Story perspectives

Kia Recalls 462,869 Telluride SUVs Over Fire-Risk Seat Knob

7/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Kia America recalls 462,869 2020-2024 Telluride SUVs because a front power-seat slide knob can overheat and cause fire.
NHTSA advises owners to park the SUVs outdoors and away from structures until repairs are completed.
Dealers will install a free electronic fuse assembly and replace the knob, with repairs starting mid-July.
Kia logged 18 incidents—including seven fires and 11 melted motors—between October 2024 and April 2026 and will reimburse owners for prior repair fees.

History

Historical Context

In 2009, after GM’s Chapter 11 bailout, the NHTSA ordered a recall of 1.5 million Silverado trucks for fuel-pump fires, the first major safety action under tighter post-bankruptcy oversight. The trend persisted when Kia America announced a 2024 recall of 462,869 Telluride SUVs after seat-slide knobs sparked fires, echoing regulator pressure that followed GM’s 2014 $35 million fine for an ignition-switch defect linked to 124 deaths.

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Story summary

Kia America recalls 462,869 2020-2024 Telluride SUVs because a front power-seat slide knob can overheat and cause fire.
NHTSA advises owners to park the SUVs outdoors and away from structures until repairs are completed.
Dealers will install a free electronic fuse assembly and replace the knob, with repairs starting mid-July.
Kia logged 18 incidents—including seven fires and 11 melted motors—between October 2024 and April 2026 and will reimburse owners for prior repair fees.

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