Kia has recalled 62,872 copies of its EV6 electric car from model years 2022 through 2024 because an electrical problem can cause them to lose drive power.
Kia and Hyundai share partial ownership and use many common parts. This recall matches one issued last week by Hyundai and its Genesis luxury brand, bringing the total number of affected cars to over 208,000.
Electric cars have two batteries – the large battery that provides their range and a conventional 12-volt car battery just like the one in gas-powered vehicles. The smaller battery helps the car start and provides power for some accessories. The car recharges it as it drives, just as gas-powered cars do.
Kia tells the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that the system that recharges the smaller battery “may become damaged over time from transient high voltage and thermal cycling.” This can prevent it from charging the smaller battery.
“If the driver ignores the warnings associated with the discharging battery condition and continues to operate the vehicle in a reduced power mode, the vehicle may eventually experience a complete loss of motive power,” Kia says.
Those warnings could include “Illumination of ‘Check Electric Vehicle System’ warning light, Master warning light, Charging system warning light, ‘Stop vehicle and check power supply’ warning light,” or a “power down (turtle) warning light.”
Dealers will fix the problem by inspecting the system that recharges the smaller battery, replacing any damaged parts, and updating software to prevent it from happening again.
Recall repairs are always free. Manufacturers attempt to contact every owner but don’t always reach them all with the news. Find out if your car has any outstanding recalls at our recall center.
