The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of the United States issued a notice on Monday (November 17) that Kia America is recalling 250,547 K5 cars in the U.S. due to potential fuel tank damage, which could lead to tank melting, leakage, and increased risk of fire.
According to the agency, certain Kia K5 models from 2021 to 2024, totaling 250,547 vehicles, are at risk of being recalled. These vehicles were manufactured at Kia’s Georgia plant from March 27, 2020, to January 23, 2024, and are equipped with a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline direct injection engine.
The recall is identified as SC356.
The agency explained that “a damaged check valve can allow air to enter the fuel tank, causing it to expand and come into contact with hot exhaust components, resulting in tank melting.”
Affected tanks will undergo damage inspection and be replaced, with the check valve being replaced by dealerships.
Consumers can identify the issue by listening for “an explosion sound in the fuel tank area, the check engine light (CEL) coming on, and/or the vehicle running unsteadily.” Owners can take their vehicles to dealerships for a free inspection and check valve replacement. If necessary, the fuel tank can also be replaced.
Kia’s notification letters will be sent out in January, and consumers can call Kia Customer Service at 800-333-4542 or check the NHTSA recall database for more information.
Please note that this information has been referenced from USA TODAY’s reporting.