Midsize cars and SUVs made by the Korean automakers may experience brake fluid leaks that could lead to an engine fire.

If you drive a Kia Optima, Sorento, or Hyundai Santa Fe, listen up. A recall has been issued on more than 500,000 cars of different model years due to issues with the braking system.  A dangerous defect could cause an electrical fire resulting from a brake fluid leak in a hydraulic control unit. The recall impacts Kia Optima sedans with model years 2013 to 2015, Kia Sorrento SUVs from 2014 and 2015, and Hyundai Santa Fe SUVs made from 2013 to 2015.

Both companies were already subject to an investigation by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration involving engine fires on the Hyundai Elantra, Sonata, and Santa Fe along with Kia’s Optima, Sorento, and Kia Soul of varying model years. Hyundai went ahead with a recall on the more than 430,000 Elantras last February.

Hyundai Sant Fe, courtesy Hyundai

The voluntary recalls were issued after 24 complaints were issued to both automakers dating back to April of 2018. Kia and Hyundai will inspect and repair the cars at no cost to the owners, beginning October 23, 2020. Customers are urged to seek a service appointment as soon as possible because a fire could occur even while the vehicle is turned off.

To find out if your car is subject to this or any other recall, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and enter your vehicle’s VIN number. If you have an experienced an issue with your car, you should also file a complaint with the federal agency. You can also visit owner portals at Kia and Hyundai to check for for information about the recall and schedule service at a dealer near you.