Kia recalls Telluride SUVs

Kia America is recalling nearly 463,000 Telluride SUVs from the 2020-2024 model years due to a potential fire hazard. Owners are urged to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the issue is resolved, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The problem originates from the front power seat motor, which may overheat because of a stuck power seat slide knob, potentially causing a fire whether the vehicle is parked or being driven. No injuries, crashes, or fatalities related to this issue have been reported.

To fix the problem, dealers will install a bracket for the power seat switch back covers and replace the seat slide knobs at no cost to owners. Notices informing owners of the affected Tellurides will be mailed starting July 30. Kia will also reimburse owners for any repair expenses already incurred, as detailed in a Safety Recall Report posted online by the NHTSA.

The NHTSA’s chronology of issues with the Telluride front power seats indicates that the Kia North America Safety Office received complaints of smoke and a report of a “driver seat caught on fire while driving.” Although no injuries were reported from that fire, the issue prompted the recall.