More Hyundai and Kia Vehicles Recalled for Trailer Hitch Fire Risk

The problem is due to a defective wiring module in the trailer tow hitch module, which could allow water to leak in and cause a short circuit. If that happens, the module could catch fire. Only vehicles equipped with a genuine Hyundai or Kia trailer tow hitch are included in the recall.

Both automakers say that the affected vehicles should be parked outside and away from structures to avoid the risk of a fire spreading. Over the past 12 years, Hyundai and Kia have sent recall notices for over 7 million cars and SUVs to fix problems that could cause vehicles to catch fire.

Although the Hyundai Motor Company is the largest shareholder in Kia Motors and both automakers share parts, designs, and suppliers, Hyundai and Kia used different suppliers for their trailer hitches, and the repair process is a little different for each automaker. For Hyundai owners, dealerships will first remove a fuse in the trailer hitch as an interim repair, and then install a new fuse and wire extension kit, free of charge. Kia owners will get a new fuse and wire extension kit installed, free of charge.

In 2022, both automakers recalled 350,000 vehicles for a similar issue. Hyundai told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that the vehicles recalled today are equipped with a trailer hitch of a similar design.

Hyundai said it is aware of one fire and five reports of what it calls "thermal damage" limited to the trailer hitch, but no injuries or crashes. Kia says it is not aware of any incidents related to the recall.