Which car is most likely to catch fire? What the records show in 2025

There isn’t a single model that is universally “the most common car to catch fire.” Most vehicle fires involve older gasoline-powered cars and SUVs due to age, wear, and maintenance factors. In the U.S., Hyundai and Kia models from the 2010s have generated some of the largest fire-related recalls and high volumes of non‑crash fire complaints in recent years, according to federal safety data and consumer‑safety groups, but risk varies widely by model, age, condition, and whether recalls have been completed.

Why there’s no single “most common” model

“Most common” can mean either the absolute number of incidents or the rate of fires per vehicle. Those numbers are heavily influenced by how many of a model are on the road, how old they are, how far they’re driven, and how well they’ve been maintained. A widely sold, aging model can show more total fires simply because there are more of them in service, while a niche model could have a higher per‑vehicle rate but few incidents overall.

What the statistics say about car fires

U.S. fire departments respond to roughly 170,000 highway vehicle fires a year in recent National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) tallies. The majority are non‑crash fires linked to mechanical or electrical failures. Because internal‑combustion vehicles vastly outnumber hybrids and EVs—and many are older—most fires occur in gasoline vehicles. Federal data and insurer analyses indicate EVs see fewer fires on a per‑vehicle basis but can be harder to extinguish when they do burn; hybrids sometimes experience elevated risk in certain recalls because they combine high‑voltage and fuel systems. No dataset identifies one specific model as the global “most common” to catch fire.

Brands and models frequently linked to fire-related recalls in the past decade

The following examples reflect large, well-documented U.S. recall campaigns and investigation activity. Inclusion here does not mean a given vehicle will catch fire—recalls provide free fixes, and repaired vehicles are generally considered safe. The list highlights scope and visibility, not current, individual risk.

• Hyundai and Kia (various 2010s models): Multiple non‑crash fire issues led to several large recalls across the decade, including a 2023 “park outside” recall covering about 3.37 million vehicles over anti‑lock brake control module short‑circuit risks. Earlier engine-related campaigns and consumer‑safety group tallies documented thousands of non‑crash fire reports before remedies were applied.
• Chevrolet Bolt EV (2017–2022): GM recalled the entire production run to replace battery modules after a manufacturing defect created a fire risk when the cars were parked or charging. Incidents were relatively few in absolute terms but high‑profile; GM implemented software limits and hardware replacements.
• Ford (selected 2020s models): Recalls on Escape/Maverick/Corsair hybrids for engine compartment fire risks after engine issues, and separate “park outside” notices for some Expedition/Navigator SUVs over under‑hood electrical components. Most vehicles received software or hardware remedies.
• BMW (primarily 2006–2013 vehicles, recall expanded later): An engine crankcase ventilation heater electrical issue prompted recalls that ultimately covered hundreds of thousands of vehicles in the U.S., with guidance to park outside until repaired due to potential fire risk.
• Hyundai/Kia tow‑hitch harness modules (SUVs): Moisture intrusion into accessory hitch modules prompted 2022–2023 “park outside” advisories and recalls on several models until inspection and replacement could be completed.

These cases illustrate why “most common” is a moving target: large recalls can dominate the headlines for a period, but once remedied the residual risk declines. Over time, vehicle age and maintenance quality remain the dominant predictors of fire risk.

By powertrain: which types burn more often?

Because gasoline vehicles make up the bulk of the fleet, they account for most fires in absolute terms. Independent analyses of federal data and insurer claim frequencies suggest EVs experience fewer fires per registered vehicle than gasoline cars. Hybrids can appear higher in some comparisons due to the coexistence of high‑voltage components and traditional fuel systems, though results vary by model and recall history. Regardless of powertrain, manufacturing defects are addressed through recalls, and owner compliance with remedies substantially reduces risk.

What makes a car more likely to catch fire

The following factors commonly show up in investigations of non‑crash vehicle fires across makes and models.

• Advanced age and high mileage, which increase the odds of fluid leaks, brittle wiring, and insulation breakdown.
• Deferred maintenance, including ignoring oil or coolant leaks, worn belts, or dashboard warning lights.
• Fuel, oil, or power‑steering fluid leaks contacting hot exhaust or engine components.
• Poorly installed aftermarket electronics (remote starters, audio amplifiers, light kits) that overload circuits or lack proper fusing.
• Prior collision damage that compromised wiring harnesses or left chafing points under the hood.
• Debris buildup in the engine bay (leaves, nesting material) that can smolder near hot parts.
• Open recalls that haven’t been completed, especially those with “park outside” advisories.

Addressing these factors—through timely repairs, proper installations, and recall compliance—materially lowers the likelihood of a fire.

How to check your car and reduce risk

These steps help you determine whether your vehicle is part of a fire-related campaign and reduce everyday risk, regardless of make or model.

