NHTSA recall 16V862000
Electrical System, Trailer Hitches · Kia America, Inc.
Details
What's wrong: The affected vehicles are equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness that, due to a malfunction of the tow hitch module, may result in the trailer brake lights being constantly illuminated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (fmvss) number 108, " lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."
Why it matters: If the trailer brake lights stay illuminated while being used, other drivers may be confused, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the trailer tow hitch harness, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2017.
Affected vehicles on MotorDeets
All model years NHTSA lists
2016 Kia Sorento, 2017 Kia Sorento, 2017 Kia Sportage.
Recalls can cover only some VINs. Check yours on NHTSA's official recall page for 16V862000.
Source: NHTSA recall records. Summary shortened; the official notice has the full text.