Kia and Genesis recall 235K cars over fuel leak issues

How car recalls get reported

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) officially start car recalls after receiving complaints from consumers.

Federal safety filings released this week reveal two significant vehicle recalls affecting more than 235,000 cars and SUVs across the United States, with potential fuel system defects raising concerns about fire risk.

Documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show that the two automakers filed separate, though seemingly related recalls on April 10.

Kia recall information

By the numbers:

Kia announced a recall of 141,032 model year 2022–2026 Kia Carnival vehicles. 

The logo of KIA seen at a dealership store. (Credit: Igor Golovniov/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Kia estimates that about 1% of the recalled vehicles may have the defect. The affected vehicles were produced between January 4, 2021, and November 20, 2025.

Big picture view:

According to the report, a suspected production deviation may cause the nuts on the high-pressure crossover fuel pipe to loosen over time. If this occurs, it could lead to a fuel leak.

Safety regulators warned that leaking fuel in the presence of an ignition source significantly increases the risk of a vehicle fire. Drivers may notice early warning signs such as a strong fuel odor or the illumination of the check engine light.

What's next:

To address the issue, Kia dealers will inspect the high-pressure crossover pipe. If a leak is detected, the component will be replaced. If no leak is found, technicians will tighten the pipe’s fastening nuts. Owner notifications are scheduled to begin June 2, 2026, following dealer notifications that started April 13.

Genesis recall information

By the numbers:

In a separate but similar action, Genesis is recalling 94,760 vehicles spanning model years 2021–2026, including the GV70, GV80, G80 and G90.

The Genesis recall stems from improperly secured retention fasteners in the engine’s fuel system. Investigators found that insufficient torque stabilizer was applied during assembly, allowing connections in the crossover fuel pipe to gradually loosen. As with the Kia recall, this defect could result in fuel leaks and increase the risk of an engine compartment fire.

The backstory:

The issue first surfaced through consumer complaints in mid-2024, with two early reports of fuel odor or leaks. A formal safety review was initiated after a "Speak Up for Safety" report in October 2024. By early 2026, the company had logged 129 reports related to the condition in the U.S., though no crashes, injuries, or fires have been linked to the defect.

What's next:

Genesis dealers will inspect and tighten the crossover fuel pipe connections or replace components if leaks are found. Repairs will be performed at no cost to the vehicle owners, and reimbursement will be offered for qualifying out-of-pocket expenses.

Honda, Toyota and Mercedes-Benz vehicles also recalled

Big picture view:

Earlier this week, Mercedes-Benz recalled 24,092 cars connected to a drive shaft universal joint that may break, resulting in a sudden loss of drive power. 

RELATED: Mercedes-Benz recalls nearly 25K vehicles over drive shaft problems

Meanwhile, Toyota also announced a recall for more than 9,000 Lexus vehicles over a possible fuel pump failure, according to the NHTSA.

In addition, Honda recalled over 440,000 minivans due to issues with faulty air bags.