Kia Recalls Telluride SUV to Fix Airbag Problem
The second-row side airbags may not deploy in a crash. Dealerships will fix the problem free of charge.
Kia is recalling nearly 32,000 Telluride SUVs from the 2023 model year because their second-row side airbags might not go off in a crash. This could increase the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
Due to a manufacturing error at a supplier, the wiring harness for the side airbag may be too short. Adjusting or folding the second-row seat may damage the wiring and cause the airbag not to deploy in a crash. If the wiring harness is damaged, drivers may also notice that the airbag warning light is illuminated on the vehicle’s dashboard.
Kia dealerships will inspect the wiring harness and, if it’s damaged, replace it with a part that’s the proper length. If the harness isn’t damaged, dealerships will secure the too-short wiring to make sure it doesn’t come into contact with the seat. As with all recall repairs, this fix is free of charge.
In documents provided to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Kia says it’s not aware of any situations where airbags didn’t deploy when they should have as a result of the problem. The automaker also says there have been no crashes or injuries related to this defect.
Learn more about car recalls at CR’s guide to recalls.
The Details
Vehicles recalled: Kia Telluride SUVs manufactured between Sept. 1, 2022, and Jan. 23, 2023.
The problem: A too-short airbag wiring harness may fail if it comes into contact with a moving second-row seat, causing the side airbags not to deploy in a crash.
The fix: Kia dealerships will either replace or secure the wiring harness, depending on whether it is damaged. The fix is free of charge.
How to contact the manufacturer: Owners may also call Kia at 800-333-4542. Kia will begin contacting them by mail starting on Feb. 28, 2023.
NHTSA campaign number: 23V035. Kia’s own number for this recall is SC262.
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.
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