Hyundai and Kia Recall 9,500 SUVs for Brake Problem

South Korean automakers Hyundai and Kia are combined recalling about 9,500 vehicles to repair a brake component that may cause brake fluid to leak, impairing braking ability, according to federal safety officials.

The defect is caused by improperly machined rear brake calipers that may allow fluid to leak. The loss would trigger a warning light and result in spongy brake-pedal feel, increasing the risk of a crash, according to a notice posted on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website.

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The recall affects 1,783 Hyundai Santa Fe models, made from Sept. 28 to Nov. 25, and 7,697 Kia Sorento midsize sports-utility vehicles manufactured from Sept. 14 through Oct. 4. Both vehicles are from the 2011 model year. The Kia and Hyundai models are based on the same platform, and both are manufactured at Kia Motors' assembly plant in Georgia.

As part of the recall, dealers will inspect the rear calipers and replace them if necessary at no cost to vehicle owners.

Owners of affected vehicles will begin receiving notices this month, NHTSA said.