Kia is recalling 27,030 model-year 2017-2018 Niro hybrid electric vehicles for a second time because they may not have been properly repaired from the first recall. The main relay within the Power Relay Assembly (PRA) may have inadequate connections between its contacts, causing increased electrical resistance, which can overheat the rear seats. Overheated rear seats increase the risk of a fire.

Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on January 9, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542 or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s vehicle safety hotline at 888-327-4236 to learn more.

To fix the problem, dealers will inspect the PRA and replace either the PRA or the main relay, as necessary.

Vehicle manufacturers are legally required to repair any recalled issues or replace the defective part for free under the Highway Safety Act of 1970. If the dealership refuses to fix the problem or attempts to charge you for the repair, contact the manufacturer immediately.

Lemon Law Group Partners can assist car owners if they encounter any problems during the recall process with the manufacturer. Our attorneys deal directly with the manufacturer on the client’s behalf to quickly resolve the problem. In many cases, the attorneys get paid directly from the manufacturer so the client does not have to pay any attorneys’ fees to obtain legal counsel. For more information and a free consultation call 888-668-8581.