Kia is recalling the first generation of the e-Niro due to fire risk

Kia has launched a global recall for the all-electric version of the Niro. The reason for this unplanned service action on the e-Niro is inadequate battery monitoring, which can increase the risk of fire. Only units from the first generation of the model are affected.

Vehicles produced between May 19, 2020, and March 18, 2022, are subject to this action. A total of 14,117 units worldwide need to be taken to repair shops, of which 11,331 are in the European market. In the German market, the number of affected vehicles is 1,791. The German Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) is monitoring the recall under reference number 16831R.

The technical cause of this problem is inadequate monitoring logic in the battery management system (BMS). Under certain operating conditions, control over the high-voltage battery may be limited. This can lead to overheating of the battery cells and increase the risk of fire. The issue can occur while driving, when parked, or during charging.

In authorized service centers, updating the battery management system software is the primary corrective measure. This standard procedure takes about half an hour. Additionally, technicians check the condition of the battery.

If damage to the energy storage system is already detected during this inspection, the dealers will replace the entire battery pack free of charge. However, this comprehensive replacement process can take up to six hours. Kia is carrying out this service action under the manufacturer’s internal code “261261”.

All vehicles recalled are from the first generation of the Kia e-Niro, which was produced between late 2018 and March 2022. The second generation launched afterward, referred to as the Niro EV from that point on, uses different components. As a result, these vehicles do not need to go to a repair shop. Kia ceased selling the Niro EV in Germany in November 2024 in favor of the newer Kia EV3, and internationally only stock vehicles are being sold now. Today, the Niro is available only in its hybrid version.

Similar recalls have occurred in the past for Hyundai’s parent company regarding the Kona and Ioniq models. Affected vehicle owners are contacted directly to arrange an appointment at a certified service center. No incidents involving property or personal injury related to this defect have been reported so far.