Hyundai-Kia Engine Fire Recall: US Authorities Conclude Investigation

Hyundai and Kia have resolved the uncertainty surrounding a large-scale recall in the United States. The local transportation authorities have concluded their investigation into the risk of engine fires. However, the authorities’ investigation into the vehicle recall related to brake fluid leakage is not yet concluded.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced on the 7th (local time) that it has concluded its investigation into the risk of engine fires in Hyundai and Kia vehicles. They explained that the rate of reported fires decreased after most of the recalled vehicles underwent repairs. Previously the NHTSA began its investigation in 2019. It intensified its investigation after 161 fires due to engine defects were reported in 2021.

The number of Hyundai and Kia vehicles recalled due to the risk of engine fires is approximately 3 million. To resolve this issue, Hyundai and Kia have carried out eight recalls so far, installing an improved engine control software known as “Knock Sensor Detection Software.” This software detects engine problems before they occur, sends warnings to the driver, and limits engine output.

Hyundai says it will notify all owners of vehicles affected by the engine defect and fire every eight months for the next three years to complete the recall. Kia also plans to send similar notifications to most affected vehicle owners. In addition, both companies extended the engine warranty period on a limited basis. The NHTSA evaluated that “the re-notification measures will help increase the recall completion rate and reduce the frequency of engine fires.”

Hyundai and Kia stated, “We will continue to maintain a cooperative relationship with the NHTSA” and emphasized that “last year, we established the ‘Safety Evaluation and Investigation Research Institute’ (STIL) to create a culture that prioritizes safety and actively identify and resolve potential safety issues.”

STIL is a safety test research institute established by Hyundai, the first OEM company to do so. It is in the “Hyundai-Kia Technology Center” complex in Superior Township, near Detroit, Michigan. $51.4 million has been invested to equip it with professional research facilities for vehicle safety testing and analysis. Notable facilities include a field crash investigation laboratory, a high-voltage battery laboratory, a forensic laboratory, a 500-meter track, and a Vehicle Dynamics Area (VDA).

However, the NHTSA is still investigating the recall of brake fluid leakage in Hyundai and Kia vehicles, which began in November last year. So far, the total number of vehicles Hyundai and Kia have recalled concerning brake fluid leakage since 2016 amounts to 6.4 million. Brake fluid leakage can also lead to engine fires.