If you own a Kia Telluride, there’s an important safety alert you need to know about. Recent recalls have been issued due to a potential fire risk linked to the front power seat motor overheating.
This isn’t just a minor issue—it could lead to a fire while your vehicle is parked or even while you’re driving. So, what should you do to keep yourself, your passengers, and your property safe? You’ll find clear steps to check if your Telluride is affected, what Kia is doing to fix the problem, and crucial precautions you should take right now.
Don’t wait—your safety depends on being informed and acting quickly. Keep reading to make sure your Kia Telluride is secure.
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Fire Risk In Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride has gained popularity for its style and comfort. Yet, a serious safety concern has emerged. Some models are at risk of catching fire. This risk led to a recall to protect owners and others. Understanding the fire risk details is crucial for all Kia Telluride drivers.
Cause Of Fire Hazard
The fire risk comes from the front power seat motor. A stuck slide knob can cause this motor to overheat. Overheating may lead to a fire starting inside the vehicle. The problem lies in the seat tilt motor’s design. Faulty parts or wear can trigger this dangerous heat buildup.
Reported Fire Incidents
There have been several reports of fires linked to this issue. Seven incidents are officially noted by safety authorities. One was an under-seat fire, and six had seat motor melting. Fortunately, no injuries or crashes occurred. Still, the threat to safety remains serious and demands attention.
Models Affected
The Kia Telluride fire recall affects certain models at risk of overheating issues. Owners must know if their vehicle is part of the recall. Identifying the right models helps prevent potential fire hazards. Below is a clear list of affected versions and other Kia models with similar risks.
Specific Telluride Versions
The recall targets Kia Telluride SUVs from specific production years. Mainly, 2020 and 2021 models face issues with the front power seat motor. This motor can overheat due to a stuck slide knob, causing fire risks. Kia advises owners to park affected vehicles outside and away from structures. Dealers will repair these vehicles free of charge. Always check your VIN to confirm if your model is included.
Other Kia Models With Fire Risk
Besides the Telluride, some other Kia models share similar fire concerns. These include certain versions of the Sorento and Sportage SUVs. Like the Telluride, they may have problems with seat motors or wiring defects. Kia has issued recalls for these models as well. Owners should verify their vehicle’s status through official recall tools or local dealers. Taking prompt action reduces safety risks on the road.
Recall Details
Kia has issued a recall for certain Telluride models due to safety concerns. The recall covers several issues that could lead to serious risks. These defects may affect the vehicle’s safety and performance. Owners should be aware of the specific problems and the solutions offered.
The recall aims to fix these issues free of charge. Kia dealerships will handle all necessary repairs. Vehicle owners are advised to check if their car is affected.
Faulty Front Power Seat Motor
The front power seat motor may overheat because of a stuck slide knob. This overheating can cause a fire under the seat. Seven incidents of fire or melting have been reported, but no injuries occurred. Kia asks owners to park their vehicles outside and away from structures. Dealers will repair or replace the motor at no cost.
Door Belt Molding Issue
The door belt molding trim may delaminate or fall off. This happens due to weak adhesive used in assembly. Loose molding can create hazards for other drivers on the road. Kia will replace the faulty molding parts free of charge. This fix prevents potential accidents caused by debris.
Driveshaft Engagement Problem
The intermediate shaft and right front driveshaft might not fully engage. This defect can cause the vehicle to roll away while parked. Owners should use the emergency brake as a temporary safety step. Kia dealers will inspect and repair the driveshaft system. This repair ensures the car stays securely in place.
Second-row Airbag Malfunction
The second-row side airbags may fail to deploy during a crash. This problem lowers passenger protection in side impacts. Kia will fix this by repairing or replacing the airbag system. The repair is done at no cost to the vehicle owner. Proper airbag function is vital for safety.
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Safety Precautions
Safety is the top priority for Kia Telluride owners affected by the fire recall. Taking simple precautions helps reduce fire risks. These steps protect you, your passengers, and nearby vehicles. Follow these safety tips carefully while waiting for repairs.
Parking Recommendations
Park your Kia Telluride outside in open spaces. Avoid parking near buildings or other vehicles. This reduces the chance of fire spreading. Choose flat, stable ground to prevent rolling. Keep the vehicle away from dry grass or flammable materials.
Emergency Brake Use
Always engage the emergency brake before exiting your vehicle. This stops the car from rolling unexpectedly. It adds an extra layer of safety, especially if the parking brake is faulty. Check that the brake is fully set every time you park.
Avoiding Fire Hazards
Do not leave your Kia Telluride unattended for long periods. Avoid charging electronic devices inside the vehicle. Keep the interior clear of papers, cloth, or other flammable objects. Report any unusual smells or smoke immediately to Kia service centers.
Repair And Replacement
The Kia Telluride fire recall focuses on fixing a dangerous seat motor issue. Repairs and replacements ensure driver safety and prevent fire risks. Owners must act quickly to get their vehicles checked and fixed by authorized dealers.
