Kia Fire Risks Spark New Recall

Some 250,000 Kia vehicles are at heightened risk of going up in flames, according to the automaker.

Damaged valves, which let air into fuel tanks, could cause the tanks to expand, Kia told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That, in turn, may cause fuel tanks to melt and leak, increasing the risk of fires. 

“The purge control system check valve, which controls the direction of airflow from the charcoal canister to the engine, may deteriorate over time, allowing pressurized air to flow from the intake manifold into the fuel tank,” Kia said in a recall notice. “If this occurs, the fuel tank may expand and contact the hot exhaust pipe components. If the vehicle continues to be driven in this condition for a prolonged period, localized melting of the fuel tank may occur, possibly resulting in a fuel leak.”

The recall covers certain Kia K5 sedans from model years 2021 to 2024. The automaker said it plans to notify owners of recalled cars via mail by Jan. 16. Owners also can check the NHTSA website to see if their cars are included in the recall.

Kia will ask owners of recalled cars to bring their vehicles to authorized service providers for inspection and repair. In the meantime, K5 drivers should be aware of warning signs: “popping sounds” from the fuel tank, an illuminated “check engine” light or the vehicle otherwise running rough.

California Lemon Law Rights for Kia Owners

Kia and other carmakers recall millions of vehicles every year, citing a wide range of defects and malfunctions that put people in harm’s way. In October, for example, the company announced it was calling back some 39,000 Sorrento sport utility vehicles over a wiring harness issue that increased fire risks.

Fortunately, the California lemon law gives car owners and lessors in the state some strong rights and protections. Namely, you do not need to wait for a recall to get a defective or malfunctioning car repaired.

Formally known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, the lemon law requires carmakers to perform a wide range of repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty. It also forces the companies to buy back (or replace, in some cases) covered vehicles that they are not able or flat out refuse to fix. That includes compensating the owner for the purchase price, as well as financing fees, rental car costs and other related expenses.

There is no specific number of repair requests or attempts that must happen before the buyback or replace requirement kicks in. That is one reason why it is important to consult an experienced California lemon law attorney, who will help you understand your rights and take action.

Talk with a California Lemon Law Attorney

If you have been stuck with a defective or malfunctioning vehicle, a California lemon law attorney at Bickel Sannipoli APC can help you fight back.  

Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a California lemon law attorney.