Investigation RQ03007: 1999–2002 Kia Sportage

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Oct 14, 2003

Closed

Feb 27, 2004

Model years

1999–2002

Subject

Seat belt buckle false latch/malfunction

Component: Seat belts › Front › Buckle assembly

Summary

Information received and analyzed during this rq disclosed that my 1999 and 2000 kia sephia and sportage vehicles were equipped with modified versions of the same safety belt latch assembly as those recalled in campaign no. 02v-216.these latch assemblies were identified as type a97. Odi analyses indicate a continuing trend of consumer complaints following a series of design modifications made by kia to improve the a97 latch assembly.my 2001 and 2002 subject vehicles were equipped with different design latch assemblies (type db-6 or autoliv) and exhibit a much lower complaint count.this rq has been upgraded to an ea in order to further investigate this matter for the subject vehicles equipped with type a97 latch assemblies.

An NHTSA investigation looks into whether a safety defect exists. Opening one is not a finding. Outcomes can include a recall, closure without action, or further inquiry.

Model years covered

• 2002 Kia Sportage234 complaints
• 2001 Kia Sportage228 complaints
• 2000 Kia Sportage304 complaints
• 1999 Kia Sportage284 complaints