More than 15,000 Kia Sportages in New Zealand have been recalled over fears engines could catch fire, even when they've been switched off.
Models of Sportages made between 2015 and 2021 have been recalled,
A recall is also in place for Kia Stingers made between 2016 and 2020.
Referring to both models, the NZ Transport Agency said in a statement that "the hydraulic electronic control unit (HECU - electronic unit controlling ABS system) in some vehicles may experience a short circuit if water enters the unit resulting in excessive electrical current and this may present an increased risk of fire".
Owners should contact local authorised Kia dealers to arrange the completeion of the recall, NZTA said.
It comes after Kia Australia recalled Kia QL Sportages built between 2016 and 2021, along with CK Stingers built between 2017 and 2019 over the risk.
"If an electrical short circuit occurs, this could result in an engine compartment fire when the key is switched off and the vehicle is parked," Product Safety Australia said.
"A vehicle fire could increase the risk of injury or death to vehicle occupants or bystanders and damage to property."
Kia New Zealand said it had been made aware of the recall action in Australia and was "following appropriate protocols" as required by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency through its recalls website .
Information was being finalised before a similar recall to Australia's was released.
"The safety of Kia owners is paramount and, whilst there haven’t been any historical incidents of this specific issue happening in New Zealand, we are proceeding with due caution and will issue a recall notice," Kia New Zealand managing director Todd McDonald said.
"We will be proactively contacting all owners of affected vehicles and asking them to take their vehicle to their nearest authorised Kia dealership for inspection and repair, the cost of which will be covered by Kia New Zealand."
There are approximately 15,000 Sportages and 120 Stingers which will be subject to the recall.
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