Kia is recalling more than 6,000 Telluride sport utility vehicles because a seat belt malfunction could raise the risk of injury in a crash. The recall affects a total of 6,264 2027 Telluride and Telluride Hybrid models, according to a notice from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The affected vehicles include 4,367 Telluride Hybrid models manufactured from March 24 through May 12, 2026, and 1,897 gas-powered Telluride models manufactured from March 24 through May 10, 2026.
Kia learned that the driver seat belt emergency locking retractor (ELR) may lock when the driver tries to extend the seat belt webbing, preventing the belt from extending. The issue, which could leave an occupant without a properly restrained seat belt, is thought to stem from an incorrect vehicle sensor installed by a supplier. NHTSA said the defect is tied to a supplier error and that about 1% of recalled vehicles may have the defect.
Kia notes that no other Kia models are equipped with the defective retractor, and the recall is being conducted to bring the affected vehicles into compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 209, which covers seat belt assemblies. Owners will be notified by letters that are expected to be mailed on July 31. Dealers will replace the seat belt assembly at no cost to owners. The Kia recall number for this action is SC372, and owners can expect vehicle identification numbers to be searchable on NHTSA’s site beginning June 16, 2026.
The recall comes as part of ongoing vehicle-safety monitoring in a sector where recalls for seat belt and other restraint components periodically surface as automakers and suppliers address intermittent hardware issues. While no crashes or injuries are confirmed in connection with this specific defect in the recall notice, regulators have stressed the critical role of properly functioning restraints in protecting occupants.
