Check your vehicle: Thousands of Kia Telluride SUVs recalled over potential seatbelt failure

Kia America has announced a significant safety recall affecting thousands of its newest sport utility vehicles after discovering a defect that could prevent drivers from using their seatbelts properly. The recall impacts more than 6,000 Kia Telluride and Telluride Hybrid models from the 2027 model year and comes after federal regulators identified a potential safety risk linked to faulty seatbelt components.

According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the issue involves the driver-side seatbelt emergency locking retractor (ELR), which may lock unexpectedly and prevent the seatbelt webbing from extending. If the seatbelt cannot be fastened, drivers may face an increased risk of injury in the event of a collision.

The recall highlights ongoing efforts by automakers and regulators to address vehicle safety concerns before they result in serious incidents.

Which Kia Vehicles Are Included in the Recall?

The recall affects approximately 6,264 vehicles, including both gasoline-powered and hybrid variants of the 2027 Kia Telluride.

According to Kia and NHTSA documents, the affected vehicles were manufactured between March and May 2026. The recall includes:

• 4,367 Kia Telluride Hybrid models manufactured between March 24 and May 12, 2026.
• 1,897 Kia Telluride gasoline models manufactured between March 24 and May 10, 2026.

Kia emphasised that no other Telluride model years or Kia vehicles are equipped with the defective seatbelt retractor involved in this recall.

What Is Causing the Seatbelt Problem?

Investigators traced the issue to an incorrect vehicle sensor installed in certain driver-side seatbelt assemblies by one of Kia’s suppliers.

The defective component may cause the emergency locking retractor mechanism to engage improperly. When this occurs, the seatbelt strap may fail to extend, making it impossible for a driver to buckle up normally.

Federal safety regulators noted that the defect causes affected vehicles to fall out of compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 209, which governs seatbelt assembly performance requirements.

While the issue is believed to affect only a small percentage of recalled vehicles, regulators determined that the potential safety consequences warranted immediate corrective action.

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Why the Recall Matters for Driver Safety

Seatbelts remain one of the most effective safety features in modern vehicles. They significantly reduce the risk of serious injury and death during crashes.

NHTSA stated that an unavailable occupant restraint system increases the likelihood of injury because drivers may be unable to secure themselves properly before operating the vehicle.

Even though the estimated defect rate is relatively low, a malfunctioning seatbelt can have severe consequences during an accident. This is why manufacturers are required to issue recalls whenever a safety-related defect is identified.

The recall serves as a reminder for vehicle owners to respond promptly to safety notices and schedule repairs as soon as they become available.

What Kia Owners Should Do Next

Owners of affected vehicles will be instructed to visit an authorized Kia dealership for inspection and repair.

Dealers will replace the driver-side seatbelt assembly free of charge. There will be no cost to vehicle owners for parts or labor associated with the recall.

Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) connected to the recall are expected to become searchable through the NHTSA recall database beginning June 16, 2026.

Kia plans to begin mailing official owner notification letters on July 31, 2026.

Drivers who believe their vehicle may be affected can also contact Kia customer service or check the NHTSA recall website once VIN information becomes available.

Kia’s Response to the Recall

Kia has moved quickly to address the issue after identifying the supplier-related defect. The automaker is working with dealers nationwide to ensure replacement seatbelt assemblies are available for affected customers.

The recall has been assigned identification number SC372 by Kia.

While there have been no reports indicating widespread injuries linked to the defect, the company is taking preventative action to ensure compliance with federal safety standards and maintain customer confidence.

As vehicle technology becomes increasingly complex, recalls related to individual components continue to play a critical role in maintaining road safety and protecting consumers.

For affected Telluride owners, the most important step is verifying whether their vehicle is included and arranging the free repair once notifications are issued.

FAQ

Why is Kia recalling the Telluride?

Kia is recalling certain 2027 Telluride and Telluride Hybrid vehicles because the driver-side seatbelt emergency locking retractor may lock unexpectedly and prevent the seatbelt from extending properly.

How many Kia Telluride vehicles are affected?

A total of 6,264 vehicles are included in the recall, consisting of both Telluride and Telluride Hybrid models manufactured between March and May 2026.

Which Kia Telluride model years are recalled?

The recall only affects specific 2027 Kia Telluride and 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid vehicles.

What is the seatbelt defect?

An incorrect vehicle sensor installed in some seatbelt assemblies may cause the emergency locking retractor to malfunction, preventing the seatbelt from extending for use.

Is the Kia Telluride recall dangerous?

The defect may increase the risk of injury during a crash because drivers may be unable to wear their seatbelt properly if the mechanism becomes locked.

How do I know if my Kia Telluride is recalled?

Owners can check their VIN on the NHTSA recall database beginning June 16, 2026, or contact Kia customer service for assistance.

Will Kia fix the recalled vehicles for free?

Yes. Kia dealers will replace the affected seatbelt assembly at no cost to owners.

When will Kia notify owners?

Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed starting July 31, 2026.

Are Kia Telluride Hybrid models included in the recall?

Yes. The recall includes 4,367 Telluride Hybrid models manufactured between March 24 and May 12, 2026.

Are other Kia vehicles affected?

No. Kia stated that no other Kia vehicles or Telluride model years are equipped with the defective retractor involved in this recall.

What is Recall Number SC372?

SC372 is Kia’s internal recall identification number assigned to this seatbelt safety campaign.

Can I continue driving my Kia Telluride?

Owners should monitor recall notifications and schedule repairs promptly. If a seatbelt cannot be extended or used properly, the vehicle should be inspected by a Kia dealer as soon as possible.

What caused the seatbelt issue?

The issue was traced to a supplier error involving an incorrect vehicle sensor installed in certain driver seatbelt assemblies.

Where can I check vehicle recalls?

Owners can search their VIN on the official NHTSA website or contact Kia customer service for recall verification and repair information.

Has Kia reported any injuries related to the recall?

As of the recall announcement, no widespread injuries connected to the defect had been reported. However, the recall was issued because of the potential safety risk.