NEW YORK (AP) — Kia is recalling more than 427,000 of its Telluride SUVs because of a defect that could allow the cars to roll when parked.
According to documents released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the front right intermediate shaft and driveshaft on certain 2020-2024 Tellurides may not be fully engaged. Over time, this can lead to “unintended vehicle movements” while cars are parked, increasing the potential risk of an accident.
Kia America has decided to recall all 2020-2023 model years and select the 2024 Tellurides, according to NHTSA documents. At the time, no injuries or accidents were reported.
Improper assembly is suspected to be the cause of the shaft engagement issue – the recall covering 2020-2024 Tellurides manufactured between January 9, 2019 and October 19, 2023. The vehicle was introduced in 2019 in as a 2020 model.
Kia America estimates that 1% have the defect. To remedy the problem, according to recall documents, dealers will update the electronic parking brake software of affected cars and replace any damaged intermediate shaft free of charge. Owners who have already incurred repair costs will also be reimbursed.
In the meantime, drivers of affected Tellurides are urged to manually engage the emergency brake before exiting the vehicle.
Drivers can also confirm whether their specific vehicle is included in this recall and find more information using the NHTSA site or Kia’s recall search platform.
Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed May 15, with dealer notification beginning a few days prior.
The Associated Press contacted Irvine-based Kia America on Sunday for further comment.
California Daily Newspapers
