In a significant safety alert, Kia has issued a recall for approximately 463,000 Telluride SUVs spanning models from 2020 to 2024. Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures due to a risk that the front seats may ignite. The precaution comes after reports that misaligned seat control switches can cause the seat motors to overheat and potentially catch fire.
Details of the Defect
The root of the problem lies in the power seat switches located in the front of the SUV. According to documents from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), if these switches are struck hard enough, they can become stuck, leading the motor that adjusts the seat position to run continuously. This prolonged activity can generate excessive heat, culminating in smoke and, in severe cases, fire.
Consumer Safety and Incident Reports
The issue first came to light in 2022 when a customer reported smoke emanating from beneath the driver’s seat. Subsequent reports in 2023 included complaints of a smoke smell from the passenger-side power seat, which was found to be malfunctioning. The most alarming incident occurred in 2024, when a driver experienced a fire in the driver’s seat while operating the vehicle. Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries or accidents linked to this defect thus far.
Kia’s Response and Recall Plan
Kia has responded proactively to these alarming reports. After an internal investigation confirmed that the power seat switches could be compromised and overheat, Kia planned a corrective action. Starting at the end of July, Kia will begin notifying affected Telluride owners through mailed letters, instructing them to visit their nearest Kia dealership. The scheduled repair, which will be provided at no cost to the vehicle owners, includes the installation of reinforced switches and additional safety measures to prevent future incidents.
Further Safety Measures and Owner Assistance
Telluride owners concerned about whether their vehicle is affected by this recall can contact Kia customer service for more information. The automaker is committed to ensuring the safety of its customers and rectifying this serious issue promptly.
Background on the Telluride SUV
The Kia Telluride, designed in California and manufactured in Georgia, has been a popular choice among American consumers for its spacious three-row seating and robust features. The model’s demand was so high upon its release that dealerships initially struggled to maintain an adequate supply. This recall marks the second major safety notice for the Telluride this year, following an earlier issue related to vehicles potentially rolling away while parked.
Kia’s dedication to addressing these safety concerns head-on is evident in their swift action to rectify the seat switch issue and safeguard their customers.
