Hyundai & Kia Recall EVs Over Battery Defect Linked to Fire Risk

According to information released through recall notices, the problem stems from defective high-voltage battery cells supplied by battery manufacturer SK On. Investigators found that some battery cells may contain misaligned internal electrodes. Under certain conditions, these defects can create an internal short circuit within the battery pack, increasing the possibility of overheating and, in rare cases, a vehicle fire.

The issue came to light after battery-related fire incidents were reported in South Korea. Hyundai and Kia then expanded their review to vehicles in North America and identified a small number of potentially affected vehicles. While the total number of recalled vehicles is relatively low, both automakers opted to move forward with a recall because of the potential safety risk associated with high-voltage battery failures. 

Which Vehicles Are Affected?

The recall affects select 2022-2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5, 2022-2024 Kia EV6, and 2024 Kia EV9 models. These vehicles use battery packs containing cells produced during specific manufacturing periods that may have been affected by the defect. Hyundai and Kia are contacting owners directly and using vehicle identification numbers (VINs) to determine whether a particular vehicle is included in the recall campaign.

Although only a limited number of vehicles have been identified, owners should not assume their vehicle is unaffected without checking their VIN through official recall notices or manufacturer channels. Owners can also search the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall database to confirm whether their vehicle is part of the recall.

What Measures Are Hyundai & Kia Taking?

Both manufacturers have instructed affected owners to park their vehicles outdoors and away from homes, garages, and other structures until repairs are completed. They have also advised owners to limit battery charging to 80% capacity or less as a precautionary measure until the recall remedy is performed. These recommendations are intended to reduce the risk of overheating and potential property damage should a battery-related thermal event occur.

Dealers will inspect the affected vehicles and perform repairs at no cost to customers. Depending on the results of the inspection, the remedy may include replacing affected battery components or installing updated parts and software designed to address the issue. The repair process will be covered under the recall program.

What Owners Should Do Now

Owners of Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, and Kia EV9 models should check whether their vehicle is included in the recall by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall database or the manufacturer's website and entering their VIN.

Kia plans to begin notifying affected owners by mail on August 7, 2026, while Hyundai is expected to send notification letters starting August 31, 2026. These notices will include instructions on how to obtain the free recall repair and any additional steps owners should take before their service appointment.

If a vehicle is affected, owners should follow the safety guidance issued by Hyundai or Kia, including parking outdoors and away from homes, garages, and other structures until repairs are completed. Owners should also schedule a repair appointment as soon as they receive their recall notice. Drivers should watch for warning lights, battery-related alerts, unusual odors, smoke, or signs of overheating and seek immediate service if any of these symptoms appear.

For additional information, Hyundai owners can contact the company's customer service line at 855-371-9460 and reference recall number 305, while Kia owners can call 1-800-333-4542 and reference recall number SC375. Owners may also contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or visit the agency's website for recall updates and assistance.

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