Hyundai and Kia, the South Korean automakers, have issued recalls for nearly 92,000 vehicles due to a defect in the oil pump that could potentially cause fires, according to regulatory filings. The recall is the latest in a series of similar actions taken by the companies this year over concerns of fire risks from defective parts.
The recall involves an electronic controller for an oil pump assembly, known as the “Idle Stop & Go” system, which may contain damaged components from a supplier. These faulty components could cause the pump to shortcircuit and overheat, leading to a risk of fire.
The oil pump in a car is a critical component that circulates engine oil under pressure to the rotating bearings, the sliding pistons, and the camshaft of the engine. This lubrication prevents friction and subsequent wear and tear, allowing the engine to run smoothly and efficiently.
The Hyundai recall covers Palisade vehicles from the 2023 and 2024 model years, Tucson, Sonata, Elantra, and Kona vehicles from the 2023 model year, and Seltos vehicles from the 2023 and 2024 model year. Kia’s recall, on the other hand, covers Soul and Sportage vehicles from the 2023 model year.
Kia reported six instances of melting components caused by overheating, while Hyundai confirmed four “thermal incidents.” However, neither company was aware of any injuries resulting from the issue.
Both Hyundai and Kia have advised customers with affected vehicles to park them outside until the part is fixed. Notifications to owners suspected of having affected vehicles will begin on September 25. Kia will notify owners starting Sept. 28.
Vehicle owners are being recommended to park their vehicles outside until their vehicle has been serviced.
The estimated number of vehicles that could be affected by the defect is 91,773. Of these, 52,008 are Kia vehicles and the remaining 39,765 are Hyundai vehicles.
This recall follows a series of similar actions earlier this year. In March, Hyundai and Kia recalled more than 570,000 vehicles due to reports about defective tow hitch harness modules, which could catch fire following an electrical short.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also issued a recall request for nearly 4 million Kia vehicles in May, after regulators indicated an airbag inflator equipped by the vehicles could explode when deployed, causing metal shrapnel to be shot into the car’s interior.
Neither Hyundai nor Kia immediately responded to a request for comment.
Vehicles Affected:
- 2024 Hyundai Elantra
- 2024 Hyundai Kona
- 2024 Hyundai Sonata
- 2024 Hyundai Tuscan
- 2023 Hyundai Elantra
- 2023 Hyundai Kona
- 2023 Hyundai Seltos
- 2023 Hyundai Sonata
- 2023 Hyundai Tuscan
- 2024 Kia Seltos
- 2023 Kia Seltos
- 2023 Kia Sportage
- 2023 Kia Soul
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Article Last Updated: August 6, 2023.
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Michael Kahn is the publisher of The Weekly Driver, serving as writer, photographer, and content creator. With a keen eye for storytelling and a passion for adventure, he specializes in uncovering the stories and experiences of automobile enthusiasts. Michael’s work is inspired by his love for off-the-beaten-path road trips, global exploration, and the pursuit of exceptional culinary experiences, all captured through the lens of a world traveler and automotive enthusiast.
