Kia is taking proactive steps to safeguard the safety and performance of its customers by recalling 342 of its 2025 EV9 electric SUVs due to a potential issue with the vehicle’s drive power. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a small number of these vehicles may be equipped with rear gear drive units that have motor shafts improperly welded during assembly by a supplier. While the concern only affects a limited quantity of models, it’s crucial for owners to be aware, as this fault could compromise the car’s ability to deliver full power to the wheels.
Imagine driving your brand-new electric SUV, and suddenly feeling a tug of hesitation whenever you hit the accelerator. This could be one of the telltale signs associated with the issue at hand. In addition to a slower acceleration, drivers might notice an unusual noise coming from the driveline—a sound that’s often hard to ignore, and certainly not what you expect when driving a premium vehicle. If your dashboard starts flashing a warning that says “Check AWD/4WD,” it’s a signal that this issue may be present.
The bleeding heart of this story is that Kia recognizes just how disheartening this can be for drivers—a mere 4% of those affected are estimated to have this defect, thankfully, and the front drive units appear to be unaffected. The recall specifically pertains to dual-motor all-wheel-drive models; owners of single-motor versions can breathe easy. The affected vehicles were assembled at Kia’s plant in West Point, Georgia, between October 11, 2024, and December 19, 2024.
The good news is that Kia is committed to remedying this situation without any financial burden to its customers. The solution involves a complete replacement of the rear gear drive unit, and this service will be carried out free of charge at Kia dealerships. Furthermore, Kia is stepping up to reimburse owners for any related expenses incurred before the recall was announced—a thoughtful touch that reinforces their dedication to customer satisfaction.
If you’re an EV9 owner, you can expect to receive a notification letter from Kia beginning on March 7, advising you on the next steps. In the meantime, if you have questions or seek immediate clarity, there’s an open line of communication available through Kia’s customer service department at 800-333-4542. Alternatively, you can explore more information on the automaker’s recall website. Be sure to reference Kia’s recall number, SC337, when you reach out.
Despite this recall, the EV9 made quite a splash since its debut for the 2024 model year. Incredibly, it garnered high praise, even being named The Car Connection’s Best Car To Buy 2024. This accolade isn’t simply a marketing gimmick; it highlights the vehicle’s impressive value compared to its peers in the three-row electric SUV segment. The continuation of its 2025 model remains highly regarded, earning it recognition as the Best SUV To Buy 2025.
For Kia EV9 owners, it’s understandable to feel a wave of concern when hearing about a recall, especially when it’s regarding something as vital as drive power. But rest assured that Kia is dedicated to providing you with both a solution and support during this process. You’re not just another owner; you’re part of a community that values quality and safety, and Kia is here to stand by you now and in the future.
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