Hyundai and Kia have announced the recall of more than 571,000 vehicles because their tow hitch can catch fire while parked or while being driven.
The Associated Press reported that the automakers are telling owners to park the SUVs and minivans that are under the recall outside and away from structures until repairs can be made.
The companies said that water can get into the hitch’s circuit board and cause a short circuit even when the cars are off.
There has been one report of a fire and five heat damage incidents, but no injuries, involving Hyundais, but no reports of fires or injuries with Kia vehicles, the AP reported.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said the affected vehicles include:
- 2019-2023 Santa Fe
- 2021-2023 Santa Fe hybrid
- 2022-2023 Santa Fe plug-in hybrid
- 2022-2023 Santa Cruz
- 2022-2023 Carnival minivan
The NHTSA said dealers will complete repairs for free.
Owners should contact their dealer to have the tow hitch computer and fuse removed until a new one is available. The new device will include a waterproof connector.
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