Kia Sorento recalled over injury risk

Recall date

November 30, 2016

Source

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

Official notice title

Kia America, Inc. recalls 2016–2017 Kia Sorento, Sportage

Recall number

16V862000

Brand / firm

Kia

Sold / distributed

Potentially affected: 10,212 units

Why it was recalled

If the trailer brake lights stay illuminated while being used, other drivers may be confused, increasing the risk of a crash.

What was recalled

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Sorento vehicles manufactured October 27, 2014, to August 25, 2016, and 2017 Sportage vehicles manufactured December 10, 2015, to August 26, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness that, due to a malfunction of the tow hitch module, may result in the trailer brake lights being constantly illuminated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

What to do

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the trailer tow hitch harness, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC142.. Follow the official notice for full instructions.