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NHTSA Recall 23V179000: Trailer hitches

Park outside Kia America, Inc. reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 3,555 vehicles. It affects 2022–2023 Kia Carnival.

3,555
vehicles potentially affected
1
model affected
2023
owners notified (May 16)
NHTSA campaign23V179000
Manufacturer campaignSC265
ComponentTRAILER HITCHES
Report receivedMarch 17, 2023
Owner notificationMay 16, 2023
Initiated byManufacturer

Defect

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Carnival vehicles equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Kia dealership. Water accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.

Safety risk

A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy

Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the remedy is completed. Dealers will inspect and verify whether the vehicle is equipped with a Genuine Kia accessory trailer tow hitch assembly. If equipped, dealers will install a new fuse and wire extension kit. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 16, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC265.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Vehicles covered by recall 23V179000

Make and modelModel years
Kia Carnival2022, 2023

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.