Kia Sorento recalled over injury risk

Recall date

October 6, 2015

Source

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

Official notice title

Kia America, Inc. recalls 2011–2013 Kia Sorento

Recall number

15V626000

Brand / firm

Kia

Sold / distributed

Potentially affected: 377,062 units

Why it was recalled

Without requiring the brake to be pressed, the vehicle may be unintentionally shifted out of Park, allowing it to roll, which may result in a crash.

What was recalled

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Kia Sorento vehicles manufactured October 19, 2009, to January 31, 2013. In the affected vehicles, if excessive force is applied to the gear shift lever, the brake-shift interlock mechanism may chip or crack allowing the transmission being able to be shifted out of "Park" without the brakes being depressed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection."

What to do

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake-shift interlock mechanism, free of charge. The recall began on November 9, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC124.. Follow the official notice for full instructions.