52 Vehicle Models Including Sorento R, Sportage, and Niro Plus Recalled for 102,169 Units

[Asia Economy Reporter Minyoung Kim] A recall will be conducted on about 92,000 Kia vehicles, including the Sorento R and Sportage, due to the possibility of fire caused by defects in the auxiliary heater connector and electrical wiring.

According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport on the 28th, the Sorento R, Kia's mid-size SUV, was found to have a risk of fire due to damage to the connector caused by insufficient durability of the electric auxiliary heater connector. The recall target includes 59,828 units produced between June 29, 2012, and August 21, 2014.

Additionally, the Sportage, Kia's compact SUV (produced between July 5, 2021, and May 25, 2022), was found to have a fire risk due to damage caused by interference between the wiring under the second-row seat frame and the wiring when folding the seat, as the electrical wiring under the second-row seat deviated from its normal path. The recall target is 29,687 units.

Also, in 3,078 units of Kia's small SUV Niro Plus, a software error in the airbag control device was found, which may cause the airbag not to deploy during a collision, potentially injuring occupants.

For 2,001 units of 20 models including the Audi A6 45 TFSI qu. Premium imported and sold by Volkswagen Group Korea (before sale), a software setting error in the advanced driver assistance system was identified, resulting in non-compliance with safety standards due to the rear camera off function being installed while the gear is in the reverse position.

Accordingly, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport plans to have the importer proceed with the recall first and impose fines later considering the correction rate. Non-compliance with safety standards is subject to fines.

Also, 2,421 units of two models including the Fusion imported and sold by Ford Sales Service Korea were found to have a potential safety risk due to damage caused by insufficient durability of the transmission lever bushing, which may prevent proper gear shifting while parked.

In 630 units of two models including the Expedition from the same company, a defect was found where the windshield wiper did not operate properly due to manufacturing defects in the front windshield wiper arm, impairing the driver's visibility during rain or snow.

For 278 units of two models including the Lexus NX350 h imported and sold by Toyota Motor Korea (including before sale), a software error in the lane-keeping assist device was identified, resulting in non-compliance with safety standards as the device does not operate properly when activated.

Regarding this recall, each manufacturer will notify vehicle owners of the correction method via mail and mobile text messages. If the vehicle owner repairs the defect at their own expense before the defect correction, they can apply for compensation of repair costs from the manufacturer.