Over 250,000 Kia vehicles are being recalled due to safety concerns.
According to a notice posted on Nov. 17 from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Kia America, Inc. issued the recall to warn about an issue that could cause the fuel tank to melt, leak and increase the risk of a fire.
“A damaged check valve can allow air to enter the fuel tank, causing it to expand and contact hot exhaust components, melting the tank,” the notice stated.
Here’s what to know about the recall.
The NHTSA says 250,547 units of certain 2021-2024 Kia K5 vehicles are potentially affected. According to a safety recall report, the vehicles were produced at Kia Georgia from March 27, 2020, to Jan. 23, 2024.
The agency stated that they were “equipped with a 1.6L Turbocharged Gasoline Direct Injection engine.”
The number associated with this recall is SC356.
Consumers could identify the problem by a “popping sound from fuel tank area, illumination of Check Engine Light (CEL), and/or vehicle running rough,” per the report.
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Car owners can bring their vehicles to the dealership for a free inspection and check valve replacement. The fuel tank could also be replaced if needed.
Notification letters will be sent out in January.
Consumers could also reach Kia’s customer service line at 800-333-4542.
Car owners looking to check the status of their vehicles, car parts or car accessories can enter their information into the NHTSA recall database or check USA TODAY’s recall database for car and motor vehicle recalls.
Taylor Ardrey is a news reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her at tardrey@gannett.com.

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