Kia has announced a major recall of approximately 80,225 Niro electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid vehicles in the United States. The recall is due to a potential defect in the wiring harness located beneath the front passenger seat, which could be damaged during manual seat adjustments. This defect poses serious safety risks, including:
Airbag Deployment Issues: The front passenger airbag may fail to deploy during a collision or, in some cases, could deploy unexpectedly while driving.
Seatbelt Malfunction: The seatbelt pre-tensioner may not function properly, reducing its effectiveness during an accident.
Child Seat Safety Risks: The airbag’s inability to deactivate when using a child seat in the front passenger position may put young passengers at risk.
Affected Models
The recall impacts the following Kia Niro vehicles:
Niro EV (Electric): Models from 2023 to 2025, manufactured between August 10, 2022, and December 13, 2024.
Niro Hybrid: Models from 2023 to 2025, produced between June 21, 2022, and December 17, 2024.
Niro Plug-in Hybrid: Models from 2023 to 2025, built between July 11, 2022, and December 16, 2024.
Solution and Rectification
To address the issue, Kia dealers will inspect the wiring harness and replace it if necessary. The floor wiring harness will be rerouted and fitted with additional protective coverings to prevent future damage. This service will be provided free of charge to affected vehicle owners.
Safety History
This recall is the third for the current-generation Kia Niro EV, but it is the most extensive to date. Previous recalls addressed problems related to differential bolts and front drive shafts, though they were limited in scope compared to this issue.
Advice for Owners
Kia advises all owners of affected vehicles to contact their nearest authorized Kia dealership and schedule a service appointment immediately. Proactively addressing the issue will help ensure the safety of drivers, passengers, and other road users.
This recall highlights Kia’s commitment to addressing safety concerns promptly, emphasizing the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and manufacturer updates.