1. Check your VIN with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s recall lookup or your automaker’s website, and sign up for recall alerts.
2. Schedule recall repairs immediately; fire-related recalls and software updates are performed free of charge at franchised dealers.
3. Watch for warning signs—burning smells, visible smoke, new clicking from under the hood, or battery/charging and brake warning lights. If you see smoke or flames, pull over safely, shut off the vehicle, exit, move away, and call emergency services. Do not open the hood if fire is suspected.
4. Fix leaks and frayed wiring promptly, keep the engine bay clean of debris, and replace aging battery cables and corroded terminals.
5. Use professionals for aftermarket electronics and towing equipment, ensure proper fusing, and avoid overloading circuits.
6. For EVs and hybrids, follow charging guidance, use certified charging equipment, install home EVSE to code, and apply recommended software updates.
7. Heed any “park outside” advisories until the remedy is performed.
8. Consider carrying a small automotive fire extinguisher only if you’re trained; personal safety and distance are the priority.

Together, these actions minimize your exposure to the most common triggers of non‑crash fires and ensure you receive fixes quickly if your vehicle is recalled.

If you believe your car is part of a broader pattern

Report incidents to NHTSA’s vehicle safety portal and your automaker’s customer care line. Multiple owner reports can trigger investigations and expedited remedies. Your insurer and dealer service department should also document any fire‑related symptoms or damage.

Summary

No single model holds the title of “most common car to catch fire.” The majority of incidents involve older gasoline vehicles with mechanical or electrical faults. In the U.S., Hyundai and Kia vehicles from the 2010s have been associated with some of the largest fire-related recalls and many reported non‑crash fires, while other brands have faced targeted campaigns. The most effective steps for any owner are to check for recalls by VIN, complete repairs promptly, maintain the vehicle, and respond quickly to warning signs.

What is the most common cause of car fires?

The most common causes of car fires are fuel system leaks, where flammable liquids ignite from a spark or hot engine component, and electrical system failures, which can cause sparks from faulty wiring or components. Poor vehicle maintenance can lead to both of these issues, increasing the risk of a fire from damaged wires or leaking components. 
Causes of Car Fires

• Fuel System Leaks: Flammable liquids like gasoline can leak from damaged lines or components and contact a hot engine part or a spark, leading to ignition. 
• Electrical System Failures: Worn or damaged wiring, short circuits, or faulty components can create sparks or heat, igniting nearby materials. 
• Poor Maintenance: Neglecting regular maintenance can result in damaged electrical wires, leaky fuel lines, or engines that overheat, all of which are fire hazards. 
• Engine Overheating: Overheating can cause fluids to spill and come into contact with hot engine components or wires. 
• Car Accidents: A collision can cause damage to the fuel tank, fuel lines, or electrical systems, leading to leaks, sparks, and potential ignition of flammable liquids. 
• Catalytic Converter Issues: A damaged or improperly functioning catalytic converter can become extremely hot and pose a fire risk if it contacts foreign objects. 

Prevention

• Perform Regular Maintenance: Have your car inspected and serviced regularly to catch potential problems with the fuel and electrical systems. 
• Be Vigilant for Leaks: If you smell gasoline or see fluid leaks under your car, get it checked and fixed immediately. 
• Address Electrical Issues: Don’t ignore warning signs of electrical problems, such as flickering lights or other malfunctions. 

How likely is it for a car to catch on fire?

While not extremely common, car fires still happen with some frequency, with statistics varying by source and year, but generally indicating hundreds of thousands of incidents annually in the U.S.. Mechanical or electrical failures are the most frequent causes, with collisions accounting for a smaller percentage of fires but a higher number of fatalities. 
Frequency of Car Fires

• National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates Opens in new tabsuggest that annual vehicle fires average around 119,000 to 152,000 in the U.S. 
• Fire-related data Opens in new tabshows that vehicle fires account for about one in every eight reported fires and one in eight fire deaths. 

Causes of Vehicle Fires

• Mechanical or Electrical Failures Opens in new tabare the primary cause of most car fires, responsible for about two-thirds of incidents. 
• Collisions Opens in new tabcontribute to a smaller percentage of highway vehicle fires (about 4%) but are responsible for a disproportionately high number of deaths. 
• Fuel Leaks Opens in new tabare particularly dangerous, as a small number of fuel-related fires account for a larger portion of fire deaths. 

Key Takeaways

• Car fires are a significant, albeit not the most common, type of fire incident. 
• Preventive maintenance and addressing mechanical or electrical issues can reduce risk. 
• While less frequent, accident-related fires pose a greater risk of injury and death, according to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA). 

What car was notorious for catching fire?

The Pinto, a subcompact car made by Ford Motor Company, became infamous in the 1970s for bursting into flames if its gas tank was ruptured in a collision. The lawsuits brought by injured people and their survivors uncovered how the company rushed the Pinto through production and onto the market.

What car kept catching fire?

Since 2010 more than 3,100 Hyundai and Kia vehicles have caught fire, injuring 103 people and killing one, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the government agency investigating both automakers. These fires may be related to an engine design.