Toronto, Ontario — Korean automakers Hyundai and Kia are recalling more than 280,000 Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride models due to potential wiring defects that could pose a fire hazard.
As it stands, 245,000 Hyundai Palisades and 36,000 Kia Tellurides in North America, from the model years between 2020 and 2022, are affected by the recall.
The recall in question comes after 25 fire/melting incidents related to faulty wiring. The hazards occur when moisture and debris accumulate in the tow hitch wiring circuit board. This can lead to an electrical short within the vehicles, creating the potential for a fire or other melting hazards. This recall relates specifically to a tow hitch harness accessory fitted for models sold in Canada between May 28, 2019 and Aug. 15, 2022.
Hyundai and Kia are suggesting that the owners of these particular vehicles park their cars outdoors and away from buildings.
The number of cars recalled in Canada is approximately 22,345, with three incidents of fire and eight incidents of melting having been reported.
The issue was first detected in October 2021 after a Kia Canada incident report relating to a fire was submitted to the Kia North America Safety office.
Hyundai dealers will inspect the wiring and remove a faulty fuse as an interim repair. Kia, however, does not currently have an interim repair in place. Both companies have stated that a final repair to fix the issue is being developed.
Furthermore, Hyundai and Kia have stopped selling the affected SUVs in their dealerships until a final repair is developed and implemented.
Collision repair techs should be aware of this defect, as tow hitches often get bumped during collisions, and be mindful of the condition of the wiring in this part when making a repair.
