KIA Motors recalled over 100,000 cars due to safety issues.

Kia recalls nearly 295,000 vehicles in the U.S. after NHTSA’s recommendation as the engines could stall or catch fire.

Kia recalls nearly 295,000 vehicles in the U.S. after NHTSA’s recommendation as the engines could stall or catch fire.Certain 2012 and 2013 Sorento SUVs, 2012 through 2015 Forte and Forte Koup cars, and 2011 through 2013 Optima Hybrid cars are included in the recall along with 2014 and 2015 Soul SUVs and 2012 Sportage SUVs.

Dealers would inspect the engine compartment for fuel or oil leaks, perform an engine test and make any repairs, replace the engine if necessary, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration(NHTSA) said. Kia is currently developing a Knock Sensor Detection System software update.

The move comes after the U.S. government fined Kia and affiliated Korean automaker Hyundai for allegedly delaying recalls. Kia and affiliate Hyundai Motor Co agreed to a $210 million civil penalties after U.S. auto safety regulators said they failed to recall 1.6 million vehicles for engine issues on time. Kia’s civil penalty totaled $70 million, including an upfront payment of $27 million, requirements to spend $16 million on specified safety measures, and a potential $27 million deferred penalty. Kia denied the U.S. allegations but said it wanted to avoid a protracted legal fight.

Engine failure and fire problems with Kia and Hyundai have been seen in the companies for more than five years. In 2019, both companies had recalled cars after National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began investigating Kia and Hyundai engine fires.