Kia has recalled more than 100,000 vehicles that could potentially catch fire even when turned off.
The company has recalled 10 models made between 2009 and 2014, including the Soul, Sorrento, Rio, Sportage and Optima.
The problem is caused by a malfunction in the hydraulic electronic control unit (HECU). If moisture gets into the HECU, it can cause an electrical short circuit. This unit may still be active even when the vehicle is turned off.
“If an electrical short occurs, it could result in a fire in the engine compartment when the key is turned off and the vehicle is parked,” the recall notice said.
Kia recommends that owners avoid parking their vehicles near flammable materials or in enclosed areas such as garages until the problem is resolved.
Kia is contacting all known owners of affected vehicles by post to notify them of the recall.
Owners of affected vehicles should immediately contact their favorite Kia dealer to schedule an appointment to resolve the issue.
Pictured: a 2014 Kia Sorento
COMPLETE LIST OF REVOCED KIA CARS
AM Soul 2010-2013
XM Sorrento 2010-2014
TD Cerato 2009-2013
SL Sportage 2009-2013
TF Optima 2010-2015
UB Rio 2011-2016
SLe Sportage 2013-2014
VN Carens 2009-2012
RP Rondo 2012-2018
KM Sportage 2009