NHTSA recall 02V-216 (02V216000)

seat belts recall reported August 16, 2002 - about 189,706 vehicles affected.

NHTSA campaign number: 02V216000
Also written as: 02V-216
Manufacturer number: SC027
Reported: August 16, 2002
Vehicles affected: ~189,706
Component: seat belts

What is being recalled

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE SAFETY BELT BUCKLE MAY "FALSE LATCH" AND EXPOSE THE DRIVER TO UNRESTRAINED MOVEMENT DURING A CRASH.

Why it is dangerous

IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.

The fix (free at any franchised dealer)

OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN DECEMBER 20, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.

Recall repairs are always free, regardless of vehicle age or where you bought the car. Quote the campaign number 02V-216 when calling a dealer.

Affected 2 models

Kia Sephia - 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998

Kia Sportage - 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998

Each year links to that car's full history: every recall, owner complaints and common problems.

Is YOUR car included? A campaign rarely covers every single vehicle of a model year. Check your exact car by its 17-character VIN with the free VIN decoder and recall check.

Source: NHTSA recall campaign data (public domain), refreshed weekly. See also the latest recall campaigns.