Hyundai and Kia are issuing a recall for over 600,000 vehicles in Canada and millions more in the United States due to a potential issue with the anti-lock braking system that could lead to fires. According to documents released by U.S. safety authorities, the anti-lock brake control module may leak fluid, triggering an electrical malfunction that can result in fires while the vehicles are either stationary or in operation.
Hyundai has identified 326,942 affected vehicles in Canada, including various models such as the Hyundai Accent, Elantra, Equus, Genesis Coupe, Santa Fe, Santa Fe Sport, Tucson, and Veracruz. Additionally, over 1.6 million vehicles are being recalled in the U.S. due to the same issue. Although there have been 21 fires reported in the U.S. along with 22 other incidents involving visible smoke, burning, and melting, no accidents, injuries, or fatalities related to this problem have been reported in Canada, according to Hyundai Canada.
Kia Canada is recalling 276,225 vehicles, encompassing models like the Borrego, Cadenza, Forte, Forte Koup, K900, Optima, Rio, Rondo, Sorento, Soul, and Sportage. In the U.S., an additional 1.7 million Kias are part of the recall.
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has advised owners to park the affected vehicles outside and away from structures until they are repaired, emphasizing that fires may occur whether the vehicle is parked or in operation. Dealers will replace the anti-lock brake fuse free of charge, with notifications to owners expected to be sent out by mail starting in November.
