May 1, 2026Electrical systemEngineFire
Drove roughly an hour from Roseville MI to Temperance MI. Car was fine. No issues on the drive. Gauges were all fine. Got to my friend’s house and took my stuff inside. Came back out immediately and saw dark smoke now coming from the hood. Attempted to open, but couldn't unlatch the hood after it was popped. Saw flames and called 911. Entire car burned down to the back seats. Car seat, Reading glasses and personal items destroyed. Fire fighters put it out and police took report. KIA after review states they dont know why it happened. Also has taken forever and not offered to compensate me in any way shape or form. Received their “findings” a day ago, April 30. Date of fire was Feb 11th 2026.
NHTSA ODI 11735174
Oct 12, 2023Electrical systemEngineFire
I was driving on the highway and my car started smoking. I got off at the next exit and black smoke started billowing out from under the hood. As soon as I opened the car door flames started coming out from under the hood. Entire engine was on fire
NHTSA ODI 11549547
Nov 11, 2022Electrical systemEngineFire
This car was equipped with the theta ll engine and I believe that’s what caused it because it was an electrical smoldering. The car has been signed over to the insurance company, it was totaled. If this had happened 30 minutes sooner, I would have been burned. Me and my daughter had luckily just got out of the car. No the problem has not been confirmed by a dealer. It has not been inspected by the manufacturer, but has been inspected by police and insurance. There was not any warning lamps or messages prior to the incident.
NHTSA ODI 11493159