Hyundai and Kia have told owners of 92,000 cars in the U.S. that they should park their vehicles outside because the electronic controller inside an oil pump could overheat and start fires.
The affiliated Korean automakers recalled the vehicles and told owners to park their cars away from buildings until they are repaired.
The recalls cover certain 2023 and 2024 Hyundai Palisades, as well as some 2023 Tucson, Sonata, Elantra, and Kona vehicles. Affected Kias include the 2023 Soul and Sportage as well as some 2023 and 2024 Seltos vehicles.
In documents posted by U.S. regulators on Thursday, the companies claim that the supplier may have damaged a capacitor in the oil-pump assembly for the transmission during production. This can lead to a short circuit and an increased risk of fire.
Kia has confirmed six incidents of components melting, but there have been no reports of fires or injuries. Hyundai confirmed they have seen four “thermal incidents”, but no injuries.
Dealers will check and replace the oil-pump controller if needed. Hyundai owners will receive a letter from the company on September 25. Kia owners will be notified starting on Sept. 28.