NHTSA Recall 18V666000
Filed by Kia America, Inc.. Component: Hybrid Propulsion System. Reported 2018-09-25. An estimated 27,030 vehicles are affected. Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer.
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Niro hybrid electric vehicles. The Main Relay within the Power Relay Assembly (PRA) may have inadequate connections between its contacts, causing increased electrical resistance.
Risk
The increased electrical resistance can overheat the rear seat which is above the PRA, increasing the risk of a fire.
What the manufacturer will do
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the Power Relay Assembly (PRA) for damage. If no damage is found, the main relay will be replaced. If damage is found, the PRA will be replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began November 23, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC168.
Manufacturer campaign number: SC168
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.