Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride Fires and Recalls – Class Action Investigation

CSK&D is investigating a potential class action case concerning reports that 2020-2022 Hyundai Palisades and Kia Telluride vehicles carry a risk of fire related to a possible short circuit caused by debris or moisture accumulating inside the tow-hitch harness module. The harness may have been installed either as original equipment or through the dealer as an accessory. Kia has confirmed 1 fire and 5 cases of melting, while Hyundai has confirmed 8 cases where melting has occurred.

Hyundai is recalling 245,030 Palisades, and Kia is recalling 36,417 Tellurides, all model year 2020-2022. Both automakers are also ordering a stop-sale on affected models according to an alert from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) (see https://www.nhtsa.gov/press-releases/consumer-alert-important-hyundai-and-kia-recalls-fire-risk.)

According to the NHTSA, Hyundai has issued an interim repair only to inspect the tow hitch module and remove the fuse, as necessary. No interim repair is available for Kia vehicles. A recall repair is said to be under development with Hyundai to notify dealers and owners of a recall on October 17, 2022, and Kia to notify dealers on October 14.  In the meantime, both automakers are advising owners of affected vehicles to park outside and away from buildings until the recall is addressed.

If you own or lease a 2020-2022 Hyundai Palisades or a Kia Telluride with a tow-hitch harness module, please complete the form below.