Kia Issues Major Recall for 100,000+ K5 Sedans Over Detaching Window Trim Hazard

Understanding the Kia K5 Recall: What Owners Need to Know

This marks the second recall for the K5 in recent months, following a June 2024 parking light issue affecting 82,200 vehicles. The current safety concern involves:

• Affected Models: 2023-2025 Kia K5 sedans (specific VIN range)
• Defect: Left and right rear window C-pillar trim pieces may loosen or detach
• Risk: Creates road debris hazard and potential crash risk for following vehicles
• NHTSA Recall Number: SC346 (Kia's internal designation)

Why This Recall Matters: The Safety Implications

Detaching trim pieces pose multiple dangers:

• Road Hazard: Falling parts can strike following vehicles, potentially causing windshield damage or evasive maneuvers
• Reduced Visibility: Partially detached trim may obstruct driver visibility
• Secondary Damage: Exposed areas could lead to water intrusion or wind noise issues
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How to Check if Your K5 is Affected

Kia will begin notifying owners by mail on September 26, but you can take proactive steps:

1. Locate your VIN: Found on the driver's side dashboard or door jamb
2. Check online: Visit the NHTSA recall website or Kia's official recall portal
3. Contact Kia: Call 800-333-4542 (mention recall SC346)

The Repair Process: What Dealers Will Do

Authorized Kia dealerships will perform the following service at no cost to owners:

• Inspect both rear C-pillar trim assemblies
• Replace any problematic trim components
• Verify proper installation and retention
• Service typically completes within 1-2 hours
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to drive my K5 before the repair?

While no immediate driving prohibition exists, Kia recommends scheduling service promptly if you notice any trim looseness or unusual wind noise from the rear windows.

What if my trim has already fallen off?

Contact your dealer immediately - they may prioritize your repair and can advise on temporary measures to prevent further damage.

Will this affect my vehicle's resale value?

Properly completed recalls generally don't negatively impact value, especially when documented in vehicle history reports.

Beyond the Recall: Maintaining Your K5

While addressing this safety issue, consider these maintenance tips for your K5:

• Regularly inspect all exterior trim pieces during car washes
• Address any unusual wind noises promptly
• Keep recall completion records with your service documents
• Stay informed about future service bulletins through Kia's owner portal
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How MotorVero Keeps You Informed

At MotorVero, we prioritize your safety with:

• 24/7 recall monitoring across all major manufacturers
• Direct manufacturer communications for verification
• Step-by-step repair process explanations
• Expert analysis of potential safety impacts

Bookmark this page for updates as Kia releases more information about this ongoing recall situation.

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