Key facts
- Kia is recalling 462,869 Telluride SUVs (2020-2024 model years).
- The recall is due to a risk of fire from overheating front power seat motors.
- Owners are advised to park vehicles outside and away from buildings.
- The issue stems from a stuck slide knob in the power seat motor.
- Kia will install an electronic fuse assembly as a remedy, free of charge.
Kia America has initiated a new recall for approximately 463,000 Telluride SUVs, spanning model years 2020 through 2024. The recall urges owners to park their vehicles outside and away from structures due to a fire risk associated with the front power seat motor. This action supersedes a previous recall from earlier in 2024, as several customers reported fires even after receiving the initial repair.
According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration documents, the issue arises when the front power seat motor overheats due to a stuck slide knob. This can lead to a fire, whether the vehicle is parked or in motion. Kia's investigation into vehicles that had undergone the prior repair identified "sporadic dealer workmanship issues," prompting the new, broader recall.
Between October 2024 and April 2026, Kia's safety office documented 18 incidents involving localized seat fires or melting of the seat motor. No injuries or crashes have been linked to these fires. Kia stated that an external impact to the seat's side cover or slide knob could dislodge or damage the switch, leading to overheating if the motor is continuously used.
The automaker's updated remedy involves dealers installing an electronic fuse assembly at no cost to the owner. This fix is expected to be available in early August, with owner notification letters scheduled to be sent out starting August 13. Until the repair is completed, both Kia and NHTSA strongly advise owners to park their affected Tellurides outdoors.