Kia Announces Recall of 463,000 Telluride SUVs Due to Fire Hazard in Front Seats
June 7, 2024 – Kia Motors Corporation has issued a warning to owners of approximately 463,000 Telluride SUVs in the United States, urging them to refrain from parking their vehicles indoors and near structures due to potential fire risks associated with the front seats.
According to recall documents submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), seat control switches on the front power seats of the affected SUVs can become misaligned and stuck upon impact, potentially leading to overheating and fire hazards.
The recall pertains to 2020 through 2024 models of the Kia Telluride, a popular three-row SUV known for its spacious interior and American appeal. Initially designed in California and manufactured in Georgia, the Telluride quickly gained popularity among consumers upon its release, with dealers struggling to meet demand.
The issue came to Kia’s attention in 2022 when a customer reported smoke emanating from beneath the driver’s seat of their Telluride. Subsequent complaints in 2023 and 2024 highlighted similar concerns, with one owner reporting a fire in the driver’s seat while driving. However, Kia confirms that no accidents or injuries have resulted from the problem.
Following an investigation, Kia identified the root cause as potential damage to the power seat switches, leading to motor overheating. As a precautionary measure, the company will commence a recall campaign, beginning in late July, to address the issue.
Recalled vehicle owners will receive notification letters from Kia, instructing them to visit authorized dealerships for free repairs. Service technicians will install reinforcements and upgraded switches to mitigate the risk of seat fires. Concerned owners can also contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542 for assistance.
This recall follows a previous announcement earlier this year, wherein Kia recalled over 400,000 Tellurides due to a separate issue related to the vehicles potentially rolling away while parked.
