Due to a potential break at the base of the trunk latch, which would make it impossible for the trunk to open from the inside, the South Korean automaker, Kia, is recalling nearly 320,000 Rio, Optima, Optima Hybrid, and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles.
According to the latest National Traffic Safety Administration, the recalled cars “Fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard requirements.” In addition, the report states that a person in the trunk “May become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.”
Owners will receive notification letters in the mail from Kia by October 19. The NHTSA advised customers to return their cars to Kia dealerships, where they would replace the trunk latch base subassembly at no cost.
The specified affected vehicles are as follows:
- 2016-2017 Rio
- 2016-2018 Optima
- 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid
- 2017-2018 Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles
Car owners can check USA TODAY’s automotive recall database or search NHTSA’s database for new recalls. The NHTSA website also allows you to search for recalls based on your vehicle identification number or VIN.
Call 1-800-333-4542 to reach Kia customer support. Kia’s recall number is SC278.
