Kia Motors Ireland is issuing a voluntarily recall for a limited number of Kia Sportage models.

Approximately 1100 Kia Sportage models are affected by the recall in Ireland to address an issue with a faulty batch of seatbelt pre-tensioners.The fault has been discovered through Kia’s regular monitoring of field data, which has determined that the driver’s seatbelt pre-tensioner on affected models may exert a diminished holding force on the belt due to a faulty piston within the retracting mechanism.

The recall affects Kia Sportage models manufactured in Slovakia between 7 October 2011 and 21 November 2012.

Kia Motors Ireland is not aware of any injuries sustained as a result of this problem and only those vehicles fitted with parts from a particular batch of components are affected.Kia Motors Ireland is notifying owners affected via mailed letter campaign, directing them to take their vehicle to the nearest Kia dealership where the driver’s seatbelt pre-tensioner will be inspected and, if necessary, replaced at no expense to the owner. Depending on the corrective action required, the estimated time required to repair a vehicle can range from approximately one to two hours.

Owners with questions may contact Kia Motors Ireland customer assistance at 01 4601288