Millions Of Vehicles From Hyundai And Kia Withdrawn In The US, Here's The Problem

In October 2014, Hyundai reported Elantra had surpassed 10 million units in global sales. (Doc. Hyundai)

JAKARTA - Big problems have hit two manufacturers from South Korea, Hyundai and Kia who were forced to withdraw around 1.6 million and 1.7 million vehicles each in the United States due to the risk of a fire in the engine compartment.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced this recall on Wednesday, September 26.

Reported by Reuters, September 26, this recall involved a number of models and production years, Kia America, for example, had to recall Borrego 2010-2019, Cadenza 2014-2016, Forte 2010-2013, Forte Koup, Sportage, K900 2015-2018, Optima 2011-2015, Optima Hybrid 2011-2013, Soul, Rio 2012-2017, Sorento 2011-2014, and Rondo 2010-20011.

From the NHSTA report, called the Hydrolic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) on all of the Kia vehicles can experience a short circuit of electricity, which can cause a fire in the engine compartment while parking or on the way.

Meanwhile, Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) will recall a number of vehicles including Elantra 2011-2015, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid 2012-2015, Accent 2012-2015, Azara, Veloster, Elantra Coupe 2013-2015, Santa Fe, Equus 2014-2015, Veracruz 2010-2012, 2010-2013 19, Fuel Cell 2015, and Santa Fe Sport 2013.

For Hyundai, as announced by NHTSA, the ABS Module in the vehicle can leak the brake liquid internally and cause an electric short circuit, which can lead to fires in the engine compartment either on parking or on the way.

In the announcement, it was also stated that the dealers would replace the HECU and Easing ABS needed to address the issue. This recall aims to ensure the safety of drivers and passengers using the affected Hyundai and Kia vehicles.

The risk of engine fires is a serious problem that needs to be addressed immediately, and these vehicle manufacturers have taken steps to improve this situation so that vehicle owners can feel safe driving or parking their vehicles.