Kia Sedona, Soul, and Forte Cars and Minivans Are Recalled for Airbags That Might Not Deploy
More than 410,000 models will need a free fix
Kia is recalling more than 410,000 cars and minivans because their airbags might not deploy in a crash. Owners of 2017-2019 Kia Sedona minivans, 2017-2019 Soul and Soul EV hatchbacks, and 2017-2018 Forte sedans and coupes will need a repair from a Kia dealer. It will be done free of charge.
The problem is due to an electrical problem within the airbag control unit (ACU), which determines whether to deploy airbags in a crash. Drivers may notice that the airbag warning light is illuminated on the gauge cluster located behind the steering wheel.
There have been no crashes or injuries related to this recall, but there have been 13 customer complaints and 947 warranty claims, according to documentation Kia provided to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The Details
Vehicles recalled:
• Kia Soul hatchbacks manufactured between July 25, 2016, and Dec. 24, 2018.
• Kia Sedona minivans manufactured between July 12, 2016, and Jan. 10, 2019.
• Kia Soul EVs manufactured between May 18, 2017, and Sept. 28, 2018.
• Kia Forte sedans manufactured between March 2, 2017, and July 27, 2018.
• Kia Forte Koup coupes manufactured on Oct. 4 2016.
The problem: The cover of the airbag control unit might come in contact with a chip on the ACU’s printed circuit board, which could damage the electrical circuit. As a result, the vehicle’s airbags might deactivate and not deploy in a crash, which could cause serious injuries to occupants.
The fix: Kia dealerships will inspect the ACU and either update the vehicle’s software or replace the unit if necessary.
How to contact the manufacturer: Kia will begin notifying owners on March 21, 2022. Owners may also contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542.
NHTSA campaign number: 22V031. Kia’s own number for this recall is SC226.
Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall. NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any recalls that need to be addressed.
If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have one. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly.
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