Kia recalls over 80,000 Niros due to airbag deployment issue

Kia is recalling 80,255 Niro crossovers to check for damaged wiring that could interfere with the operation of airbags.

The recall encompasses all three powertrain varieties—hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric—from model years 2023 to 2025. The recalled vehicles all have manually-adjusted front passenger seats as well. Improper routing of a wiring assembly under the seat could lead to damage when the seat is slid forward or backward, according to the NHTSA.

Damaged wiring could result in airbags and/or seatbelt pre-tensioners failing to deploy during a crash, inadvertent deployment of side airbags, and the inability to deactivate the passenger-side front airbag when a child or underweight occupant is in the seat. Drivers may see an illuminated airbag warning light on the dashboard if any issues with the wiring occur, the NHTSA said.

Kia told the NHTSA that it is aware of two warranty claims related to this issue, but no crashes or injuries.

The remedy starts with inspection of the wiring assembly on the front passenger seat in affected vehicles. Technicians will replace any damaged wiring, as well as add more protective covering and reposition the wires to help prevent any damage in the future. All of this work will be performed at dealerships free of charge. Kia will also reimburse owners for any repair costs they’ve already paid out of their own pockets.

Owners will be notified by mail starting Mar. 14, but can also call Kia’s customer service department at 1-800-333-4542 for more information. Kia’s reference number for this recall is SC332.

The current-generation Kia Niro was introduced for the 2023 model year, donning more expressive styling while keeping the trifecta of electrified powertrains offered with the previous generation. It’s one of several small cars in Kia’s lineup, but stands out as the entry-level offering for each of its available powertrain types.