Kia is recalling nearly 463,000 2020-2024 Telluride SUVs because the front seats could overheat, posing a fire risk, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.
The automaker is warning people with the 462,869 affected models of SUVs to park them outside until they get their vehicles fixed to reduce fire risk.
The issue lies with the front power seat motor, which could overheat because of a seat control switch that could become jostled out of place if hit hard by something. This could cause a fire risk, as well as an increased risk of injury.
According to CNN, Kia first noticed the problem in 2022 when a customer discovered smoke coming from under the driver’s seat of the Telluride.
Soon, similar instances had been reported in 2023 and 2024, prompting Kia to investigate the situation.
No accidents or injuries were reported in connection with this recall.
Starting July 30, Kia will begin notifying owners about the recall via mail. Those letters will inform owners that they can bring their vehicles to their local dealers for repairs at no cost.
When owners bring their vehicles to their local dealers, technicians will repair the switches and install reinforcements to prevent the seats from burning.
If anyone has any questions or concerns regarding this recall, they can contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia’s number for the recall is SC316.
Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.
Katherine Rodriguez can be reached at krodriguez@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips.
