All Investigations » Investigation PE05035

  Defect Investigation of Electrical Fire

Investigation of Electrical Fire

Subject: Electrical fire
Components covered:
  • Interior/under dash wiring
Investigations Summary: This investigation was opened on Jun. 28, 2005. It was closed on Oct. 19, 2005. Note: this investigation has resulted in a vehicle safety recall.
By letter dated October 4, 2005, kia notified the agency that it is conducting a safety recall (NHTSA recall no. 05v463) involving all model year (my) 2002, 2003 kia sedona ex vehicles and certain my 2004 kia sedona ex vehicles. Kiaâ¿s recall covers 74,276 vehicles. Kia reports that fires were caused by wiring under front seats being misrouted; this allowed the wire to be pinched by metal seat components. Over time, the short in the wiring under the seat causes overheating of components in the fuse box (located under the driver side instrument panel). Specifically, the circuit breaker diodes cycle on-off-on etc. And overheat. Kia will inspect vehicles for proper wire routing and install protective covering over certain metal parts under front seats. Dealers will also apply a label warning technicians not to remove the circuit breaker diodes which cannot be serviced but can be damaged by removal attempts. Based on kiaâ¿s safety recall action, this investigation is closed.
Vehicles Affected by this investigation:
  • 2003 Kia Motor Sedona

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