Kia and Hyundai Recall Over 235,000 Vehicles for Potential Fuel Leaks

Kia and Hyundai have initiated recalls for a combined total of more than 235,000 vehicles in the United States due to potential fuel leak issues, according to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The recalls address concerns that certain fuel pipe connections may loosen over time, potentially leading to leaks.

Kia is recalling certain Carnival models manufactured between 2022 and 2026, affecting more than 141,000 vehicles. The issue involves a suspected production deviation that may cause fuel pipe nuts to loosen, increasing the risk of a fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source, which could result in a fire or injury.

Dealers will inspect the high-pressure crossover pipe for leaks, replace it if a leak is found, and securely fasten the nuts even if no leak is present. Owners will be notified no later than the start of June, with dealers receiving letters about a week earlier.

Kia stated in recall documents that it has not identified any fires, accidents, or injuries related to the issue, but found 258 unique Vehicle Identification Numbers with a fuel leak. The NHTSA stated that dealers could violate the law by selling affected vehicles if aware of the issue.

Hyundai is recalling 94,760 vehicles, including Genesis GV80 models from 2021 to 2025, Genesis G80 from 2021 to 2025, Genesis GV70 from 2022 to 2026, and Genesis G90 from 2023 to 2025. The recall addresses crossover fuel pipes connecting the left and right fuel rails, where retention fasteners may have been tightened with insufficient torque stabilizer during assembly, causing the retention force to diminish over time.

Dealers will inspect the fuel pipes and tighten or replace them as necessary, with all remedies provided free of charge. Hyundai reported awareness of 129 instances of the condition in the United States between October 29, 2021, and January 27, 2026, with no crashes, fires, or injuries associated.

These recalls follow standard procedures for addressing manufacturing deviations identified through internal monitoring. Vehicle owners can check the NHTSA website using their Vehicle Identification Number to determine if their vehicle is affected. Both companies emphasized that the actions are precautionary to prevent potential safety risks.