Kia Motors America announced over the weekend that it is recalling almost 87,000 Forte sedans from the 2014 model year, as a result of equipment that could pose a fire risk to the vehicles.
Kia Motors America announced over the weekend that it is recalling almost 87,000 Forte sedans from the 2014 model year, as a result of equipment that could pose a fire risk to the vehicles. 2014 was a big year for recalls, as millions of vehicles were sent back to dealerships, with news of new recalls taking up space on automotive reports from January to December. Many of these recalls were related to General Motors’ ignition switch problems, which had been a big press relations disaster for the automaker.
Photo credit: Kia
Still, a lot of the recalls were initiated due to increasing pressure from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, as the federal agency sought to ensure more transparency among automakers when it comes to safety risks. And with 2015 having just started, the recalls are continuing, this time involving Korean automaker Kia.
The recall affects Kia Forte sedans manufactured between December 5, 2012 and April 17, 2014, and according to reports, the exact issue is a cooling fan resistor that could overheat and melt in affected cars. This could pose a serious fire hazard should the resistor end up melting. No injuries or casualties have been reported in relation to the recall.
As usual, repairs on affected Fortes will be done free of charge, though Kia has yet to confirm a hard date for the recalls to start. The company is expected to send out notifications on February 24, and owners of 2014 Fortes are encouraged to call Kia at 1-800-333-4542 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.