Kia recalls 2014 Cadenza over wheel fractures

Thu, 19 Jun 2014

Kia is officially recalling just over 3,100 2014 Cadenza sedans. While that might not seem like a lot of vehicles, the reason for the recall is particularly troubling – the optional 19-inch wheels on these cars are prone to cracking. Doubly troubling? Cold weather tends to make things worse, so if you drove your new Cadenza during this past Winter of Hell, you'll want to get on the horn with your local dealer.

The affected cars, all of which have 19-inch wheels, were built between February 1, 2013 and August 27, 2013. Kia is in the process of notifying owners, and should be completed by the end of the month. Based on the recall documents, it doesn't appear that there have been any injuries or crashes due to the wheel fractures.

Owners will need to report to dealers, where their cars will be fitted with replacement wheels, free of charge. Scroll down for the official bulletin from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Manufacturer: Kia Motors Corporation

SUMMARY:

Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2014 Cadenza vehicles manufactured February 1, 2013, through August 27, 2013, and equipped with 19" non-chrome aluminum wheels. The wheels on the affected vehicles may fracture from impacts such as large, deep potholes.

CONSEQUENCE:
A wheel fracture could cause the circular rim to separate, resulting in a loss of tire pressure, increasing the risk of a crash.

REMEDY:
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the wheels with new wheels, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in June 2014. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC107.

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.safercar.gov.

By Brandon Turkus