KIA Recalls by VIN

What is a KIA Recall?

When KIA notices a defect or safety issue in their vehicles, they immediately send out recalls as these defects, if left unattended to, can potentially harm drivers of defective vehicles, their passengers, and even other road users.

KIA Recalls are issued to fix the problem by either repairing, replacing, or refunding the vehicle if necessary. They help prevent accidents, injuries, and other issues that could arise from defects in the vehicle’s design or manufacturing process.

With a vehicle history check, you can view all pending recalls and ensure your KIA is up-to-date with the latest safety and performance updates.

Types of KIA Recalls

There are three main types of recalls you should know. They are grouped based on the severity of the defect and include the following:

• Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): These are issued to dealerships and mechanic shops but not directly to consumers. They simply alert mechanics and dealers about an anticipated increase in vehicle repairs. Most times, these do not involve serious safety issues.

• Voluntary Recalls: These are recalls issued when manufacturers spot problems with vehicle parts or components that could possibly affect the safety of the driver, passenger, and other road users. These recalls never expire, and repairs are often free.

• Mandatory Recalls: These recalls are less common and demanded by the NHTSA when a vehicle defect is discovered. Mandatory recalls require full disclosure by the manufacturer or parts manufacturer, and repairs are free.

Recalls can also be grouped based on the nature of the defect into:

• Safety recalls: These recalls fix problems that affect the safety of the vehicle, such as problems with the steering, fuel systems, airbags, etc.

• Non-safety recalls: These target issues that don’t directly impact safety, like air conditioners or radios.

How to Check KIA Recalls by VIN

Checking KIA recalls by VIN is easy. Here are the steps to follow to find out if a vehicle has any open recalls:

1. Enter your KIA VIN in the form above. You can also use the license plate number if you don’t have the VIN.
2. Click on ‘Search’ and select the vehicle history report option.
3. Complete the payment process to download or print your vehicle history report.

The report doesn’t just show the recall status but the history of the vehicle. This includes theft records, accident records, damages, ownership records, auction history, sales history, and more. 

What to Do if Your Vehicle is Affected by a Recall

If your KIA is affected by a recall, follow these steps to address the issue:

1. Review the Recall Notice: First, you need to take a good look at the notice and the parts affected. If the recall says “Do Not Drive” or “Park Outside” in the advisory section, it’s best to wait until the vehicle is fixed before driving.
2. Schedule a Repair Appointment: Next, you should contact a local authorized KIA dealership to schedule a convenient time for your vehicle to be inspected and repaired. Most recall repairs are free, and the process is generally straightforward.
3. Follow Up if Necessary: After your vehicle has been fixed, if you experience any issues afterward or probably have further questions, don’t hesitate to contact the dealership or manufacturer. They are responsible for your safety and will make sure you’re properly attended to.

Fun Facts on KIA Recalls

• Kia recalled 137,256 Seltos and Soul models from 2021 to 2023, including 53,635 Seltos and 83,621 Soul vehicles, due to a potentially defective piston ring issue.

• A recall affecting 80,255 Kia Niro EV, Plug-in Hybrid, and Hybrid vehicles from 2023-2025 was issued due to floor wiring assembly issues that could affect airbag and seatbelt deployment.

• Kia recalled 74,469 vehicles, including 2024-2025 Sorento and 2025 Sorento Hybrid/Plug-In Hybrid models, for a software error that could cause loss of headlights and taillights.

• 12,400 Kia EV9 vehicles from 2024 were recalled due to a software error affecting the remote smart parking assist feature.

• Kia issued a "park outside" recall for 462,869 Telluride vehicles from the 2020-2024 model years due to a fire risk caused by potential overheating of the front power seat motor.