Yet another recall could affect drivers in Los Angeles

Sadly, automobile recalls appear to have become fairly commonplace. It probably would not surprise Los Angeles residents that yet another one has arisen. Actually, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued three recalls for the same vehicles made by Hyundai and Kia.

The problem is that a cascade of events could cause the 1.6 liter engine to catch fire. So far, approximately 300 vehicles exhibited this issue. What may be surprising is that the problem became evident back in 2015 when the first recall was issued. Unfortunately, until now, the automakers have only made around 10 percent of the affected vehicles subject to that recall.

The vehicles affect approximately 500,000 vehicles here in the United States. The highest percentage of vehicles affected includes the 2012 through 2016 Kia Soul, which is one of the brand's SUV. Another of its sport utility vehicles, the 2011 to 2012 Kia Sportage is also included in the recalls. Around 152,000 2011 to 2013 Hyundai Tucson SUVs round out the recalls.

For approximately four years, unsuspecting vehicle owners may have been driving a ticking time bomb. While this is hardly the only recall threatening the lives of consumers, it is one that some want Congress to address since the Korean automakers refused to take care of the defects that could cause the fires. While advocacy groups and government agencies take on this battle, people's lives could continue to be in danger.

Los Angeles residents may be getting tired of hearing that their vehicles could cause them harm. Even if no one has suffered serious consequences related to this defective engine, it does not mean it will not happen at some point. Those who do suffer injuries as a result of a recalled vehicle may have legal options to pursue restitution for the damages they incur.