Kia is alerting owners of approximately 463,000 Telluride SUVs in the U.S. to keep their vehicles outside and away from structures due to a potential fire hazard in the front seats. The issue stems from a misalignment in the seat control switches of the front power seats, which can lead to the small electric motor overheating if it gets stuck after a significant impact. This affects Telluride models from 2020 to 2024, a popular choice among consumers for its spacious three-row seating.
First brought to Kia's attention in 2022 when a driver reported smoke emanating from beneath the driver's seat, the problem escalated in subsequent years with similar incidents. The most alarming case occurred in 2024 when a driver reported a fire in the driver's seat while on the road. Fortunately, there have been no accidents or injuries caused by this issue, according to the automaker's investigation.
Kia has committed to addressing the problem by sending notifications to affected vehicle owners from late July onwards, inviting them to bring their SUVs to Kia dealerships for free repairs. The solution involves installing reinforcements and enhanced switches to prevent future instances of seat overheating. Owners concerned about their Telluride's eligibility for the recall can reach out to Kia customer service.
Earlier this year, Kia also recalled over 400,000 Tellurides for a separate issue that could result in the vehicles rolling away while in park. This proactive approach underscores Kia's dedication to ensuring the safety and satisfaction of their customers.