Kia is recalling 80,255 Niro models because of a wiring issue that could interfere with the deployment of airbags.
The recall encompasses hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric versions of the Niro from model years 2023-2025 equipped with manually-adjusted front passenger seats. In the affected vehicles, the floor wiring assembly beneath the front passenger seat may become damaged by repeated sliding of the seat for fore and aft adjustment, according to the NHTSA.
2025 Kia Niro EV
Damaged wires could result in non-deployment of airbags and/or seatbelt pre-tensioners during a crash, inadvertent deployment of the passenger side airbag, and the inability to deactivate the front passenger airbag for a child or underweight seat occupant—increasing the risk of injury. If this condition occurs, drivers may see an illuminated airbag warning light on the dashboard.
Kia told the NHTSA that it is unaware of any crashes, injuries, fatalities, or fires related to this condition, which the automaker determined is due to incorrect routing of the wires under the front passenger seat.
2025 Kia Niro EV
The remedy is inspection and rerouting or, as necessary, replacement of the affected wires, which dealers will do free of charge. Kia expects to mail owner notification letters Mar. 14. Owners can also call Kia’s customer service department at 1-800-333-4542 or visit Kia’s recall site with any questions. Kia’s reference number for this recall is SC332.
This recall covers all model years of the current-generation Niro, which receives minor changes for 2025 and holds steady on pricing across all three powertrain options. It continues to offer up to 53 mpg combined in hybrid form, 33 miles of electric range in plug-in hybrid form, and 253 miles of range in all-electric form, while serving as Kia’s entry point for each powertrain type.
