2020 Kia Telluride SUV
Mark Hogan | CNBC
Kia is recalling more than 427,000 Telluride SUVs due to a defect that could cause the cars to slide while parking.
According to documents released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the countershaft and right front driveshaft on some 2020-2024 Tellurides may not fully mesh. Over time, this can lead to “unintended vehicle movement” when the car is parked, increasing the potential risk of a collision.
NHTSA documents show that Kia America decided earlier this month to recall all 2020-2023 model years and select Tellurides for the 2024 model year. No injuries or crashes were reported at the time.
Improper assembly is suspected to be the cause of the axle meshing issue – the recall covers 2020 to 2024 Tellurides, which were built between January 9, 2019 and October 19, 2023. Kia America estimates that 1% of its vehicles are defective.
To fix the problem, dealers will update the electronic parking brake software on affected cars and replace any damaged countershafts free of charge, the recall document said. Owners who have incurred repair costs will also be reimbursed.
Meanwhile, drivers of affected Tellurides were instructed to manually activate the emergency brakes before exiting the vehicle. Drivers can also confirm whether their specific vehicle is included in this recall and find more information using the following features: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website and/or Kia’s Recall query platform.
Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed out on May 15, and dealer notification will begin a few days before.
The Associated Press contacted Irvine, Calif.-based Kia America on Sunday for further comment.
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