Kia Issues Second Telluride Recall for Fire Risk - Here’s What’s Different This Time

Kia is recalling 462,869 Telluride SUVs for a fire hazard tied to the power seat motors. It’s the second time the automaker has tackled the same issue, covering the same 2020 through 2024 models it recalled in 2024. Back then, the problem stemmed from seat switch covers that could pop loose after a bump or impact, misaligning the motor and causing it to run nonstop.

That could lead to overheating, even with the car parked.

The original fix involved swapping the seat slide knob and adding a reinforcing bracket to the switch back cover. But according to the new recall, that repair may not have been done correctly on some vehicles. So the same SUVs are heading back to dealerships. This time, instead of another mechanical patch, Kia dealers will install an electronic fuse in the seat motor circuit.

If the motor draws too much current for too long, say, when a seat hits its limit, the fuse will cut power, preventing heat buildup and potential fires.

Owners will get recall notices between August 13 and 19, 2026, but you can check your VIN on the NHTSA website starting July 17. Until then, Kia recommends parking outside, away from other cars and buildings. The good news: only about 1% of recalled vehicles are believed to have the defect.

So far, there have been 11 reports of melted motors, seven fires, and no injuries. While you shouldn’t ignore the notice, odds are your Telluride won’t become a barbecue before the fix.