Kia Recall 2022: These 71,000 Cars Could Start On Fire. Here's Why

Following a recall issued in August for Kia and Hyundai vehicles over a potential fire risk, another almost 71,000 cars are being added to the recall for the same safety hazard.

According to the recall notice, the tow hitch harness can start on fire while parked or driving, requiring owners to park their vehicles outside and away from structures as a safety precaution.

The expanded recall affects certain 2016 to 2022 Sorento, 2021 to 2023 Sorento Hybrid, 2022 to 2023 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid, and 2017 to 2022 Sportage models.

The recalled vehicles are equipped with a tow hitch harness as original equipment or as an accessory purchased at a Kia dealer. The fire risk is due to debris and moisture accumulation on the tow hitch harness model printed circuit board. This could cause a short that could start a fire.

Kia is warning affected vehicle owners to park outside and away from any structures until a repair is completed. Kia is currently in development with a remedy to the tow hitch issue.

Recall notices are expected to be mailed on Nov. 14.

Questions about the recall can be directed to Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542.

The initial recall from both Hyundai and Kia affected 2020 to 2022 Palisade SUVs and over 36,400 2020 to 2022 Telluride SUVs.

These vehicles could also have an electrical short in the tow hitch harness, requiring them to be parked outside due to possible fires.

Kia has received at least three confirmed reports of fires and 30 reports of "localized melting incidents" related to this recall. Its dealers have also been advised to stop selling the tow hitch accessory.

The automaker said that no fatalities, injuries, or crashes have been reported.