Kia faces another blow to its reputation. The South Korean brand has announced a massive recall in the United States affecting more than 300,000 vehicles. The reason: a defect in the exterior moldings that could turn a simple plastic piece into a dangerous projectile.
The problem: pieces that come loose while driving
In some Kia Telluride and K5 (2023-2025), the side moldings on the doors and rear windows aren't properly secured.
At first glance, it seems like a minor detail, but the reality is that, when driving at high speed, these pieces can come off. Imagine driving on the highway and seeing a molding fly off toward another vehicle. It doesn't take a major crash to cause serious damage or even a multi-car accident.
Although Kia states there are no reports of injuries or accidents, the risk is clear. That's why the company has decided to act before a tragedy occurs.
The models and figures of the recall
This recall includes:
- Kia Telluride – 201,149 units.
- Kia K5 – 100,063 units.
In total, 301,212 cars will need to be inspected. NHTSA has already officially registered it under number 25V494000.
For Kia, this isn't an isolated problem. This year, the brand also recalled units of the EV9 electric SUV due to a failure in the seat anchors. This new case only increases the pressure on its quality control.
How the solution will work and when to act
Kia will begin notifying owners starting September 26, 2025. The steps to follow will be:
- Receive the notification letter.
- Go to the nearest official dealership.
- Inspect the moldings and replace them if necessary.
- The entire process will be free of charge.
Although the fix is simple, the logistical impact is enormous. Coordinating more than 300,000 inspections isn't an easy task. For drivers, it means losing time in travel and waiting, even if the cost doesn't come out of their pocket.
A reminder about the importance of details
This case is a clear example of how an apparently irrelevant component can become a safety risk. It's not just about large parts or complex mechanical systems: any element that can come off while moving is dangerous.
For Kia, the challenge isn't just to replace the moldings. It's also to regain public trust. The brand has set up the number 800-333-4542 so Telluride and K5 owners can confirm if their vehicle is affected.
If you have one of these models, it's best to check as soon as possible. Because, on the road, even a piece of plastic can make the difference between getting home or ending up in an accident.