Sunita Somvanshi
A faulty wire under your car’s passenger seat might seem minor, but in Kia’s latest recall, it could mean the difference between life-saving airbags working or failing when needed most. Kia America is recalling more than 80,000 Niro vehicles because of this critical safety issue.
“Air bags and seat belts that deploy improperly or an airbag deploying unintentionally can increase the risk of injury in a crash,” states the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This safety issue could be as serious as having non-working airbags or seat belts in an emergency.
The recall affects three types of Niro models made between August 10, 2022, and December 13, 2024: the fully electric Niro EV, the plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and the regular hybrid version. The problem? Every time someone adjusts the front passenger seat, it can damage important wiring underneath. This isn’t just about comfort – it’s about safety. That damaged wiring could prevent airbags from opening during a crash, make them deploy when they shouldn’t, or stop seat belts from working properly.
Here’s the good news: as of January 10, 2025, no one has been hurt because of this problem. No crashes, no injuries, and no fires have been reported. But Kia isn’t taking any chances with your safety.
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This isn’t Kia’s first recent safety concern. Just last November, they had to recall over 208,000 electric vehicles because of a different electrical problem that could make cars lose power while driving.
What’s being done about it? Starting in March, Kia will send letters to owners of affected vehicles. The fix is straightforward but important: take your car to any Kia dealer, and they’ll check the wiring. If needed, they’ll replace it, reroute it to a safer position, and add protective covers to prevent future damage. Best part? It won’t cost you anything.
The NHTSA recommends checking if your vehicle is affected by this recall. Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can help determine if your car needs this important safety fix.
For perspective, this recall isn’t just about following rules – it’s about making sure your car’s basic safety features work when you need them most. Modern cars rely heavily on electrical systems to keep passengers safe, and even a small wiring problem can affect these crucial safety features.
This safety measure requires attention when you receive your recall notice. Contact your local Kia dealer for any concerns about your vehicle’s safety systems.
