Kia Hybrid Fire Recalls on Niro and Niro Plug-ins

Kia America is recalling 2017-2022 Niro and 2018-2022 Niro Plug-in Hybrid vehicles, according to documents released today by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Fluid may leak into the printed circuit board inside the hydraulic clutch actuator, which can result in an engine compartment fire. More than ~121,000 Kia hybrids are affected. Illumination of the HEV warning light is an indicator.

Kia will instruct dealers to inspect the HCA and replace, if necessary. Kia will also install a new HCA fuse with one of a higher capacity to mitigate the potential risk of fire caused by an electrical short circuit. Kia will reimburse owners for repair expenses already incurred.

Recalled Kias

All 2017-2022 model year Niro hybrid vehicles manufactured from November 1, 2016 through June 16, 2022 (104,907). The recall population was determined by a review of vehicle production and supplier records (Schaeffler Automotive Buehl GmbH & Co.). The vehicles subject to this recall were not produced in VIN order. Customers seeking information about their specific vehicle will be referred to Kia’s Customer Care Center or their Kia dealer.

All 2018-2022 model year Niro Plug-in Hybrid vehicles manufactured from September 26, 2017 through April 13, 2022 (16,504). The recall population was determined by a review of vehicle production and supplier records. The vehicles subject to this recall were not produced in VIN order. Customers seeking information about their specific vehicle will be referred to Kia’s Customer Care Center or their Kia dealer.

Kia dealers will inspect and replace the hydraulic clutch actuator as necessary and install a new fuse, free of charge as required by US law. Owner notification letters are not expected to be mailed until 29 September 2023.

Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia’s number for this recall is SC276. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov about NHTSA 23V534.