If you drive a Hyundai Sonata or a Kia K5, you’ll want to check your VIN; both automakers are recalling vehicles over a damaged check valve that can lead to a melted or leaking fuel tank.
Hyundai Motor America is recalling 85,043 Sonata sedans because a damaged check valve can allow air to enter the fuel tank. That can cause the tank to expand, touch hot exhaust components, and melt, increasing the risk of a fire, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Dealers will inspect and replace the check valve, inspect the fuel tank for damage, and replace the tank if needed on 2020–2023 Hyundai Sonatas. They’ll also update the engine control unit software. All repairs will be done free of charge.
Hyundai says owner notification letters are expected to go out Jan. 16, 2026, but you don’t have to wait. VINs involved in the recall became searchable on Nov. 19, 2025.
You can check whether your car is affected by entering your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Kia has also issued a similar recall.
On Nov. 17, the company recalled 250,547 K5 sedans from model years 2021–2025 for the same issue, a damaged check valve that can cause the fuel tank to expand, melt, leak and increase the fire risk.
Just like Hyundai, Kia will inspect and replace parts as needed at no cost.
You can check your Kia K5 by entering your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.