Kia Issues Urgent Recall: Park Your Vehicle Outdoors Immediately

Kia has announced a sweeping recall affecting hundreds of thousands of vehicles, warning owners to park outside and away from structures due to a fire risk. The issue stems from a potential electrical short in the car's hydraulic electronic control unit, which can cause a fire even when the engine is off.

This is not a theoretical threat, at least one fire has been reported, though no injuries or crashes have been linked to the defect so far.

The recall covers multiple popular models, including the 2017-2021 Sportage, 2017-2019 Cadenza, and select 2016-2018 K900 sedans. Kia is advising owners to keep these cars parked in open air, not in garages or near homes, until a permanent repair is available. Dealers will replace the fuse box and install a new wiring harness at no cost, but parts are not expected to arrive until later this spring.

In the meantime, owners are urged to take the warning seriously.

For Boca Auto Care customers, this is a good reminder to stay on top of recall notices. If you own one of the affected Kia models, check your VIN on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website or call your local dealer. While the fix is pending, the safest step is to park outside, away from your house, other cars, and anything flammable.

We can also inspect your vehicle for any early signs of electrical issues, though the official repair will need to come from the manufacturer.