What 42 owners told NHTSA about the 2022 Kia Sportage Plug-in Hybrid

On Feb. 1, 2026 my 2022 Kia Sportage caught fire while parked and turned off. The vehicle had been stationary and was not running at the time the fire started. There were no warning lights, no prior overheating, and no collision or external cause. The fire appears to have originated from the engine/electrical area. This incident resulted in a total loss of the vehicle and posed a serious safety risk, as the fire occurred without warning. The vehicle was properly maintained and had no known modifications. This incident is concerning due to previous reports of Kia vehicles experiencing spontaneous fires related to electrical or engine components. I am requesting this incident be investigated for potential defects in electrical systems or engine components that may cause fires while the vehicle is parked and turned off.

NHTSA ODI 11714821

The vehicle was purchased new from the dealer in May 2021. Parked in the driveway and while attempting to adjust the seat height manually, the lever snapped off locking the seat height into its last position. The lever and its "teeth" are made of plastic which appears obviously and ultimately designed to fail. This could be a potential safety issue if the driver attempts to adjust the seat height while the vehicle is in motion. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? NO; the dealer will be notified tomorrow. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? NO; the dealer will be notified tomorrow. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure? NO; the dealer will be notified tomorrow.

NHTSA ODI 11456991