Kia Niro EV Fire Risk - Avoid Indoor Charging

Kia Recalls 2022 Niro EVs Due to Battery Safety Issue

Kia is recalling 2,209 Niro EVs from the 2022 model year because of a potential safety issue with the high-voltage battery.

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The battery's safety plug can overheat and melt, possibly leading to a fire or loss of power while driving.

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According to the Safety Recall Report, the problem arises from the “contact surfaces of the high voltage battery safety plug,” which-

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might develop high electrical resistance over time. Kia suspects this issue stems from a flaw during the manufacturing process by their supplier.

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This defect could become dangerous if it happens while the vehicle is being charged or driven.

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In such cases, the safety plug can melt, leading to a possible loss of power or even starting a fire.

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Kia first noticed a potential problem in July 2023 when a Niro EV shut off while driving. A dealer found that the safety plug was melting. Initially,

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it seemed to be a one-time incident. However, Kia continued investigating and sent parts to Korea for a detailed analysis.

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They also learned about a similar case in Portugal. In February of this year, Kia North America received a report of a Niro EV that wouldn’t start.

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A dealer inspection revealed a melted safety plug. By March and April, three more cases had surfaced.

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While Kia has not reported any injuries, crashes, fatalities, or fires related to this issue, they are taking precautions.

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Owners are advised not to charge their vehicle in a garage or any covered structure until the recall repair is completed.

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Dealers will fix the issue by replacing the safety plug with a new one that has a solid connection, eliminating the problematic terminal.

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For more information, owners should contact Kia directly.

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