In a distressing turn of events, Hyundai and Kia are facing significant delays in repairing vehicles that are at risk of catching fire. The recall, which was issued in September, affects a staggering 3.4 million vehicles in the United States. Owners have been advised to park their cars outdoors and away from buildings due to the potential fire hazard.

The recalls were prompted by incidents where brake fluid leaked onto the circuit boards of the vehicles' antilock braking systems, causing an electrical short and ignition of the fluid. The automakers have acknowledged that repairing most of the affected vehicles is unlikely to happen until June, approximately nine months after the recalls were announced. The companies attribute the delays to the massive number of vehicles involved.

Affected models include Hyundai's Santa Fe and Kia's Sportage, some of their top-selling models from 2010 to 2017. It is concerning that most of these vehicles remain on the road, unrepaired, putting owners, their families, and potentially others in danger of fires that could spread to nearby structures or vehicles.

Hyundai and Kia have assured owners that despite the ongoing risks, the vehicles are safe to drive. However, safety advocates argue that the repairs are taking longer than usual, with typical recalls being resolved within 10 weeks or less. If too much brake fluid leaks, it could impair the vehicles' stopping ability, further exacerbating the safety concerns.

This latest round of recalls adds to the woes of Hyundai and Kia, as they have already faced several recalls for engine fire-related issues, totaling to a staggering 13 million vehicles since 2010. Safety advocates are mystified as to why it is taking so long to obtain the necessary replacement fuses, with some questioning whether the companies are trying to save money by not addressing the fluid leaks adequately.

Critics also question the role of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which has yet to enforce repairs for the ongoing leaks. The agency claims to be monitoring the effectiveness of the recalls and working with the automakers to ensure the highest level of safety.

Both Hyundai and Kia have stated that dealers will fix any brake fluid leaks found during inspections. They have also emphasized the high priority of the recall and are working with multiple suppliers to speed up the production of replacement fuses. However, according to the schedule submitted by Hyundai to the government, owners will not begin receiving repair notices until April 22nd, with some Kia owners not receiving them until late June.

Since September, more than 500 owners have filed complaints with the NHTSA, expressing frustration about the lengthy repair process. Several owners have called for the provision of loaner vehicles or expedited repairs. While the automakers claim that fires are rare, safety advocates argue that it is irresponsible to declare the vehicles safe when the potential for fires exists.

Owners of the affected vehicles are strongly urged to seek loaner cars for their safety. The delays in repairs have left many feeling anxious and fearful, leading some to trade in their Hyundai or Kia vehicles for other brands. The slow progress, coupled with the threat of theft due to the absence of theft-deterrent devices on these vehicles, has added additional burdens to affected owners.

The Center for Auto Safety and concerned owners continue to urge Hyundai and Kia to expedite the repairs to ensure the safety of owners, their families, and other road users. The NHTSA's role in monitoring and enforcing these recalls remains under scrutiny, as owners seek prompt resolution to the fire hazard issue.