Kia Recalls Over 450,000 Previous Generation Telluride Crossover SUVs

Kia has recalled over 460,000 Telluride crossovers (2020–2024) due to a fire risk from overheated power seat motors. Owners are advised to park outdoors until vehicles are repaired.

Kia has expanded its recall regarding a persistent fire risk in its Telluride crossovers, as the manufacturer has determined that a previous remedy (recall number 24V407) was insufficient. The updated recall encompasses 462,869 vehicles across the 2020 to 2024 model years.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the front power seat motor in these models may overheat due to a sticking power seat slide knob. Additionally, an external impact to the seat cover can cause the power seat switch to become dislodged or misaligned, leading to continuous motor operation and a subsequent fire risk, particularly when the vehicle is parked indoors. It is further noted that improper repairs conducted during the previous recall may also contribute to this condition.

To rectify this issue, Kia will inspect the seat motors and install an electronic fuse assembly at no additional cost to owners to prevent continuous motor operation.

An official advisory has been issued for the affected Telluride models, mandating that these vehicles be parked outdoors until they have undergone the necessary inspection and repairs. Should the defect be present, occupants may observe a sticking power seat sliding knob, detect a burning or melting odour, or notice smoke emanating from beneath the seat.

Please note that this issue is exclusive to models equipped with power-adjustable front seats; vehicles with manual seating are not affected by this recall.

Kia is scheduled to distribute formal owner notification letters on August 13, 2026. Commencing July 17, owners of potentially affected Telluride vehicles may verify their status by utilizing the NHTSA’s online search tool, which requires the entry of the vehicle’s unique Identification Number (VIN).

While the recall report indicates that no injuries or incidents have been documented to date, the “Park Outside” advisory should be treated with the utmost seriousness, as such precautions are implemented only when deemed essential for safety.

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