Kia and Hyundai Announce Brake Fluid Leak Recalls

In early September 2020, Korean automobile manufacturers Kia and Hyundai both announced recalls on vehicles that may be affected by a defect with the potential to cause engine fires.

About the Kia and Hyundai Brake Fluid Leak Recall

According to the automakers, approximately 600,000 vehicles in the U.S. and Canada may be affected by a defect that causes brake fluid to leak inside a hydraulic control unit. This leak may result in an electrical short occurring, which can then lead to an engine fire. An engine fire can be extremely dangerous, and could result in personal injuries in addition to destroying the vehicle or surrounding structures.

Hyundai has received 15 reports of engine fires caused by the brake fluid leak defect, while Kia has received eight reports. Both companies have reported being unaware of any injuries related to the defect. However, both Hyundai and Kia have also recommended that owners of recalled vehicles park these vehicles outside in order to avoid garage fires, until the vehicles can be reviewed by a dealer.

Which Cars Are Covered by the Recall?

Kia’s recall begins on October 15, and includes almost 450,000 vehicles. The affected Kia models are Kia Optimas produced between 2013 and 2015, as well as Kia Sorentos manufactured between 2014 and 2015.

The Hyundai recall is expected to begin on October 23, and will cover approximately 150,000 Hyundai Santa Fe SUVs manufactured between 2013 and 2015. Both companies have stated that recalled vehicles can be brought in for a free inspection by a dealer, and that any leaks in the control units will be fixed or replaced at no cost.

How Do I Know If My Vehicle is Affected?

According to Hyundai, if the anti-lock brake warning light comes on in vehicles covered by the recall, owners are recommended to cease driving the vehicle and contact their dealership for advice. Additionally, they may be recommended to disconnect their battery until it can be examined.

In addition to the brake warning light coming on, another symptom of a potential brake fluid leak is a strange feel on the brake pedal, or the pedal depressing all the way to the floor. If the brake fluid is leaking and allowing air into the brake lines, the brake pedal may feel squishy or soft when it is pressed. If the air has been inside of the brake line long enough to allow contaminants into the lines, condensation may form and cause the brake pedal to depress all the way to floor when it is stepped on.

You may also be able to visually inspect the vehicle to determine whether you have a brake fluid leak. Fluid leaking out from underneath the vehicle near the wheels is a common sign.

Lastly, the most dangerous symptom of a potential brake fluid leak is the brakes failing. When this occurs, the brakes may be pressed down without having an effect on the car’s speed. Brake failure caused by a brake fluid leak may be dangerous, especially if the issue is discovered while driving at high speeds, or on a highway.

If your vehicle is affected by a brake fluid leak defect, you may be eligible to speak with an experienced attorney about your case. Having an attorney on your side may make the process of having your vehicle repaired or receiving compensation easier for owners of defective vehicles. Additionally, if you have been injured as a result of a vehicle defect, you may be able to pursue compensation for medical expenses or injuries.

Join a Free Vehicle Safety Class Action Lawsuit Investigation

If you own a vehicle that you believe has a safety defect and you are outside of the warranty period or you believe the defect should be covered by the warranty and it’s not, or you or a family member have been injured by a safety related defect, you may qualify to join this vehicle safety defect class action lawsuit investigation.

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This article is not legal advice. It is presented
for informational purposes only.