Sunita Somvanshi
Kia America is recalling 39,536 Sorento SUVs from model years 2021-2023 because of a fire risk linked to their heating and air conditioning systems. The problem involves an overheating hazard in the HVAC blower motor wiring harness.
The issue can occur when drivers use the climate control system with the fan speed set specifically to level 3 while the ignition is on. Under these conditions, the connection between the blower motor resistor and its connector can overheat, potentially causing a fire in rare cases.
The problem has been traced to production variances from supplier Aptiv, which allegedly used thinner-than-normal gauge wiring in the harness. Kia’s investigation began in October 2024 after a customer reported a “rubber smell” coming from the air vents followed by a fire in a 2023 Sorento.
Kia has documented 25 vehicles with localized connector melting, one localized connector fire, and one vehicle fire. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in connection with this defect.
To fix the problem, Kia dealers will replace both the blower motor resistor circuit harness and the blower motor resistor at no cost to vehicle owners. The company plans to mail interim notification letters to owners around November 24, 2025, with a second letter following once the repair parts become available in December.
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The vehicles affected by this recall were manufactured between September 10, 2020, and December 29, 2023. Kia notes that 2024 model year Sorentos are not included in the recall because they use a different HVAC system.
Vehicle owners should be alert for warning signs of the problem, including a burning or melting smell and smoke coming from the vents. If these symptoms occur, owners should stop using the vehicle and contact their dealer immediately.
The recall is registered with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and Kia has assigned it the internal recall number SC351.Owners can confirm if their vehicle is affected by visiting the NHTSA website to check their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or by contacting Kia’s customer service at 800-333-4542.
This is one of several recalls affecting various Sorento models in recent years. Previous recalls have addressed different fire risks, including issues with the tow hitch harness in certain 2016-2022 Sorento vehicles that could cause electrical shorts.
As with all safety recalls, affected owners are encouraged to have the repairs completed promptly once parts become available to minimize any risk.
The recall illustrates the importance of vehicle manufacturers’ quality control processes, especially when dealing with supplier components that may affect critical safety systems.
