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Kia and regulators taking action on fire reports

Posted at 4:07 PM, Jun 27, 2018
and last updated 2018-11-08 17:13:56-05

Duane Silva and his 10-year-old son barely escaped the family's 2014 Kia forte when the engine caught fire three weeks ago. Silva is among six Kia owners whose cars burned up and have provided emails saying Kia refused to inspect their vehicle.

On Thursday, a corporate spokesperson confirmed they were tracking down two of the vehicles, a Forte and Sorento involved in two of the most recent fires.

The automaker says it will inspect Silva's Forte tomorrow. Silva said it is the first time Kia showed an interest in his vehicle.

More than 60 fires involving Sorentos and Optimas from 2011 to 2014. The stories caught the attention of the Center for Auto Safety and Senator Bill Nelson.

Both formally asked the National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration to investigate the fires. Today NHTSA said it is reviewing any non-collision fire complaints and other data on all Kia vehicles.

NHTSA says it has received more than 400 complaints involving all Kia and Hyundai vehicles. The review targets both automakers. It could lead to a safety defect investigation which would mean recalls.