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2017-2018 Kia Niro Recall: Safety Issues & What Owners Need to Know
Critical Recall Notice: 2017-2018 Kia Niro Hybrid Power Relay Fire Risk
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Recall Overview
Affected Vehicles: Approximately 27,000 model-year 2017-2018 Kia Niro hybrid hatchbacks manufactured between January 5, 2016 and October 19, 2017
NHTSA Recall Number: 18V706000
Kia Recall Number: SC180
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The Safety Issue Explained
The recall addresses a potentially dangerous electrical fault in the Niro's power relay assembly. The main relay within this assembly may have inadequate connections between its contacts, leading to:
- Increased electrical resistance in the circuit
- Excessive heat buildup near the rear seats
- Potential melting of components
- Increased risk of vehicle fire
This condition primarily occurs during vehicle startup when electrical current demand is highest. Kia's investigation found that certain relays manufactured during this period didn't meet the company's connection specifications.
Recall Repair Process
Kia dealerships will perform the following repairs at no cost to owners:
- Inspection: Technicians will examine the power relay assembly for signs of damage or overheating
- Repair:
- If no damage is found: Replace just the main relay component
- If damage is present: Replace the entire power relay assembly
- Testing: Verify proper operation of all electrical systems
The repair typically takes about 1-2 hours to complete, though wait times may vary by dealership.
What Niro Owners Should Do
If you own a 2017-2018 Kia Niro hybrid, follow these steps immediately:
- Check Recall Status: Visit the NHTSA recall website and enter your VIN
- Contact Kia: Call Kia's Consumer Assistance Center at 800-333-4542
- Schedule Repair: Contact your local Kia dealership to arrange the free repair
- Monitor Vehicle: Until repaired, be alert for:
- Burning plastic smell from rear seat area
- Unusual electrical behavior (flickering lights, power fluctuations)
- Warning lights on dashboard
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Additional Safety Information
While the risk of fire is relatively low, Kia recommends these precautions until the repair is completed:
- Avoid leaving the vehicle unattended while running
- Park outside of garages or enclosed structures when possible
- Remove flammable items from the rear seat area
- Consider keeping a fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires in the vehicle
Important Contact Information
Kia Customer Service: 800-333-4542 (Monday-Friday, 5am-6pm PST)
NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 888-327-4236
NHTSA Website: www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
Find a Kia Dealer: Use Kia's dealer locator
Recall Completion Rates and Updates
As of 2024 follow-up data:
- Approximately 89% of affected vehicles have been repaired
- No reported fires in vehicles that received the recall repair
- Kia extended warranty coverage for the power relay assembly to 10 years/100,000 miles on repaired vehicles
- Subsequent model years (2019+) were manufactured with redesigned relays
Related Recalls and Service Bulletins
Owners of affected Niro hybrids should also be aware of:
- 2018 software update for hybrid power control unit (NHTSA 18V073)
- 2019 recall for shift cable detachment (NHTSA 19V500)
- 2020 service campaign for hybrid battery fuse inspection
This recall affected only a specific production range of first-generation Kia Niro hybrids. Later models and the redesigned 2023 Niro are not subject to this particular safety concern. Always check your VIN at the NHTSA website for the most current recall information affecting your vehicle.
Klash
Last Updated On Oct, 08-2025