Affected vehicles include certain model-year 2023 Sportage SUVs that were manufactured at the brand’s West Point, Ga., plant from Jan. 12, 2022, to Feb. 15, 2023. The issue is with the brake booster diaphragm, which may become misaligned and result in an internal vacuum leak. An internal vacuum leak can cause a loss of brake assist, which can result in a hard pedal feel, requiring extra effort to come to a complete stop and increasing stopping distance. A loss of brake assist increases the risk of a crash.
To resolve the problem, dealers will inspect and replace the brake booster, as necessary, for free. Kia will begin notifying owners July 21, but those with further questions in the meantime can contact the brand at 800-333-4542 (Kia’s number for this recall is SC272), the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s vehicle-safety hotline at 888-327-4236, or visit its website to check their vehicle identification number and learn more.
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Corinne Vercoe
Corinne Vercoe has been writing professionally for 10 years. She began producing and editing content for the automotive industry in 2018, joining Cars.com as Copy Editor in 2021. She is a member of the Midwest Automotive Media Association and inherited an interest in cars from her father, a lifelong Chevrolet Corvette enthusiast.