Kia Niro Hybrid Recalled Again for Fire Risk After Some Repairs Were Not Done Correctly
These vehicles were already recalled in 2018. In some cases, dealerships said they fixed the problem but left faulty parts on the vehicle.
Kia is recalling more than 27,000 Niro hybrids from the 2017 and 2018 model years for the second time because dealerships may not have properly repaired a hybrid powertrain component that could cause a fire if it fails. Owners who already had a recall repair performed in 2018 will need to bring their cars to a Kia dealership for inspection—and potentially another fix.
The automaker started investigating the issue after reports of repaired vehicles catching fire. It found that, in some cases, dealerships had not actually fixed the problem even though they reported they had.
Photo: Kia Photo: Kia
The Details
Vehicles recalled: Over 27,000 Kia Niro Hybrid hatchbacks from the 2017 and 2018 model years.
The problem: Dealerships may not have properly performed the repairs in a 2018 recall. Dealerships were instructed to look for heat damage in a specific hybrid powertrain component located under the rear left passenger seat. If no heat damage was found, dealerships were directed to replace a part called the main relay. If heat damage was found, dealers were supposed to replace a part called the power relay assembly. However, some dealers did not replace the main relay even though they told Kia they had done so.
The fix: Dealerships will inspect and, if necessary, replace the faulty main relays with updated parts from a different supplier.
How to contact the manufacturer: Owners may also contact Kia at 800-333-4542.
NHTSA campaign number: 22V836. Kia’s own number for this recall is SC256. This recall supersedes NHTSA recall number 18V-666.
Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any open recalls that need to be addressed.
If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have any open recalls. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly to see whether your vehicle has had a recall issued.
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