In September, Hyundai and Kia issued a recall of 3.4 million vehicles in the United States due to a fire risk, advising owners to park them outdoors away from buildings. The recall was prompted by brake fluid leaks causing electrical shorts and fires in the antilock braking systems. Despite the warning, most affected vehicles remain unrepaired, with fixes not expected until June or later.
The delays are attributed to the large number of vehicles involved and the challenge of obtaining necessary parts. The companies have acknowledged the urgency of the situation and advised owners to watch for warning lights or burning smells. Safety advocates express concern over the extended repair timeline, noting that fires could spread to garages or homes.
Hyundai and Kia have reported 56 vehicle fires and thermal incidents related to the defect but no injuries or deaths. The recall affects popular models like Hyundai's Santa Fe and Elantra and Kia's Sportage and Forte from 2010 to 2017. Owners are urged to park outside and away from other vehicles to minimize risks.
While the companies assure that the vehicles are safe to drive, critics question the effectiveness of the proposed fix involving new fuses. Some owners have filed complaints about the slow repair process, with concerns about driving the vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is monitoring the situation and working with the automakers to ensure safety.
Hyundai and Kia are working to expedite the remedy by obtaining the required fuses and addressing any brake fluid leaks found during inspections. Owners are advised to look out for warning signs and contact dealers for repairs. The companies have faced previous recalls related to engine fires, with a total of 13 million vehicles recalled since 2010.
Despite ongoing concerns, Hyundai and Kia are committed to addressing the issue and ensuring the safety of their customers. The companies are collaborating with suppliers to accelerate production of the necessary parts and expedite the repair process for affected vehicles.
