Kia has issued a recall for about 48,000 EV6 electric vehicles (EVs) from model years 2022 through 2024 because of an electrical problem that can leave them stranded.
Like most EVs, the EV6 has two batteries – the large battery that provides most of its driving power, and a small 12-volt battery that assists with startup and powers some accessories. Kia tells the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that a charging unit for the smaller battery can degrade over time during normal thermal cycling. If that happens, the smaller battery can drain completely.
“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,” according to the NHTSA filing.
Drivers get plenty of warning, Kia says. Warnings the problem is developing can include audible chimes, a Check Electric Vehicle System warning light, a Master warning light, a Charging system warning light, Stop vehicle and check power supply warning light, a power down (turtle) warning light and, eventually, loss of drive power.
Dealers will fix the problem by inspecting the charging unit, replacing it and its fuses if needed, and installing updated software to prevent the issue.
Recall repairs, by law, are free. Many cars are recalled, often more than once, during their lifespan. Automakers try to contact every owner but don’t always reach them all. Find out whether your car has any outstanding recalls with the easy VIN tool at our recall center.
