Kia, the popular car manufacturer, has recently issued a recall for over 427,000 of its Telluride SUVs due to a potentially dangerous defect. The issue revolves around the intermediate shaft and right front driveshaft of certain 2020–2024 Tellurides, which may not be fully engaged. This can result in unintended vehicle movement while the cars are in park, leading to an increased risk of accidents.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) published documents highlighting the problem and alerting consumers to the potential dangers. Kia America made the decision to recall all affected Telluride models earlier this month, covering the 2020–2023 model years and select 2024 model year vehicles. It is important to note that no injuries or crashes have been reported thus far.
The cause of the defect is believed to be improper assembly during manufacturing. The recall encompasses Tellurides that were produced between January 9, 2019, and October 19, 2023. Kia America estimates that approximately 1 percent of these vehicles have the defect.
To address the issue, Kia dealerships will update the electronic parking brake software on the affected cars and replace any damaged intermediate shafts at no cost to the owners. Those who have already incurred repair expenses will also be reimbursed. In the meantime, drivers of the impacted Tellurides are advised to manually engage the emergency brake before exiting the vehicle. Additionally, they can use the NHTSA site or Kia’s recall lookup platform to confirm if their specific vehicle is included in the recall and find more information.
Owner notification letters will be sent out on May 15, with dealer notification starting a few days prior. This proactive approach by Kia demonstrates their commitment to ensuring customer safety and addressing any potential issues promptly.
The Associated Press reached out to Kia America for further comment on this matter, but as of now, no additional information has been provided.
It is crucial for Telluride owners to take this recall seriously and follow the instructions provided by Kia. By taking the necessary precautions and having the required repairs done, they can ensure the safety of themselves, their passengers, and other road users. Kia’s prompt response to the issue and their willingness to cover repair costs are commendable, emphasizing their commitment to customer satisfaction and safety.
In conclusion, Kia’s recall of over 427,000 Telluride SUVs due to a rollaway hazard is a significant development in the automotive industry. The defect in the intermediate shaft and right front driveshaft could potentially lead to unintended vehicle movement while parked. However, Kia’s proactive approach in addressing the issue by offering free repairs and reimbursement for previous expenses showcases their dedication to customer safety. Telluride owners should promptly respond to the recall and take the necessary precautions to prevent any accidents or injuries.
