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    Kia Borrego SUVs Recalled to Fix Dangerous Airbags

    Metal parts could hit vehicle occupants if the side airbags deploy

    2009 Kia Borrego Limited for SEMA
    2009 Kia Borrego Limited
    Photo: Kia

    Kia is recalling nearly 23,000 Borrego SUVs from the 2009 model year because a metal part could detach and injure occupants if the side airbags deploy in a crash. The recall also includes later Borrego models that were sold only in U.S. territories.

    More On Car Recalls

    The problem has to do with an improperly attached headliner plate, a bracket that attaches a fabric interior trim piece to the inside of the vehicle’s roof. According to documents Kia provided to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the automaker found that not enough adhesive was used during the production process to securely attach the part. Kia began investigating the Borrego after reports of faulty headliner plates on the Kia Optima sedan, which was recalled last year for this problem.

    Kia says there has been one complaint of a Borrego’s headliner plate detaching without any injuries. But the driver of a 2012 Kia Optima was injured when a headliner plate detached in a crash, according to documents provided to the NHTSA by Kia.

    Kia dealerships will properly secure the headliner plates free of charge.

    Kia Borrego Recall Details

    Vehicles recalled: Kia Borrego SUVs manufactured between May 2, 2008, and Jan. 20, 2009.

    The problem: An improperly attached headliner plate could detach during a crash in which the side airbags deploy. If this happens, it could injure vehicle occupants.

    The fix: Kia dealerships will secure the headliner plates free of charge. 

    How to contact the manufacturer: Owners may call Kia at 800-333-4542.

    NHTSA campaign number: 23V692. Kia’s own number for this recall is SC286.

    Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any open 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.

    Stay informed about recalls that might affect your vehicle by using our Car Recall Tracker. Create a free account now to become a CR member.


    Keith Barry

    Keith Barry has been an auto reporter at Consumer Reports since 2018. He focuses on safety, technology, and the environmental impact of cars. Previously, he led home and appliance coverage at Reviewed; reported on cars for USA Today, Wired, and Car & Driver; and wrote for other publications as well. Keith earned a master’s degree in public health from Tufts University. Follow him on BlueSky @itskeithbarry.bsky.social.