The problem
Certain mini vans fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 209, "Seat belt assemblies." The second and third seat belt buckle anchor bolts do not comply with the standards.
The risk
In the event of a vehicle crash, the occupant may not be properly restrained.
The fix
Dealers will replace the seat belt buckle anchor bolts. Owner notification began february 24, 2003. 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.
Contacts
Kia's recall number is sc023. Customers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
What to do
- Check your VIN. Enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls - it shows whether this recall applies to your vehicle and whether the repair has been done.
- Call a dealer. Any authorized Kia dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 03V017000.
- Ask about parts and a loaner. If parts aren't available yet, ask what to do in the meantime.
- Keep your paperwork. If you paid for this repair before the recall, you may be able to get reimbursed - here's how.