Kia Motors America will be conducting a voluntary recall on two of their vehicles for the same issue. Simply due to a lack of strength, the clock spring contact assembly for the driver’s side air bag supplemental restraint system can wear prematurely. If it becomes damaged enough, a high resistance can occur in the air bag electrical circuit. With an unbalanced circuit, there is a high possibility that the front air bags would not deploy in the event of a crash.
The two Kias at risk are 2006 through 2008 model year Optima midsize sedans and 2007 through 2008 Rondo people-movers. Optimas affected were built between September 29, 2005 through January 29, 2008. If manufactured between September 13, 2006 and March 21, 2008, a Rondo could have the faulty air bag. According the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Kia will be recalling approximately 145,755 vehicles. When the notifications begin in March 2012, owners will be instructed to take their Rondo and or Optima to a certified dealer for the remedy. The air bag clock spring contact assembly will be replaced at no extra cost to drivers.
Source: NHTSA
