Korean automakers, Hyundai (KS:005380) and Kia (KS:000270) are recalling a combined 3.37 million vehicles in the United States due to fire risks. The automakers say brake fluid leaks can cause a short that could lead to a fire and are asking owners of recalled vehicles to park outside and away from structures until repairs are complete.
Kia’s recall covers 1.73 million Borrego, Cadenza, Forte, Sportage, K900, Optima, Soul Rio, Sorento, and Rondo vehicles from 2010 through 2017. Hyundai is recalling 1.64 million Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, Accent, Azera, Veloster, Santa Fe, Equus, Veracruz, Tucson, Tucson Fuel Cell, and Santa Fe Sport vehicles from model years 2011 through 2015.
According to the automakers and a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) in the Kia vehicles may experience an electrical short as a result of brake fluid leaks, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Similarly, the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module in the Hyundai vehicles may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Dealers will install new fuses for the HECU and ABS systems as needed. Owners can anticipate recall notifications in November.
