Automotive
Kia is issuing a recall affecting 80,225 Niro models in the United States due to concerns over airbag safety. The recall includes 2023–2025 Kia Niro EV, Niro Hybrid, and Niro Plug-in Hybrid vehicles, with the problem stemming from potential damage to the floor wiring assembly beneath the front passenger seat. This issue could lead to airbags deploying unexpectedly while driving or failing to deploy during a collision.
What’s the Problem?
The root cause lies in the floor wiring assembly underneath the front passenger seat, specifically in vehicles equipped with a manual seat adjustment. Over time, repeated seat adjustments may damage the wiring harness, potentially causing several issues:
- The front passenger airbag may not deploy during a crash.
- The airbag could deploy unintentionally while driving.
- Safety systems, like the seatbelt pre-tensioner or the ability to disable the passenger airbag for child seat use, may fail to function properly.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) warns that such issues pose serious safety risks to both drivers and passengers.
Affected Vehicles
The recall impacts three variants of the Kia Niro lineup:
- Niro EV (21,909 units): Built from August 10, 2022, to December 13, 2024.
- Niro Hybrid (49,535 units): Manufactured between June 21, 2022, and December 17, 2024.
- Niro Plug-in Hybrid (8,811 units): Assembled from July 11, 2022, to December 16, 2024.
This recall is the largest of its kind for the current Niro generation, eclipsing two prior recalls that affected smaller batches of the Niro EV, including issues with improperly tightened differential bolts and heat-treated drive shafts.
How Kia Will Address the Issue
To resolve the problem, Kia dealerships will inspect the affected wiring assembly and replace it if necessary. Dealers will also reroute the harness and add protective coverings to prevent future damage. These repairs will be performed free of charge.
Owners of affected vehicles should expect to receive official notification from Kia starting in February 2025. In the meantime, they can contact Kia customer service or the NHTSA for more information.
A Recurring Theme for the Niro?
While the Kia Niro lineup has earned praise for its efficiency and electrified options, this marks the third recall for the latest generation of these vehicles. Although the previous recalls were minor in scale, this widespread campaign highlights the challenges automakers face in ensuring reliability in increasingly complex systems.
What Should Owners Do?
If you own a 2023–2025 Kia Niro EV, Hybrid, or Plug-in Hybrid with a manual front passenger seat, check your VIN on the NHTSA website or contact your local Kia dealer to determine if your vehicle is affected. Scheduling an inspection promptly is crucial to ensure your safety and prevent further complications.
As automakers push the boundaries of technology and electrification, addressing these safety issues with speed and transparency is vital for maintaining consumer trust. For Kia, resolving this recall efficiently will be key in protecting its reputation in the competitive EV and hybrid market.
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