Recall 05V431000: Occupant Classification System Defect

MAKE/MODELS: MODEL/BUILD YEARS:

KIA/LD Spectra 2004-2005

MANUFACTURER: KIA Motors America, Inc.

NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 05V431000 MFG'S REPORT DATE: September 20, 2005

COMPONENT: Air Bags

POTENTIAL NUMBER OF UNITS AFFECTED: 73641

SUMMARY:
On certain vehicles equipped with an advanced air bag feature, the Occupant Classification System (OCS) installed in the right front seat of the vehicle may misclassify a Child Restraint Seat (CRS) as an adult. This may occur if the CRS is installed after an adult has been seated in the right front seat. If there has not been a "KEY ON" "KEY OFF" cycle with the right front passenger seat empty prior to installation of the CRS.

CONSEQUENCE:
The possibility of misclassification of a CRS as an adult may allow the right front airbag or side impact airbag to deploy in a crash and could result in injury to the right front occupant.

REMEDY:
Dealers will reprogram the vehicle's OCS Electronic Control Unit (ECU) to remove the feature that may cause the CRS to be recognized as an adult. The recall is expected to begin during late October 2005. Owners should contact KIA at 1-800-333-4542.

NOTES:
KIA recall No. SC-053. Customers can also contact The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.