Kia Recalls 462,869 Telluride SUVs — Seat Fire Risk Persists After Failed 2024 Fix
Kia is recalling approximately 462,869 Telluride SUVs due to a front power-seat defect that could potentially cause a fire — and many owners may have already had the exact same issue repaired under a previous recall in June 2024. This updated recall covers 2020 through 2024 Telluride models built between January 9, 2019, and May 29, 2024.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) warns that the fire risk is serious enough that owners should park affected Tellurides outdoors, away from homes, garages, and other structures until Kia dealers can complete the new repair.
Tellurides built starting May 30, 2024, received a reinforced power seat switch mechanism from the factory and are not included in this recall. Telluride models with manual front seats do not have the power seat motor assembly and are also excluded.
Why the 2024 Fix Didn’t Stick
This is the second time Kia has recalled these Telluride SUVs for the same problem. The June 2024 recall (NHTSA number 24V407) instructed dealers to install a reinforcing bracket on the power seat switch housing and replace the seat slide knob. However, Kia later discovered that dealers did not always install the bracket correctly, meaning the switch could still potentially fail.
The updated recall — NHTSA number 26V430, identified internally at Kia as SC374 — directly addresses this oversight.
How the Seat Motors Can Run Continuously
A hard impact to the front seat’s side cover or slide knob — like getting bumped by a passenger climbing in or out — can dislodge or misalign the internal seat switch. When that happens, the seat motor can run continuously instead of shutting off by itself, according to a statement from NHTSA.
The constant electrical resistance overheats the motor to the point where it melts, creating a fire risk beneath the seat cushion. This can occur whether the Telluride is running or parked.
Kia’s own tracking found 18 incidents tied to this defect between October 2024 and April 2026, including seven seat fires and 11 cases of melted components, according to NHTSA. No crashes, injuries, or fatalities have been reported at the time of this writing.
The New Fix: An Electronic Fuse
To resolve the problem this time, Kia dealers will install a new electronic fuse assembly. The fuse cuts all power to the seat motor if it runs too long, so the motor cannot overheat even if the switch is stuck or damaged.
What to Do If You Own an Affected Telluride
If you own a 2020 through 2024 Kia Telluride built between January 9, 2019, and May 29, 2024, it’s recommended to park your vehicle outdoors, away from your home, other vehicles, and structures, if possible.
Kia notified dealers about the recall on July 6, 2026. The automaker will mail owner notification letters between August 13 and August 19. However, contact a Kia dealer as soon as possible if the power seat switch on your Telluride sticks or does not stop moving, regardless of whether you’ve received a notification letter.
NHTSA expects the full list of affected vehicles to be searchable through its recall database starting July 17. Enter your VIN (17 characters, found on your windshield, registration card, or insurance card) to see everything specific to your vehicle.
How to Contact Kia and NHTSA
Telluride owners with additional questions can check their vehicle’s status through the Kia Owners Portal, call Kia customer care at 1-800-333-4542, or call the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236.
All recall repairs are free, whether your factory warranty has expired or you bought your Telluride used. If you already paid to have this seat switch repaired, Kia’s General Repayment Plan — filed with NHTSA on April 30, 2026 — covers those costs. Ask your dealer about reimbursement when you schedule your appointment.
This seat-related recall is separate from NHTSA campaign 26V356, which extends to 2027 Kia Telluride and Telluride Hybrid models. On those vehicles, the driver’s seat belt may not extend far enough, making it difficult or impossible to buckle. Kia dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the seat belt assembly.
Recall work can be performed alongside other routine maintenance at your local Kia dealership, so there’s no need to make a separate appointment.
Source: How-To Geek
