Kia is recalling almost 20,000 new 2023 Sportage SUVs in the U.S. because a loose nut could possibly spark a fire underhood. The defect specifically has to do with the positive-terminal nut on the alternator, which may work itself loose, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
If that happens, it’s possible the engine could stall; alternatively, it could cause arcing, melting wires and literally sparking a fire in the engine bay. The issue was discovered when an owner noticed their engine stalling and brought the car in to their mechanic; no injuries or crashes have been tied to the defect.
Some 19,701 Sportages made in Kia’s Georgia assembly plant from January 12, 2022 to August 8 may be affected in the U.S. Transport Canada does not have the recall campaign listed on its website, and it’s uncertain how many, if any, Canadian Sportages are affected.
New Sportages on the assembly line now undergo a torque confirmation process on the nut after manufacture; and affected SUVs will be repaired by the dealer via a visual inspection and, if necessary, a tightening of the part.
Keyword: Kia recalls new Sportages over loose-nut-related fire risk