20252026 kia ev9 recalled over passenger airbag defectKia America is issuing a safety recall for 21,290 units of its three-row EV9 electric crossover due to a faulty passenger sensing system.According to filings submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an improperly routed component in the Occupant Detection System (ODS) can prevent the front passenger airbag from automatically deactivating when a child or child safety seat is in the front seat.The defect means affected EV9s fail to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 208, which governs occupant crash protection.20252026 kia ev9 recalled over passenger airbag defectThe Defect and Safety RiskThe issue centers on the ODS mat and bladder tube. Due to improper routing during assembly, the bladder tube can become pinched or damaged when the front passenger seat height is adjusted.AdvertisementAdvertisementIf the tube is compromised, the ODS sensor may miscalculate the weight on the cushion. As a result, the vehicle may default to keeping the front airbag active even when an infant or young child is seated up front. If a crash occurs and the airbag deploys, the force of the inflation significantly increases the risk of severe injury or death to small passengers.Drivers might be alerted to the issue if the instrument panel displays an airbag warning light or sounds an unbelted passenger chime when the front seat is empty.20252026 kia ev9 recalled over passenger airbag defectThe Remedy and TimelineTo resolve the noncompliance, Kia dealers will inspect the ODS assembly on affected vehicles free of charge. Technicians will replace the ODS mat and bladder tube assembly where necessary and reroute the wiring to prevent future binding or pinching.Kia will begin mailing official notification letters to registered owners on October 20, 2026. VIN searches on the NHTSA recall database will become active starting September 4, 2026.AdvertisementAdvertisementOwners seeking additional details can contact Kia Customer Service at 1-800-333-4542, referencing internal recall code SC379, or check the NHTSA portal under campaign number 26V545000.Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletterhere.
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