Each repair follows strict procedures to address the overheating seat motor. Parts replacement is done carefully with genuine Kia components. Repair costs are covered fully under the recall, removing any financial burden from owners.
Dealer Repair Procedures
Dealers inspect the front power seat motor for overheating risks. They park affected vehicles outside to avoid fire hazards. Technicians replace or repair the seat motor as needed. Safety checks confirm the repair was successful. The process usually takes a few hours and ensures no fire risk remains.
Parts Replacement
Kia uses genuine seat motors to replace the faulty parts. Replacement parts are tested for quality and safety. Dealers remove the old motor and install the new one carefully. The new parts prevent the seat from overheating again. This step is crucial for long-term safety.
Repair Costs And Coverage
Kia covers all costs related to the fire recall repairs. Owners do not pay for parts or labor. The recall applies to all affected Kia Telluride models. Vehicle owners receive notifications about free repairs. This coverage helps maintain safety without extra expense.
How To Check Your Vehicle
Checking your Kia Telluride for fire recall is important for safety. There are simple ways to find out if your vehicle is affected. You can use online tools, contact dealers, or wait for official letters from Kia. Each method helps you confirm if your car needs repair.
Using Nhtsa Recall Tool
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offers an easy online recall checker. Enter your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN on their website. The tool will tell you if your Telluride is part of the fire recall. This method is quick and free.
Contacting Kia Dealers
Call or visit your local Kia dealer to ask about recalls on your Telluride. Dealers have access to updated recall information. They can tell you if your vehicle needs to be fixed and schedule a repair. This option gives you direct help from experts.
Official Recall Notifications
Kia sends official recall letters to owners by mail. These letters explain the issue and what to do next. Check your mailbox regularly for notices about your Telluride. Keeping your address updated with Kia ensures you receive these important alerts.
Owner Actions
Owners of the Kia Telluride affected by the fire recall must act quickly to ensure safety. Taking the right steps helps prevent any fire risks. Staying informed and following instructions is vital. This section explains what owners should do immediately and how to handle repairs and updates.
Immediate Steps To Take
Stop using the vehicle indoors or near buildings. Park the car outside in an open space. Avoid leaving the vehicle unattended for long periods. Check for any unusual smells or smoke from the front seats. If you notice anything unusual, leave the vehicle and call emergency services. Do not try to fix the issue yourself.
Scheduling Repairs
Contact your local Kia dealer as soon as possible. Provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) for recall verification. Ask for an appointment to fix the power seat motor. Repairs are free of charge under the recall program. Plan to leave the car at the dealer until the repair finishes. Follow dealer instructions on how long repairs may take.
Monitoring Recall Updates
Sign up for notifications from Kia or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Check the official recall website regularly for new information. Updates may include new repair methods or additional safety tips. Keep all recall-related documents and communications. Staying informed ensures your Telluride stays safe and reliable.
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Additional Resources
Finding reliable information about the Kia Telluride fire recall helps owners stay safe and informed. Several trusted sources offer updates, support, and news coverage. Use these resources to verify recall details and understand the steps to take. Staying updated can prevent risks and ensure proper repairs.
Nhtsa Website
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website provides official recall information. Owners can enter their vehicle identification number (VIN) to check recall status. The site lists detailed descriptions, safety risks, and repair instructions. It is the primary source for recall alerts and safety notices.
Kia Customer Support
Kia’s customer support offers direct assistance for recall concerns. Owners can contact them by phone or email for personalized help. Kia provides guidance on scheduling repairs at authorized dealerships. Support staff answer questions about recall coverage and repair timelines.
News And Media Coverage
News outlets and automotive websites report on the Kia Telluride fire recall regularly. They share updates, safety tips, and owner experiences. Monitoring reputable news sources helps owners stay aware of recall developments and related safety advice. Video reports and articles provide clear explanations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Tellurides Have Caught Fire?
Seven Kia Telluride incidents involved fire risk: one under-seat fire and six cases of seat motor melting. No injuries occurred.
Which Kia Telluride Is Being Recalled?
The 2020-2022 Kia Telluride models are recalled due to front power seat motor fire risk. Dealers will fix it free.
What Kias Are Being Recalled For Fire?
Kia is recalling Telluride and Sorento models due to overheating front power seat motors. This can cause fires while parked or driving. Owners must park vehicles outside until repairs. Dealers will fix the seat motor and slide knob free of charge.
Check NHTSA for affected vehicles.
Which Kia Model Has A Fire Risk?
The Kia Telluride has a fire risk due to an overheating front power seat motor. Owners should park outside. Kia will repair affected vehicles free of charge.
What Caused The Kia Telluride Fire Recall?
The fire recall is due to the front power seat motor overheating risk.
Conclusion
The Kia Telluride fire recall highlights an important safety concern. Owners should act quickly to avoid risk. Park affected vehicles outside until repairs are done. Dealers offer free fixes to prevent fires. Checking your vehicle’s recall status is simple online or at dealerships.
Staying informed helps protect you and others on the road. Taking prompt action ensures your Telluride stays safe and reliable. Don’t ignore recall notices; safety comes first.
