Hyundai, Kia Recall SUVs for Faulty Tow Hitch System

Hyundai Motors America is recalling an estimated 245,030 2020-2022 Hyundai Palisade SUVs, and Kia America, Inc. is recalling approximately 36,417 2020-2022 Kia Telluride vehicles for a fire risk.

The manufacturers are advising the owners of these models to park their cars outside and away from structures.

Additionally, a “stop sale” is being issued for affected unsold vehicles at dealers and vehicle processing centers.

The fire risk while parked or driving is due to a trailer hitch issue, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's website. Specifically, debris and moisture accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.

In the case of the Hyundai Palisade, the automaker is offering an interim repair whereby dealers will inspect the tow hitch module and remove the fuse, as necessary, at no cost to owners. The final remedy is currently under development. 

Owner notification letters will be mailed Oct. 17. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at (855) 371-9460. Hyundai's reference number for this recall is 235.

In the case of the Kia Telluride, a remedy is currently under development. Owner notification letters will be mailed Oct. 14. Owners can reach Kia customer service at (800) 333-4542. Kia's reference number for this recall is SC247.

Originally posted on Automotive Fleet