Kia Recalls Tens Of Thousands Of Electric And Hybrid Vehicles For Airbag Deployment Issue

Kia recalls Sorento SUVs over detaching airbag warning labels

Kia Recalls Tens of Thousands of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles for Airbag Deployment Issue

Kia is recalling tens of thousands of electric and hybrid vehicles due to a potential issue with the airbag control unit that could cause the airbags to deploy inadvertently. The recall affects the following models:

2023 Kia EV6
2023 Kia Niro EV
2023 Kia Niro Hybrid
2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid

The issue is caused by a software error in the airbag control unit that could interpret certain electrical signals as a crash, leading to the deployment of the airbags. Kia has not reported any accidents or injuries related to this issue.

Scope of the Recall

The recall affects approximately 49,000 vehicles in the United States and 1,800 vehicles in Canada. Kia will begin notifying affected owners by mail starting in May 2023. Owners can also check if their vehicle is affected by visiting Kia's website or calling the company's customer service line.

Fixing the Issue

Kia dealers will update the airbag control unit software on affected vehicles free of charge. The update will take approximately one hour to complete.

Potential Risks

If the airbag control unit software error occurs while the vehicle is in motion, it could lead to the inadvertent deployment of the airbags. This could startle the driver and cause them to lose control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Kia's Response

Kia is taking this recall seriously and urges affected owners to have their vehicles repaired as soon as possible. The company is working with its dealers to ensure that all affected vehicles are repaired quickly and efficiently.

Consumer Advice

If you own one of the affected Kia models, please contact your local Kia dealer to schedule an appointment for the airbag control unit software update. Do not drive your vehicle if you believe that the airbag control unit software error may have occurred.

Conclusion

The Kia airbag recall is a serious issue that could potentially affect thousands of vehicles. While Kia has not reported any accidents or injuries related to this issue, it is important for affected owners to have their vehicles repaired as soon as possible to eliminate the risk of an inadvertent airbag deployment.