2015-2021 Kia Stinger and Sportage recalled: 60,000 engine fire risks 'should not be parked near any flammable structures or in an enclosed area'

Kia Australia has recalled nearly 60,000 first-generation Stinger large sedans and fourth-generation Sportage mid-size SUVs over an engine bay fire risk.

Specifically, the recall involves 1648 2017-2019 Stingers sold between December 14, 2016, and March 27, 2019, and 57,851 2016-2021 Sportages on sale from April 14, 2015, to October 20, 2020.

The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) in these vehicles can remain live even when they’re inactive. And if moisture enters the HECU, an electrical short circuit can result.

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According to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), if an electrical short circuit occurs, an engine bay fire could be realised when the ignition is switched off and the vehicle is parked.

Australia’s competition regulator added: “A vehicle fire could increase the risk injury or death to vehicle occupants or bystanders and/or damage to property.”

Kia Australia “recommends that the vehicle should not be parked near any flammable structures or in an enclosed area.”

Affected owners will be contacted by Kia Australia with instructions to book their vehicle in at a preferred dealership for a free-of-charge inspection and repair.

Until then, though, Kia Australia “recommends that the vehicle should not be parked near any flammable structures or in an enclosed area, i.e. not in a garage.”

Those looking for further information can call Kia Australia on 13 15 42. Alternatively, they can reach out to their preferred dealership.

A full list of impacted Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) can be found at the ACCC's Product Safety Australia website.

For reference, the HECU is responsible for the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control System (ESC) and Traction Control System (TCS).

As reported, Hyundai Australia issued a similar recall for 93,572 examples of the Sportage’s sibling, the 2015-2021 Tucson, in February.