Kia has issued a recall for a limited number of Sorento PHEV models in the United States due to a potential fire hazard. The issue stems from a critical flaw in the vehicle's design: in a frontal collision, the front subframe can be displaced, potentially pushing the steering rack into a fuel line. This impact could puncture the fuel line, leading to a fuel leak and increasing the risk of a fire.
It's important to note that this recall only affects Sorento PHEV models equipped with a rack-mounted motor-driven power steering system. Vehicles with the column-mounted system are not included.
The affected vehicles were manufactured between April 2nd and October 17th, 2024, totaling 1,385 units. While no accidents, injuries, or fires have been reported related to this defect, the issue was discovered during rigorous crash testing conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the upcoming 2026 model year Sorento.
Kia will be notifying owners of the affected vehicles in early January. It is crucial for owners to schedule a repair appointment with their local Kia dealership as soon as possible. The repair process involves installing an additional protective covering around the fuel line, a relatively straightforward solution that should effectively mitigate the fire risk.
The 2024 Kia Sorento PHEV, available in EX AWD and XS Prestige AWD trims, is a popular choice among SUV buyers. It boasts a powerful hybrid system combining a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 261 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. This allows the SUV to travel up to 50 kilometers on electric power alone.
This recall serves as a reminder of the importance of vehicle safety and the ongoing efforts of automakers to identify and address potential issues. Kia's proactive response demonstrates their commitment to customer safety and ensuring the continued reliability of their vehicles.