Kia is recalling more than 22,000 electric vehicles due to a lack of seats

Kia has issued a recall of more than 22,000 electric vehicles in the US due to a shortage of seat mounting bolts.

The recall affects 22,883 Kia EV9 electric vehicles from the 2024-25 model year. The company says some of these vehicles are missing mounting bolts for the second and third row seats, and as a result “may not properly restrain the occupant during certain collisions, increasing the risk of injury.” Launched in 2023, the Kia EV9 is the manufacturer’s first three-row electric SUV.

Fortunately, it sounds like a disability doesn’t pose a risk unless you’re at risk first. Kia reports no injuries, crashes, fatalities or fires caused by the missing bolts, which are the result of an assembly worker’s error in South Korea.

However, Kia notes that customers may be able to hear their seats rattle or notice that their EV9 seats are not correct.

Notices will be sent to affected Kia owners starting Jan. 24. People who suspect that their vehicle may be included in the recall can contact Kia customer service. Owners of affected Kia EV9 vehicles will be advised to contact an authorized dealer to inspect all vehicle seat mounting bolts, replace any that are missing, and ensure they are properly tightened at no charge.