- 2021-2024 Kia K5 recalled (250,547 units)
- 2020-2023 Hyundai Sonata recalled (85,043 units)
- The melting fuel tank recall encompasses more than 335,000 sedans
- The recall affects vehicles with the turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine
Hyundai and Kia are recalling more than 335,000 midsize sedans equipped with turbocharged engines due to an issue that can cause the fuel tank to expand and melt, increasing the risk of a fire. The recall applies to select models from specific years, specifically to models equipped with the turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, Hyundai and Kia disclosed to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) last week.
The issue stems from a damaged check valve that lets air into the fuel tank, which could cause it to expand. If the fuel tank expands, the plastic container might contact the exhaust pipe, potentially causing the plastic tank to melt. This could lead to a potential fuel leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
Occupants may notice a popping sound from the fuel tank, an illuminated Check Engine light, a fuel odor, and the vehicle may run rough.
Hyundai recalled 85,043 Hyundai Sonata sedans from the 2020 to 2023 model years. Kia recalled 250,547 Kia K5 sedans from the 2021 to 2024 model years. Cars equipped with the 2.5-liter engine are not affected by this recall. Newer models have a different type of check valve.
Owners can expect notification by mail as early as Jan. 16, 2026. Owners will be advised to take their recalled vehicles into a Hyundai or Kia dealership for an inspection and repair of the affected check valve. An inspection and update of the software may also be conducted. Reimbursement may be provided to owners who paid to have this work done prior to the recall.
By law, dealers cannot charge for recall repairs.
Automakers recall many cars to fix safety defects, sometimes more than once. While automakers try to reach every owner to ask them to bring the vehicle in for repair, they rarely get them all. Millions of vehicles on American roads need free recall repairs. To find out if your car is one of them, check the easy VIN tool at our recall center.
For more info for Kia owners, contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542 or visit Kia’s recall page here.
For more info for Hyundai owners, contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460 or visit Hyundai’s recall page here.
