2016–2017 Kia Sorento, Sportage recall: Trailer hitches
Recall at a glance
- Campaign number
- 16V862000
- Reported
- November 30, 2016
- Manufacturer
- Kia America, Inc.
- Part
- Trailer hitches
- Vehicles affected
- About 10,212
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."
Safety 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 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC142.
Affected models
Model years listed by NHTSA for this campaign. Only vehicles within the build range in the notice are affected.
Notes from the notice
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Frequently asked questions
Which vehicles are affected by this recall?
Kia Sorento (2016, 2017); Kia Sportage (2017). Check your VIN to confirm.
What is the safety risk?
If the trailer brake lights stay illuminated while being used, other drivers may be confused, increasing the risk of a crash.
What is 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 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC142.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall data for passenger vehicles, recalls since 2013, shown as published. This site is independent and not affiliated with NHTSA or any manufacturer. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and follow your manufacturer’s notice. Terms and disclaimer.