Large-Scale Recall Due to Fuel System
Automakers Kia and Genesis have announced a recall of 235,792 vehicles due to a potential malfunction that could lead to a fuel leak. The issue concerns a possible disconnection between the fuel line and the fuel rail.
Details of the Kia Recall
Kia is recalling 141,032 Carnival minivans from model years 2022 to 2026. The first signs of the problem appeared in January 2025, with complaints about a fuel smell and leaks from the high-temperature fuel line connecting the fuel rails in the GDI engines of 2022-2024 model year Carnivals.
This prompted an investigation, which initially yielded no results. The manufacturer and supplier continued to study the issue and eventually discovered a loose nut on two vehicles with fuel leaks.
The automaker was unable to precisely determine the root cause; however, engines produced after November 19, 2024, have updated fuel line tightening specifications, which should ensure reliable nut fastening.
Kia reports no accidents or fires related to this defect. It is believed the problem will manifest in only 1% of the recalled vehicles. To fix it, dealers will inspect, re-tighten, or replace the fuel line as necessary.
Similar Problem at Genesis
The luxury brand Genesis is also recalling vehicles due to a similar malfunction. The recall concerns G80 and GV80 models from 2021-2025, GV70 from 2022-2026, and G90 from 2023-2025. A total of 94,760 vehicles are involved, where a leak may occur at the connection point of the fuel line to the fuel rail.
According to regulators, the fuel line connecting the left and right fuel rails may have been installed with fasteners that could loosen over time. This could ultimately cause a fuel leak and fire.
Two cases of fuel leaks or smell were registered in July 2024, and another one in October of the same year. The last incident initiated an investigation, but resolving the issue proved difficult as testing did not show fastener loosening under various conditions.
Nevertheless, Genesis decided to proceed with the recall. Currently, there are 129 reports related to this problem. Technicians will inspect and re-tighten the fuel line as needed. If a fuel leak is found, the crossover pipe will be replaced.
Similar recalls concerning a single component in vehicles of different brands within the same conglomerate are a fairly common practice in the automotive industry. This often indicates the use of shared suppliers or unified technological solutions. Proactive measures, such as inspection and tightening of fasteners, even in the absence of mass incidents, demonstrate an approach focused on preventing potentially dangerous situations. For owners of the specified models, it is important to contact official dealers for a free inspection, even if no obvious signs of malfunction are observed, as the problem may have a latent character.