- Over 300,000 Kia vehicles are recalled due to defective trim parts.
- The issue is caused by insufficient adhesive application during manufacturing.
- Owners should verify their vehicle’s recall status and schedule a free inspection and repair.
- Kia will reimburse owners for prior repairs related to this issue.
Kia America has issued a recall affecting over 300,000 vehicles in the United States due to a safety concern involving faulty trim components. The recall encompasses 201,149 Telluride SUVs and 100,063 K5 sedans from the 2023 to 2025 model years. The issue centers on exterior trim pieces that may detach while driving, posing a potential road hazard. This article provides an overview of the recall, its implications, and steps for affected vehicle owners.
Understanding the Recall
The recall addresses defects in the door belt molding trim of the 2023–2025 Kia Telluride SUVs and the C-pillar garnish face plates of the 2023–2025 Kia K5 sedans. These components may delaminate and detach from the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash if they fall onto the roadway. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has classified these issues as safety defects, prompting the recall.
Cause of the Defect
Kia attributes the trim detachment to an insufficient application of adhesive during manufacturing. This quality control issue has led to the delamination of the trim pieces. The supplier responsible for the adhesive application has been identified as Keumgang Chemical, based in South Korea.
Implications for Vehicle Owners
Owners of affected vehicles are advised to have their vehicles inspected and repaired at no cost. Kia dealers will replace the faulty trim components with improved versions that include both adhesive and mechanical retention features to prevent future detachment. Additionally, Kia will reimburse owners for any prior repairs related to this issue.
How to Check if Your Vehicle Is Affected
Vehicle owners can determine if their Kia is part of the recall by visiting the NHTSA recall website and entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Owners can also contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542 and reference recall numbers SC347 for the Telluride and SC346 for the K5.
Steps for Affected Owners
- Verify Recall Status: Use the NHTSA recall website or contact Kia customer service to confirm if your vehicle is affected.New York Post
- Schedule an Inspection: Contact your local Kia dealership to arrange for a free inspection and replacement of the faulty trim components.
- Keep Documentation: Retain receipts for any previous repairs related to this issue, as Kia will reimburse owners for such expenses.
Conclusion
Kia’s recall of over 300,000 vehicles underscores the importance of quality control in automotive manufacturing. Affected vehicle owners should promptly verify their vehicle’s recall status and arrange for necessary repairs to ensure their safety and compliance with the recall. By taking these steps, owners can mitigate potential risks associated with the defective trim components.
