Kia America has issued a recall for more than 80,000 vehicles, including 2023-2025 Niro EV, Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), and Hybrid models. The recall is due to a problem with the floor wiring beneath the front passenger seat, which has the potential to become damaged and impede the proper deployment of airbags and seat belts. Additionally, the damaged wiring could result in unintended side curtain airbag deployment, posing a safety risk to vehicle occupants.
To address the issue, Kia dealers will conduct inspections and replace or reroute the floor wiring assembly as needed, at no cost to the owners. Furthermore, wiring covers will be installed to prevent future damage. Owners of the affected vehicles will receive notification letters in March detailing the recall and the necessary steps to remedy the situation.
This recall comes on the heels of another recent safety issue involving Hyundai and Kia electric vehicles. In November, over 208,000 electric vehicles were recalled to address a charging control unit problem that could lead to damage and subsequent issues with the 12-volt battery. The potential consequences included a loss of drive power, putting drivers at an increased risk of a crash.