Skip to content

Kia America controversies

Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.

Back to profile2 entries

  1. 2020

    Kia recalls vehicles over ABS module short-circuit risk

    Recall announced

    Kia Motors America recalled certain 2006–2010 Sedona and 2007–2009 Sorento vehicles because moisture may enter the ABS module and cause an electrical short that may lead to an engine-compartment fire. The recall affected 228,829 vehicles. Kia said it would notify owners, and dealers would install a relay free of charge.

    Kia Motors America is recalling certain 2006–2010 Sedona and 2007–2009 Sorento vehicles because moisture may enter the ABS module and cause an electrical short that may lead to an engine-compartment fire. The recall affects 228,829 vehicles; Kia said it would notify owners and dealers would install a relay free of charge.

    Company response

    • Remediation — Kia Motors America

      Kia will notify owners, and dealers will install a relay in the main junction box to prevent power from being directed to the HECU when the vehicle’s ignition switch is turned off, free of charge.

    Source excerpt

    • Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2006-2010 Sedona and 2007-2009 Sorento vehicles. Moisture may enter the Anti-lock Brake (ABS) Module and result in an electrical short.
    • Potential Number of Units Affected: 228,829
    • An electrical short within the ABS Module may cause an engine compartment fire, even when the vehicle is turned off, increasing the risk of an injury.
  2. 2020

    Kia America recalls 294,756 vehicles over possible engine-compartment fires

    Recall announced

    Kia Motors America issued a recall covering 294,756 vehicles from the 2011–2015 model years because an engine-compartment fire can occur while driving. According to the announcement, Kia said it would notify owners and arrange inspections and necessary repairs, and was developing a software update. The recall was reported on December 14, 2020.

    Kia Motors America is recalling certain 2011–2015 model-year vehicles because an engine-compartment fire can occur while driving. The recall covers 294,756 vehicles. Kia said it would notify owners and arrange inspections and necessary repairs, and was developing a software update.

    Company response

    • Remediation — Kia Motors America

      Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine compartment for fuel and/or engine oil leaks, perform an engine test and make any repairs, including engine replacement, as necessary, free of charge.
    • Remediation — Kia Motors America

      In addition, Kia is currently developing a Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software update, which when available, will be performed by dealers free of charge.

    Source excerpt

    • Potential Number of Units Affected: 294,756
    • Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2013 Sorento, 2012-2015 Forte and Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, 2014-2015 Soul, and 2012 Sportage vehicles. An engine compartment fire can occur while driving.