Kia EV6 recalled for loss of drive power

Kia is recalling 62,872 EV6 electric vehicles because onboard charging control units could become damaged and trigger a reduced-power driving mode.

The recall covers 2022-2024 models, which have integrated charging control units that may become damaged by certain electrical loads, preventing them from charging the vehicles’ 12-volt batteries, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

2024 Kia EV6

Failure of 12-volt battery charging causes the vehicle to enter a fail-safe mode, which will gradually reduce power if the vehicle continues to be driven. If this condition occurs, drivers will hear warning chimes and see dashboard warning lights, according to the NHTSA.

The remedy involves updating the charging control unit’s software, as well as inspection of the unit and its fuse, with replacement as needed. All of this work will be performed by dealerships free of charge to owners. Kia expects to mail owner notification letters Dec. 13. Owners can also contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542 for more information. Kia’s reference number for this recall is SC327.

2024 Kia EV6

Some of the recalled vehicles were involved in a previous recall for the same issue, but will still need to have the new recall work completed, the NHTSA confirmed. That recall also included EVs from the related Hyundai and Genesis brands, some of which are also being recalled a second time to address this issue.

The EV6 arrived for the 2022 model year and was a EV kind of cars Best Car To Buy 2023 finalist. For 2025, it gets a number of updates including bigger battery packs, a North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, and revised styling. Kia will also build U.S.-market vehicles at its West Point, Georgia, factory.