By David Shepardson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – Kia Motors Corp mentioned on Saturday it’s recalling 295,000 U.S. automobiles for engine fireplace dangers.

The Korean automaker mentioned the recall covers some 2012-2013 mannequin yr Sorento, 2012-2015 Forte and Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, 2014-2015 Soul, and 2012 Sportage automobiles as a result of an engine compartment fireplace can happen whereas driving.

Sellers will examine the engine compartment for gas or oil leaks, carry out an engine check and make any repairs together with engine substitute, as crucial. Kia mentioned it’s at present growing a Knock Sensor Detection System software program replace.

Final week, Kia and affiliate Hyundai Motor Co agreed to a file $210 million civil penalty after U.S. auto security regulators mentioned they did not recall 1.6 million automobiles for engine points in a well timed style.

The Korean automakers agreed to consent orders after the U.S. Nationwide Freeway Site visitors Security Administration (NHTSA) mentioned the automakers inaccurately reported some data to the company concerning the recollects.

Kia’s civil penalty totaled $70 million, together with an upfront fee of $27 million, necessities to spend $16 million on specified security measures, and a possible $27 million deferred penalty.

The settlement covers recollects in 2015 and 2017 for manufacturing points that might result in bearing put on and engine failure.

Within the new Kia engine recall, NHTSA opened an investigation in 2019 into non-crash fires in Kia and Hyundai automobiles. The company in July really helpful Kia conduct recollects on sure fashions with the next fireplace criticism charge, the automaker mentioned.

Kia mentioned “primarily based on NHTSA’s advice” it had made the “determination to recall sure Kia automobiles as a preventative measure to mitigate any potential fireplace danger.”

Hyundai on Friday recalled 129,000 U.S. automobiles as a result of connecting rod bearings could put on prematurely, which over time can lead to engine injury and enhance fireplace dangers.

(Reporting by David Shepardson; Enhancing by Chris Reese)