Kia recalls some 2014-16 Souls for steering glitch

Kia is recalling 256,459 Soul subcompact crossovers in the U.S. for a problem that can lead to steering loss.

The automaker said in documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that the adhesive used to hold the steering pinion gear to the steering gear assembly might not be sufficiently strong.

That can lead to the pinion gear separating, which would cause a loss of steering capabilities.

The recall covers certain Soul and Soul EV crossovers from the 2014-16 model years. The affected crossovers were built between Jan. 18, 2014, and Sept. 30 of this year, Kia said.

No accidents or injuries related to the problem have been reported. Kia said it decided to recall the vehicles after conducting an investigation into five warranty claims.

Kia said owners will be notified beginning Dec. 22. The carmaker said dealers will replace the affected parts if necessary and will “install a set bolt for additional reinforcement” free of charge.

Kia has sold 124,929 Soul crossovers in the U.S. this year through October, down 1.1 percent from the same period in 2014. It is Kia’s second-most popular model in the U.S., behind the Optima four-door sedan.