Kia Stinger & K900 Sedans Recalled for Potential Fire Hazard from V6 Engine

Recall impacts models with 3.3L T-GDI V6 engine.

Kia has announced a recall of select models of its no longer in production Stinger and K900 sedans, citing a possible fire risk linked to a specific turbocharger part. Roughly 36,248 cars are affected by the recall, with an estimated 1% believed to be equipped with the faulty component.

The vehicles affected by this recall are the 2018-2022 Kia Stinger, which were produced from September 21, 2017 to September 15, 2021. These models are equipped with a turbocharged 3.3-liter Smartstream gasoline direct injection V6 engine. Additionally, one 2023 Stinger, manufactured on June 29, 2022, is also included in the recall. Furthermore, the recall extends to the 2019-2020 Kia K900 units, produced between August 8, 2018 and August 24, 2020, with the same V6 engine.

It should be noted that the Stinger was no longer produced last year and the K900 also said farewell in 2021, resulting in only the K5, Forte, and Rio remaining as Kia’s sedan models in the American market.

As per the safety recall report released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a flaw has been identified in the left-hand turbocharger oil feed pipe and hose assembly. The prolonged exposure to radiant heat emanating from the exhaust manifold can result in degradation of these components over time. Such a deterioration can potentially cause oil leaks, posing a significant risk of an engine compartment fire while the vehicle is in motion. Drivers of the affected vehicles may notice indications like oil seepage, a burning odor, white fumes coming from under the hood, or the engine oil pressure warning light turning on.

Kia has announced that 25 incidents of a defect have been found in North America, consisting of 14 Stingers and 11 K900s. Of these incidents, one resulted in localized melting caused by a fire in the engine compartment. However, there have been no reports of injuries or accidents related to this issue.

To address the problem, impacted car owners must take their vehicles to a Kia dealership, where the left-side oil feed pipe and hose assembly for the turbocharger will be swapped out with an upgraded version at no cost. A reimbursement plan will also be implemented for those who previously replaced or repaired the faulty components prior to this recall. The car company stated that the substitute part is composed of a different substance that is less susceptible to decay.

According to Kia, Stinger sedans produced beyond the specified timeframes were already fitted with an improved version of the pipe and hose assembly.

This is not the initial recall for the Stinger. A previous model of the high-performance sedan was recalled due to potential ignition hazards stemming from faulty wiring harnesses, while certain units required replacement of ABS components several years back due to the risk of fire.