The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) of the United States have issued a recall announcement that affects some Sorento and Sportage models.

According to the campaign letter it focuses on an issue that could lead to “a fire while parked or driving” while the source of the issue seems to be the towbar harness.

It affects some vehicles fitted between 2016 and 2022 with a manufacturer or dealer installed tow hitch harness which is included with your towbar.

The source of the issue according the recall document: “Debris and moisture accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.”

The document goes on to advise owners of affected vehicles to “park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. The remedy is currently under development.”

Are vehicles in South Africa affected? We’ve asked KIA PR the question by email and will post an update when received.

Source: NHTSA