Kia Is Recalling 410,000 Vehicles Because Air Bags Might Not Work In Crashes

Kia’s current recall of over 410,500 vehicles involves both software and hardware, with the potential for major safety consequences if airbags do not activate.

The Korean automaker said the air bag control computer cover can come in contact with a memory chip and damage the electrical circuit. That could stop the air bags from inflating.

Model-year 2017 Forte Koup coupes, model-year 2017-18 Forte sedans, model-year 2017-19 Sedona minivans, and model-year 2017-19 Soul and Soul EV hatchbacks are all at risk.

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The problem is with the airbag control unit cover, which may come into touch with a memory chip on the printed circuit board, causing the electrical circuit to be damaged.

Airbags may be deactivated as a result of circuit failure, allowing them to fail to deploy as intended in the case of a crash, increasing the risk of harm.

Dealers will inspect the computer and either update software or replace it.

Owners will be notified by mail starting March 21, the company said..

Kia stated in documents posted Friday by U.S. safety regulators that the problem surfaced in Korea last July. The company said it has 13 customer complaints and 947 warranty claims, but no crashes or injuries were reported.

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