Kia recalls over 188,000 K5 vehicles in U.S. for airbag defect

Kia America Inc. said it will recall more than 188,000 K5 midsize sedans in the U.S. over side curtain airbags that were installed incorrectly, causing them to not deploy properly during a crash.

The recall covers certain 2021-23 K5 vehicles. The K5 was formerly called the Optima and received the new name in 2021. No injuries have been reported as a result of the defect, according to NHTSA.

The Kia North America Safety Office was made aware of the defect while investigating the steering assist after a crash involving a 2021 K5. During the inspection, the engineer noticed the driver's side curtain airbag may not have deployed properly, a document shows.

An investigation of a Georgia plant confirmed the airbags were installed improperly at the location, documents show.

Letters to vehicle owners were expected to be mailed by April 7. Dealers will inspect and reinstall the side curtain airbags as necessary or reimburse owners for repairs already made, NHTSA said.

It was not clear whether vehicles outside the U.S. were affected. A Kia spokesperson did not immediately respond to Automotive News' request for comment.