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Kia Sorento steering column may separate from the car

NHTSA campaign 18V656000 · Reported 2018-09-21 · Kia Motors America

critical How serious is it? About this label

This is one of the most serious kinds of defect because losing steering can cause a crash with no warning, and while Kia does not tell owners to stop driving, you should get it inspected and repaired as soon as you possibly can.

What's wrong, in plain English

A metal support bar behind the dashboard connects to your steering column. On some 2018 Sorentos, that bar was not welded correctly at the factory. If the weld gives way, the steering column can come apart from the car. When that happens, you lose the ability to steer, so turning the wheel would no longer point the front tires. Kia dealers will replace the support bar at no cost to you.

What you should do

1. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm your Sorento is included in recall 18V656000.
2. Call your Kia dealer now and ask for recall SC167, or reach Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542.
3. Have the dealer replace the cowl crossbar; the repair is completely free.

Affected vehicles (1)

Who to contact

Kia — official Kia recall lookup

Customer service: 1-800-333-4542

Any franchised dealer for the brand can do the repair. Phone numbers are taken from manufacturer sites and recent NHTSA notices; if one has changed, the number in your own recall letter is the one to use.

The bigger picture

Official notice

Component
STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
Summary
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles. The cowl crossbar that connects to the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) steering column may be improperly welded, allowing the steering column to separate.
Safety risk
If the steering column separates, it can cause a loss of steering ability, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the cowl crossbar, free of charge. The recall began October 26, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC167.

Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov. Recall repairs are free of charge by law.