NHTSA Recall 02V216000: Buckle assembly (seat belts)
KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC. reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 189,706 vehicles. It affects 2 models including the Kia Sephia.
| NHTSA campaign | 02V216000 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer campaign | SC027 |
| Component | SEAT BELTS › FRONT › BUCKLE ASSEMBLY |
| Report received | August 16, 2002 |
| Owner notification | December 20, 2002 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation |
Defect
On certain passenger vehicles, the safety belt buckle may "false latch" and expose the driver to unrestrained movement during a crash.
Safety risk
In the event of a crash, the seat occupant may not be properly restrained, increasing the risk of personal injury.
Remedy
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.
Notes
Also, customers can contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Vehicles covered by recall 02V216000
Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.