Kia Recalls V6-Powered Stinger and K900 Sedans Over Fire Hazards

Kia issues recall for Stinger and K900 models with V6 engines due to a fire hazard linked to the turbocharger. Over 36,000 units are affected.

Kia has announced a recall of its V6-powered Stinger and K900 sedans, spanning multiple model years, due to a significant risk of fire. This action affects a total of 36,248 vehicles, with an estimated 1% believed to have the defect in question. The core of the problem lies in the turbocharged 3.3-liter T-GDI V6 engine, particularly one of the turbochargers that has been found to potentially leak oil, increasing the risk of an engine compartment fire.

The recall specifically targets the 2018–2022 Kia Stinger models manufactured between September 21, 2017, and September 15, 2021, and the 2019–2020 Kia K900 models produced from August 8, 2018, to August 24, 2020. Both these sedans are equipped with the turbocharged 3.3-liter Smartstream gasoline direct injection V6 engines. Notably, the Kia Stinger was discontinued last year, and the K900 was phased out in 2021, leaving a smaller lineup of sedans available from Kia in the U.S. market, including the K5, Forte, and Rio.

The safety concern stems from the left-hand turbocharger oil feed pipe and hose assembly. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s safety recall report, this component can deteriorate over time when exposed to radiant heat from the exhaust manifold. The resulting oil leaks pose a fire risk in the engine compartment, potentially leading to warnings such as oil leaks, a burning smell, white smoke, and the illumination of the engine oil pressure warning light.

Kia has recorded 25 cases in North America linked to this defect, including 14 Stingers and 11 K900s. Among these, there was one instance of localized melting in the engine compartment due to a fire. However, Kia reports no injuries or crashes associated with this issue.

For owners of the affected vehicles, Kia is offering a solution by replacing the problematic left-hand turbocharger oil feed pipe and hose assembly with an improved version, free of charge. This new part is made from a material that is less susceptible to deterioration. Kia is also setting up a reimbursement program for owners who have previously paid for repairs or replacements of the defective parts. It’s worth noting that Stinger sedans manufactured outside the specified date ranges already come equipped with the upgraded pipe and hose assembly.

This is not the first time the Kia Stinger has faced recalls. Previous recalls include issues with wiring harnesses that could catch fire and a need for ABS module replacements to mitigate fire risks. Owners of the affected models are encouraged to contact their nearest Kia dealer to arrange for the necessary repairs to ensure their vehicles are safe to drive.