Door belt moldings and window garnish plates could detach, risking debris on the road. More than 301,000 Kia vehicles built for the American market are headed back to the dealership after federal regulators found that exterior trim pieces can loosen and fall off while driving.
The recall, announced in two National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) notices issued a week apart, covers 201,149 2023‑2025 Telluride SUVs and 100,063 2023‑2025 K5 sedans.
Why the new Kia recall matters for drivers nationwide right now
If a strip of molding flies off at highway speed, it can strike another car or startle a rider on a motorcycle. That, according to NHTSA, is reason enough to classify the defect as a safety hazard. Still, no crashes or injuries have been reported so far. So why the hurry? Because loose parts rarely give warning before they let go.
Detailed breakdown of affected Telluride and K5 model years and parts
Wondering whether your daily driver made the list? Check the table below before you panic.
| Model | Model years | Units included | Problem part |
|---|---|---|---|
| Telluride SUV | 2023‑2025 | 201,149 | Door belt molding trim |
| K5 sedan | 2023‑2025 | 100,063 | C‑pillar window garnish |
Both defects trace back to supplier quality issues that may allow clips to wear or fail under normal vibration.
What steps Kia owners should take before receiving the notification letter
NHTSA says notification letters will start dropping on September 26, but why wait?
- First, inspect the trim along the top edge of each door (Telluride) or around the rear side windows (K5).
- If anything feels loose, schedule a service visit with your local Kia retailer.
- Keep copies of all work orders; replacements will be done free of charge.
- After repairs, verify that all clips and fasteners are seated firmly.
Taking these precautions early could save you the hassle of chasing a missing trim strip down the interstate.
Potential road hazards posed by loose moldings and garnish plates explained briefly
Detached trim may sound trivial. However, a foot‑long aluminum strip tumbling across lanes can puncture tires, shatter windshields, or force sudden swerves. Consequently, acting promptly protects not only Kia owners but everyone sharing the roadway.
Conclusion
Kia’s latest recall shows how small components can carry outsized risks. Owners of 2023‑2025 Telluride and K5 models should watch their mailboxes, inspect their vehicles, and book a free fix as soon as possible. After all, a half‑hour service appointment beats an unexpected roadside surprise.