Kia Recall 21V-137: Service brakes, hydraulic – control unit/module

Affected: 2017–2019 Kia Cadenza, 2017–2021 Kia Sportage. Filed with NHTSA on March 4, 2021, covering about 379,931 vehicles.

Park outside: the manufacturer advises owners to park outside and away from structures until repaired.

The problem

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Sportage and Cadenza vehicles. The electrical circuit in the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may short-circuit, which can cause a fire in the engine compartment.

The risk

An engine compartment fire can increase the risk of injury.

The fix

Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace certain fuses in the electrical junction box. Vehicles equipped with an electronic parking brake (EPB) will also receive a HECU software update. Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on April 30, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC206.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign21V-137 (21V137000)
Manufacturer numberSC206
ManufacturerKia America, Inc.
ComponentService brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip › Control unit/module
Report dateMarch 4, 2021
Owners notifiedApril 30, 2021
Vehicles affected379,931
Initiated byManufacturer

Vehicles covered

Owner complaints about the brakes

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 21V-137 repair free?

Yes. Kia dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace certain fuses in the electrical junction box.

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 379,931 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Is it safe to drive?

Owners are advised to park outside and away from buildings until the repair is done, because of a fire risk.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.