Kia and Hyundai are pulling back thousands of cars because of a fuel tank problem. It sounds dramatic, but here’s the deal: some tanks can swell up and even melt if they press against hot parts, like the exhaust, under the car. That’s why getting this one repaired really matters, and why owners should pay attention now instead of waiting until January.
What The Recall Covers
This hits two models:
- Kia K5, years 2021–2024
- Hyundai Sonata, years 2020–2023 with 1.6‑liter turbo engines
That adds up to more than 333,000 cars.
What Happens Before The Fix
At the heart of the problem is a bad check valve. When it doesn’t work right, air sneaks into the fuel tank. The tank swells, presses against the exhaust, and can melt. That means three things:
- Gas smell around the car
- Risk of fire if things get too hot
- Damage to the fuel system
What Owners Can Do Now
You don’t have to sit and wait. Here are three simple moves:
- Keep an eye out for strong gas odors.
- Watch for dashboard warnings tied to fuel.
- Call your dealer and ask if they’ll check it early.
What The Fix Looks Like
Dealers will replace the check valve, look over the fuel tank, and update the software. No charge to owners. Kia calls it rc-SC356, Hyundai calls it rc-286.
Any Incidents Yet
One of the companies has reported seven cases of fuel tank leaks in the U.S. and Canada. The good news: no crashes, injuries, or deaths have been tied to the defect. This is more about catching the problem before it gets worse.
Conclusion
When these things happen, it can feel like a hassle, but they’re about keeping drivers safe. If you own one of these cars, stay alert, check your VIN when it’s posted, and talk to your dealer. The fix is free, and catching it early can save you trouble down the road.
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