Kia Motors America announced it is recalling nearly 300,000 vehicles in the U.S. over an engine fire risk. While the company has yet to determine the cause behind the potential fires, the firm is ready to have vehicles inspected and repaired promptly in order to keep drivers safe.
In a report published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), regulators explained that the 2011 through 2013 Optima Hybrid, the 2012 Sportage, the 2012 through 2013 Sorento, the 2012 through 2015 Forte and Forte Koup, and the 2014 and 2015 Soul with the 2.4-liter Theta II engine, as well as the 2014 and 2015 Forte, Forte Koup, and Soul with the 2.0-liter Nu engine can experience engine-compartment fires. While neither regulators nor Kia officials were able to identify the equipment issue that can cause such fires, Kia is preparing to inspect and repair all impacted vehicles for free, even if replacement parts are needed.
Until all vehicles are inspected, however, there are still risks that car owners should be aware of.
In its report, NHTSA urged drivers to avoid fires by paying attention to any engine noises, fuel or burning smells, oil leaks, illumination of check-engine or low-oil lights, or smoke.
In late January 2021, Kia will notify impacted vehicle owners via mail. If you own one of the recalled Kia models, you will be asked to schedule a visit to a dealer where the engine compartments will be inspected. If repairs or replacements are necessary, dealers will get the problems addressed for free. Additionally, the firm will offer a 15-year or 150,000-mile warranty coverage for engine repairs caused by potential “connecting-rod bearing damage.”
Owners who have spent money on any repair caused by this issue will also be reimbursed.
Car Owners: Get Your Cars Fixed Promptly To Avoid Accidents
Responding to recall campaigns when they expose you to serious safety issues is essential. But while car owners have a responsibility to have their cars fixed once they become aware of the issue, many automakers act irresponsibly by ignoring equipment failures.
In many cases, recalls are only launched once accidents happen and people are injured.
We are glad that this isn’t the case with Kia and hope that all car owners impacted by this recall are heeding the manufacturer’s instructions.
For more on this recall, follow this link.
