— Kia is recalling more than 1,400 model year 2016 Kia Sorento SUVs because a welding robot failed to do its job. Kia ordered the recall because a rear-end collision could cause the driver-side seatback frame to break and fail to restrain the driver.
Kia says it received a warranty claim in August regarding a problem with the welding of the driver-side seatback frame in a 2016 Sorento, so the automaker requested the part. Kia also consulted with the seat assembly supplier and together they inspected the seatback.
Engineers found improper weld points on the seat frame and the supplier found problems with a welding robot used for the frame. The improper welds weren't strong enough to hold the seatback, but once the robot was reprogrammed, the weld points passed the strength test.
The automaker says it received two warranty claims, but no reports of accidents or injuries.
The recalled 2016 Kia Sorento SUVs were built March 3, 2016, to March 21, 2016.
Kia will start notifying Sorento owners on December 9, 2016. Dealers will inspect the seatback frame welds and replace the seatback frame if needed.
Owners of the 2016 Kia Sorento may contact the automaker at 800-333-4542 and use recall number SC140.
Back in July, owners of 2016 Kia Sorento SUVs were contacted about a separate recall caused by welding problems. The July recall saw Kia recall the SUVs because welds could break and cause problems with the alignment of the rear suspensions.
CarComplaints.com has complaints about the 2016 Kia Sorento and many other model years of Kia Sorento SUVs.