Vehicle Data Hub

Recall 16V-862

Kia Motors America recalled the 2016 to 2017 Kia Sorento and 1 other model: Trailer hitches; Electrical system.

At a glance

Campaign number
16V-862
Reported
November 30, 2016
Vehicles affected
10,212 estimated by the manufacturer

Source: NHTSA recall records

What is wrong

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."

The risk

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

The fix

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-[removed]. Kia's number for this recall is SC142.

Notes from the manufacturer

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-[removed] (TTY 1-[removed]), or go to [link removed]

Affected vehicles