The 2008 Kia Optima is among the vehicles affected by the recall.
NEW YORK (CNNMoney) — Kia has announced the recall of nearly 146,000 vehicles with faulty airbag systems.
The models affected are the 2006-2008 Kia Optima and the 2007-2008 Kia Rondo. Due to a flawed spring system that may become damaged over time, the driver’s side airbag in these cars may not deploy properly in the event of a crash, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in a recall alert.
Kia reported the problem last week, and the recall is expected to begin in March, NHTSA said. Customers affected can have the problem fixed at dealerships free of charge.
A spokesman for Kia did not immediately return a request for comment.
For more information, car owners can contact the NHTSA’s vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or visit www.safecar.gov. 