Kia Sportage recalled over fire hazard

Recall date

November 10, 2016

Source

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

Official notice title

Kia America, Inc. recalls 2008–2009 Kia Sportage

Recall number

16V815000

Brand / firm

Kia

Sold / distributed

Potentially affected: 71,704 units

Why it was recalled

If the HECU short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.

What was recalled

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2008-2009 Kia Sportage vehicles manufactured August 9, 2007, to May 13, 2009. The wire harness cover on the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may be improperly sealed allowing water to get onto the HECU circuit board. If the water is contaminated with salt, such as could occur from melted snow, the wire harness connector pins may corrode and the circuit board may short circuit.

What to do

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the connector pins for corrosion, if no corrosion is found, the connector cover will be replaced. If corrosion is present, the dealer will replace the HECU assembly and the connector cover, free of charge. The recall began on November 28, 2016. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC138.. Follow the official notice for full instructions.