Kia has issued a recall for more than 80,000 vehicles in the United States due to problems with airbag deployment and faulty wiring. If you drive a Kia, this might affect you. Let us go over which models are impacted, the risks involved, and what you should do next to stay safe.
Which kia models are affected by the recall?
Kia’s recall affects specific models due to an issue with the floor wiring beneath the front passenger seat. These are the models you need to check:
- 2023-2024 Kia Seltos
- 2023 Kia Soul
- 2023 Kia Sportage
If you own any of these vehicles, it is important to act promptly to address the issue. Kia will notify owners through letters
What is the problem with kia’s airbags and wiring?
The recall focuses on two major concerns:
- Improper airbag deployment: Damaged floor wiring could prevent airbags and seat belts from deploying properly in a crash. This increases the risk of serious injury.
- Unintended airbag activation: The same wiring issue could cause the side curtain airbags to deploy unexpectedly, which could distract drivers and lead to accidents.
The faulty wiring creates significant safety risks for passengers and drivers alike, which is why Kia is taking steps to address the problem quickly.
How will Kia fix the issue?
Kia is offering a free fix for all affected vehicles. Here is what the repair process involves:
- Inspection: Dealers will inspect the floor wiring assembly to identify any damage.
- Replacement or rerouting: If the wiring is damaged, it will be replaced and rerouted to prevent future issues.
- Wiring covers: To add protection, dealers will install covers to safeguard the wiring from further damage.
All repairs will be done at no cost to the owner, so you do not have to worry about paying out of pocket for this recall.
How can you check if your kia is part of the recall?
If you are unsure whether your Kia is affected, there are a few simple ways to check:
- Visit the NHTSA website: Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Your VIN is usually located on the lower-left corner of your windshield or on your vehicle registration.
- Contact your dealer: Reach out to your Kia dealer and provide your VIN to confirm whether your car is part of the recall.
- Wait for Kia’s notification letter: Kia plans to send letters to affected owners in March.
Taking action sooner can help you avoid potential safety risks.
What should you do if your kia is affected?
If your vehicle is included in the recall, here are the steps you need to take:
- Schedule an appointment: Contact your Kia dealer to arrange a time for the repair.
- Do not delay: Driving a vehicle with faulty airbags or wiring can put you and your passengers at risk.
- Stay informed: Check for updates on Kia’s website or through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
If you are concerned about driving your vehicle before the repair is completed, you can discuss your options with your dealer.
Is this the first recall for kia?
No, Kia has had other recalls in recent months. For example, in November, Kia and its parent company, Hyundai, recalled over 208,000 electric vehicles due to a transistor issue in the charging control unit, which posed a risk of losing drive power.
While recalls can be frustrating, they are a crucial part of keeping drivers safe and ensuring vehicles meet safety standards.
Safety should always come first. If you own a Kia Seltos, Soul, or Sportage, now is the time to check if your car is affected by this recall. Taking action quickly can give you peace of mind and help keep everyone on the road safer.
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