Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis have issued a recall for over 200,000 electric vehicles due to a faulty 12-volt battery charging system. The issue poses a significant safety risk as affected vehicles could lose power while driving, potentially leading to dangerous situations on the road. The recall affects several models, including the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6, Kia EV, and Genesis Electrified G80, Electrified GV70, and GV60.
According to reports filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the recall covers a total of 145,234 Hyundai and Genesis EVs, as well as 62,872 Kia EV6s. The problem lies with the Integrated Charging Control Units (ICCUs) in these vehicles, which are responsible for charging the low-voltage 12-volt battery using power from the high-voltage system. If the ICCU fails, it can result in the 12-volt battery not being charged, leading to a loss of drive power and causing the vehicle to suddenly lose speed and power.
Owners of the affected vehicles have reported incidents where their cars lost power while driving on the freeway, with the vehicle slowing down significantly before coming to a complete stop. One owner of a 2024 Ioniq 5 AWD reported receiving a message to check the electrical system before experiencing a complete loss of power, being unable to exceed 25 mph.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration had previously opened investigations into the 2022 Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 for the same issue, leading to recalls for those models as well. Despite previous recall efforts, the problem persists, prompting Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis to recall all previously affected vehicles and additional ones not covered in the initial recall.
If you own one of the affected vehicles, it is advised to contact your dealer for an inspection of the ICCU and its fuse, with replacements and software updates being carried out as necessary. The recall will be performed free of charge, and affected owners will be notified directly. It is crucial to address this issue promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of the affected electric vehicles.