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A new SUV is in the hot seat because it could literally burn you with its seats. Roughly half a million Kia Telluride models are being recalled because the driver’s seat could catch on fire. As a result, Kia Telluride owners are being urged to park outside, away from structures. 

462,869 Kia Telluride SUVs have a recall due to a fire risk 

Being called hotpants can be a compliment or a literal issue with the Kia Telluride. About 462,869 models from 2020 – 2024 are under recall because the driver’s seat could catch fire. 

Any SUVs manufactured after May 30, 2024, have already been updated and Kia’s number for this recall is SC316. 

The problem is related to the power seat slide knob. It could get stuck, causing the front power seat motor to overheat and catch on fire. 

The seat adjustment switch can become dislodged if it’s hit too forcefully, locking the seat in the forward position as the motor continues to run. 

This issue could occur while the SUV is being driven or parked. So, Kia urges owners to park outside, away from structures and other vehicles. The flamming issue increases the risk of accidents and injuries. 

The 2024 Kia Telluride kicking up sand
2024 Kia Telluride | Kia

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA), Kia is aware of one under-the-seat fire reported by a Telluride owner. There are also six reports of the seat motor melting, but there are no reports of related accidents or injuries. 

You may notice if your Telluride is at risk if you can’t adjust your seat, smell burning from under the seat, or see smoke rising from the area. 

To correct this issue, you will need to take your Telluride to a local dealership for service. The dealers will install a bracket for the seat switch and replace the seat slide knobs for free. 

Kia will begin notifying owners at risk by July 30, 2024, via mail. You can call Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. 

You can also visit the NHTSA site to enter your 17-digit vehicle identification number to see if your Kia Telluride is at risk. Plus, you can call the NHSTA hotline at 888-327-4236 for more information.

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Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield joined MotorBiscuit in 2020 and covers all things trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck and SUV debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She has helped bring awareness to issues Women In Trucking face and has promoted Truckers Against Trafficking, an anti-trafficking NGO.

A fan of creatively dark literature, Allison appreciates the works of Shirley Jackson and Emily Dickenson. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her in testing trucks and SUVs for our site.