Kia recalls first-generation e-Niro over fire risk

Kia has launched a global recall for the first-generation e-Niro. The workshop campaign affects the all-electric version of the model and addresses insufficient battery monitoring, which could increase the risk of fire. Only units from the first generation of the model are affected.

The recall covers vehicles built between 19 May 2020 and 18 March 2022. Globally, 14,117 vehicles require inspection at authorised workshops, including 11,331 in Europe. In Germany, the recall affects 1,791 vehicles.

The recall addresses inadequate monitoring logic in the battery management system (BMS). Under certain operating conditions, the high-voltage battery can lose control, potentially causing the battery cells to overheat and increasing the risk of fire. The fault may occur while the vehicle is being driven, parked or charged.

At authorised workshops, technicians will update the battery management system software as the primary corrective measure. The procedure takes around 30 minutes. In addition, the condition of the high-voltage battery will be inspected.

If the inspection identifies damage to the high-voltage battery, the entire battery pack will be replaced free of charge. This repair can take up to six hours. Kia is carrying out the recall under the internal campaign code “261261”.

All affected vehicles belong to the first-generation Kia e-Niro, built between late 2018 and March 2022. The second-generation model, marketed as the Niro EV, uses different battery components and is not affected by the recall. Kia discontinued sales of the Niro EV in Germany in November 2024 following the launch of the EV3. Internationally, the company is now selling only remaining Niro EV stock, while the Niro continues to be offered exclusively with hybrid powertrains.

Kia’s parent company, Hyundai, has previously issued similar recalls for the Kona Electric and Ioniq Electric over comparable battery management system issues. Owners of affected e-Niro vehicles will be contacted directly to arrange an appointment at an authorised workshop. According to Kia, no cases of property damage or personal injury linked to this defect have been reported to date.