Center for Auto Safety Warns Purchasers to Avoid Used Hyundai and Kia Vehicles Subject to Engine Failure and Possible Fires

Center for Auto Safety Warns Purchasers to Avoid Used Hyundai and Kia Vehicles Subject to Engine Failure and Possible Fires

The Center for Auto Safety is urging consumers to avoid purchases of certain Hyundai and Kia models that continue to present major headaches for owners.

2011-2014 Hyundai Sonata, 2013-2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, 2011-2013 Kia Sportage, 2011-2014 Kia Optima, 2012-2014 Kia Sorento

These vehicles are models containing the Theta II GDI engine, failures in which resulted in safety recalls for potential fire hazards in 2018, after a petition by the Center to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.  In response to the investigation, Hyundai and Kia chose to install knock sensor software that reduces engine power and slows vehicles to a crawl to address the potential safety hazard.  Unfortunately, the recall repair did not address the root causes of the GDI engine failures, which owners continue to experience.

As these vehicles age and are no longer covered by the manufacturers’ original warranties, consumers bear the cost of engine repairs, which may now exceed the value of some models, making the purchase of one of these vehicles a financial risk.

Michael Brooks, Executive Director of the Center, said “We continue to see complaints on these vehicles from consumers across the country, which is why we are advising consumers to seek out alternatives when purchasing a used vehicle. The risk of future engine problems and the potential safety hazard posed by these cars simply isn’t worth the hassle.”

The Center also urges owners of these vehicles, as well as potential purchasers, to be sure that all recall repairs have been completed.  You can do so by visiting https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls or contact the Center for more assistance.