Kia recalls more than 12,000 Sportage SUVs

Kia Australia is recalling a total of 12,581 examples of its Sportage SUV due to a manufacturing defect that may cause the hydraulic electronic control unit (HECU) to short circuit and potentially cause an engine compartment fire.

This recall affects 531 examples of the KM-generation Sportage produced from 2007 to 2009, as well as 12,050 examples of the SL-generation Sportage produced from 2014 to 2015.

“Due to a manufacturing defect, the hydraulic electronic control unit (HECU), may short circuit in the event of the components being exposed to moisture,” said the company in its recall notice.

“This could result in an engine compartment fire even when the vehicle is switched off.”

• A total of 12,581 vehicles are affected
• The VIN lists are attached here and here
• The original recall notices are attached here and here

If you own an affected vehicle, you’ll need to contact your nearest Kia dealer to arrange an inspection and repair the vehicle, free of charge.

Kia Australia recommends that until the affected vehicle is repaired you shouldn’t park near any flammable structures or in an enclosed area, like a garage.

If you have any further questions, you can call Kia Australia Customer Service on 131 542.

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