Kia Telluride Recall 2020-2024 Over Seat Motor Fire Risk

Kia America has announced a recall affecting 462,869 model year 2020-2024 Telluride SUVs after identifying a potential fire hazard linked to the power seat motor. The recall applies to vehicles operating in the United States, and owners have been instructed to park their vehicles outdoors and away from buildings or other vehicles until the latest repair has been completed. The campaign replaces an earlier remedy after investigators determined that some vehicles could still face the same safety risk.

Why the Kia Telluride Is Being Recalled

According to the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the issue may occur if the front power seat slide cover or adjustment knob is accidentally struck. Such an impact can dislodge, misalign or damage the seat switch, causing the seat motor to continue operating without stopping. Continuous operation can generate excessive heat, increasing the possibility of the motor overheating. In addition, vehicles that received an improper repair during the previous recall may also remain vulnerable to overheating and a potential fire.

Seat Supplier and Reported Incidents

The affected power seat assemblies were produced by Duck-il Industry in Korea. Safety records associated with the investigation have identified seven reported seat fires along with 11 additional incidents involving melted seat motors. These cases prompted authorities and the manufacturer to introduce a revised corrective action intended to eliminate the remaining risk.

Recall Timeline and Repair Details

Owners are expected to receive notification letters beginning August 13. After receiving the notice, customers can schedule an appointment with an authorized Kia dealer for the updated repair. Dealers will install an electronic fuse assembly designed to stop continuous seat motor operation if the seat switch becomes dislodged, internally misaligned or otherwise damaged, helping reduce the likelihood of overheating.

Key Recall Information

Vehicle owners should continue following the manufacturer's precautionary guidance until the updated repair has been performed. Parking affected vehicles outside and away from structures or nearby vehicles helps reduce the potential consequences should overheating occur before the recall remedy is completed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why has the Kia Telluride been recalled?
The recall was issued because the front power seat switch can become dislodged, damaged or internally misaligned after being struck, allowing the seat motor to operate continuously. Excessive operation may cause the motor to overheat and potentially start a fire. Some vehicles repaired under the previous recall may also remain at risk, prompting Kia to introduce a revised remedy that includes installing an electronic fuse assembly at authorized dealerships.

What should affected Kia Telluride owners do now?
Owners should park affected vehicles outside and away from buildings or other vehicles until the updated repair is completed. Notification letters are scheduled to be mailed beginning August 13, after which owners can arrange a free appointment with an authorized Kia dealer. During the visit, technicians will install an electronic fuse assembly designed to prevent continuous seat motor operation if the seat switch becomes damaged or misaligned.