Kia EV9 2025–2026 recalled for occupant detection system air bag failure
What this means
Certain 2025–2026 Kia EV9 vehicles have a wiring problem in the Occupant Detection System that may prevent the front passenger air bag from turning off when a child or child seat is present. If the air bag deploys in a crash, a child in the front seat could be seriously injured.
- Check if your vehicle is affected using your VIN on NHTSA.gov starting September 4, 2026.
- Contact Kia Customer Service at 1-800-333-4542 to schedule a free inspection and repair.
- Do not place a child in the front passenger seat until the system is repaired.
The agency's original wording
A child in the front seat may be at a greater risk of injury if the air bag deploys during a crash.
Dealers will inspect and replace the ODS mat and bladder tube with a new one and ensure proper routing as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters will be mailed beginning October 20, 2026. Owners may contact Kia Customer Service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC379. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on September 4, 2026.
Official notice
https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V545000Want us to check the next one for you?
We read every CPSC, FDA, USDA, and NHTSA notice and email you a plain-English Sunday brief covering drivers — free, no credit card. Or upgrade to as-it-happens alerts for the brands you actually own.