and include specific models of the Kia Seltos and Kia Soul.

Which Kia Models Are Affected?

The recall affects a total of 137,256 vehicles, including the following models and years:

Kia Seltos: 2021–2023
Kia Soul: 2021–2023

If you own one of these vehicles, it is important to take immediate steps to address the issue to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road.

What Should Owners Do?

If you own an affected Kia vehicle, you will need to take action to avoid potential engine failure or fire. Kia dealers will replace the engine free of charge. Additionally, dealers will install piston-ring sensing noise software, which is designed to detect and prevent the issue from escalating further.

The notification letters informing affected owners about the recall are expected to be mailed around April 4. Owners should carefully follow the instructions provided in the letter to ensure their vehicles are repaired promptly.

How to Check If Your Kia Is Affected

To determine whether your vehicle is part of the recall, you have several options:

Contact Kia’s Customer Service: You can reach Kia’s customer service at 1-800-853-1403 and reference the recall number SC336 for more information.
Contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: If you prefer, you can call the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 for assistance.
Visit the NHTSA Website: Check the status of your vehicle online by visiting the NHTSA’s recall website at www.nhtsa.gov. Simply enter your vehicle’s information to see if it is part of the recall.

In addition, you can visit USA TODAY’s recall database to check for any other car and motor vehicle recalls.

Why Is This Recall Important?

Recalls are a critical part of vehicle safety, helping to prevent potential accidents and injuries. This particular recall highlights the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and staying informed about any potential risks to your safety. Mechanical defects, such as the faulty piston oil rings in this case, can sometimes go unnoticed until it’s too late. By addressing recalls promptly, you can avoid future problems, including costly repairs and, more importantly, safety hazards.

Final Thoughts

This Kia recall serves as an important reminder for vehicle owners to stay proactive about safety and to respond promptly to any recall notices they receive. By acting quickly, Kia vehicle owners can ensure their cars are safe to drive and that they are not at risk of engine failure or fire. If your vehicle is affected by this recall, it is essential to take it to a dealer for a free engine replacement and software installation to avoid further issues.

Stay vigilant, check your vehicle’s recall status, and make sure to stay informed about any future recalls. Your safety is paramount.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies