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Kia Sedona loose alternator battery connection can spark

NHTSA campaign 20V399000 · Reported 2020-07-08 · Kia Motors America

critical How serious is it? About this label

Serious — there is a fire risk, and while the notice does not tell owners to stop driving, you should get the free inspection done quickly and see a dealer immediately if you notice a burning smell or electrical trouble.

What's wrong, in plain English

On some 2020 Kia Sedonas, the nut that holds the main positive battery cable onto the alternator may not have been tightened enough at the factory, so it can work loose over time. A loose connection carrying that much electrical current can spark and arc, and that arcing can start a fire in the engine compartment. A Kia dealer will inspect the nut and tighten it properly, free of charge. The repair itself is simple and quick.

What you should do

1. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see whether your Sedona is included in recall 20V399000 (Kia's number SC192).
2. Call your Kia dealer, or Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542, to schedule the alternator terminal inspection.
3. Have the nut inspected and tightened — the work is free, including on used vehicles.

Affected vehicles (1)

2020 Kia Sedona

Who to contact

Kia — official Kia recall lookup

Customer service: 1-800-333-4542

Any franchised dealer for the brand can do the repair. Phone numbers are taken from manufacturer sites and recent NHTSA notices; if one has changed, the number in your own recall letter is the one to use.

The bigger picture

Kia electrical recalls: fire, lost power and dead lights explained · all 19 Kia recalls in this area

Official notice

Component: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
Summary: Kia Motors America (KIA) is recalling certain 2020 Sedona vehicles. The battery positive (B+) terminal nut on the alternator may not have been tightened properly during assembly, possibly causing it to loosen over time.
Safety risk: If the alternator B+ terminal nut loosens, electrical arcing may result, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the alternator B+ terminal nut, tightening it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began August 14, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC192.

Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov. Recall repairs are free of charge by law.