Kia Recalls EV9 and Niro EV Models Due to Gear Drive Unit Issue

Kia has issued a recall for select EV9 and Niro EV models in the United States, affecting a total of 8 vehicles. The recall is related to a potential issue with the differential gear bolts in the Gear Drive Unit (GDU) of these all-electric SUVs.

Recall Details

The recall notice, issued through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), states that the differential gear bolts in the GDU may not have been properly torqued during assembly. This could lead to the bolts loosening and causing damage to the GDU housing and/or reduction gear while driving.

Owners of the impacted vehicles may experience a grinding noise while driving if the GDU housing or reduction gear is damaged, potentially resulting in a loss of power and a locked-up differential.

Affected Models

The recall affects 4 Niro EV and 4 EV9 models. The Niro EVs were manufactured between November 7, 2022, and May 16, 2023, while the EV9s involved were built between October 27, 2023, and December 14, 2023.

Next Steps for Owners

Owners of the affected vehicles will receive notification by mail and are advised to bring their EV to a Kia dealer for a free replacement of the gear drive unit. Kia will also reimburse any owners who have previously paid for repairs related to this issue.

Other Recalls

This recall is not the only recent one affecting Kia’s EV lineup. Last month, Kia, Hyundai, and Genesis issued a recall for most of their e-GMP platform-based EVs in the U.S. due to potential issues with the integrated charging control unit.