Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain vehicles for a defect in the Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) which may result in airbags that do not deploy when the vehicle is in an accident. Air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
This recall only effects the following Kia models: 2017-2019 Sedona, Soul, Soul EV, 2017-2018 Forte, and 2017 Forte Koup vehicles
The Problem
Documents released by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration state that due to variances in the manufacturing of the Airbag Control Unit (ACU), contact between the ACU cover and the Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM) chip on the ACU’s Printed Circuit Board (PCB) may occur and cause damage to the EEPROM’s soldering joints resulting in an open circuit.
If this condition occurs, the Airbag Warning Light will illuminate with diagnostic trouble code B1620 and the vehicle’s airbags will not deploy in crashes where deployment is necessary, thereby increasing the risk of injury.
It’s estimated only 1% of Kia models are affected by the Airbag Control Unit (ACU) defect.
The Fix
Dealers will inspect the Airbag Control Unit, and either update the software or replace the unit as necessary. Recall repairs are always free of charge, but do have an expiration date.
Customer Recall Notifications
Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 21, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia’s number for this recall is SC226.
Kia Models Affected
The following Kia models are affected by this recall:
- 2017-2019 Sedona
- 2017-2019 Soul
- 2017-2019 Soul EV
- 2017-2018 Forte
- 2017 Forte Koup
Recall Details
- NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V031000
- Kia Recall Number: SC226
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: Aig Bags
- Potential Number of Units Affected: 410,619
Questions Regarding this Recall?
Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia’s number for this recall is SC226.
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Last Updated on January 29, 2022
Finder and reporter of automotive news & recalls. Emily is a professional writer who has covered various industries such as law, automotive, and mobility. She enjoys spending time with her family and improving her photography skills. While she loves writing, Emily’s true passion lies in helping others.
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