Kia Recalls Over 80,000 U.S. Cars Due To Airbag Issue

Kia is recalling more than 80,000 vehicles in the U.S. over a wiring defect beneath the front passenger seat that may prevent airbags and seat belts from deploying properly, The Associated Press (AP) reported the recall.

The recall affects 80,255 Niro EV, Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), and Hybrid models from 2023 to 2025. I Photo: KIA

The defect can also cause unintended deployment of side curtain airbags, according to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The recall affects 80,255 Niro EV, Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), and Hybrid models from 2023 to 2025, CNN reported.

Dealers will inspect, replace, and reroute the floor wiring assembly as needed at no cost to owners. Wiring covers will also be installed to prevent future issues. Kia will notify owners via letters mailed in March.

This recall follows a similar issue in November when Hyundai and Kia recalled over 208,000 electric vehicles to address a defective transistor in a charging control unit that could fail, potentially causing loss of drive power and increasing crash risks.