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Recall Alert: 2011-2013 Kia Sorento
Kia Sorento Recall: Brake-Shift Interlock Safety Issue
Important Safety Information for 2011-2013 Model Year Owners
Recall Overview
Kia Motors America has issued a significant safety recall affecting approximately 377,000 model-year 2011-2013 Kia Sorento SUVs. This recall addresses a critical issue with the brake-shift interlock mechanism that could potentially lead to unintended vehicle movement, posing serious safety risks to occupants and pedestrians.
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Affected Vehicles
Models Included
- 2011 Kia Sorento
- 2012 Kia Sorento
- 2013 Kia Sorento
Production Dates
- Manufactured between October 19, 2009
- Through January 31, 2013
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Vehicle Identification
To confirm if your specific vehicle is included in this recall, you can:
- Check your VIN on the NHTSA recall website
- Contact Kia customer service directly
- Use MotorVero's recall lookup tool
The Safety Concern
The recall centers on a potential defect in the brake-shift interlock mechanism, a critical safety component designed to prevent accidental gear shifting. Here's what owners need to understand about the problem:
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Mechanical Failure Risk
When excessive force is applied to the gearshift lever, the brake-shift interlock mechanism may sustain damage:
- The plastic components may chip or crack
- The internal locking mechanism can become compromised
- This damage may occur gradually over time with regular use
Potential Consequences
If the mechanism fails, several dangerous scenarios could occur:
- The transmission could be shifted out of Park without depressing the brake pedal
- The vehicle might roll away unexpectedly when parked
- This could lead to collisions with other vehicles or stationary objects
- Pedestrians, especially children, could be at risk in driveways or parking lots
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Safety Recommendations
Until the recall repair is performed, owners should:
- Always engage the parking brake when parked
- Avoid applying excessive force when shifting gears
- Be particularly cautious when parking on inclines
- Never leave the vehicle unattended with the engine running
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The Recall Solution
Kia has developed a permanent fix for this safety issue that will be provided at no cost to vehicle owners.
Repair Details
- Authorized Kia dealers will replace the brake-shift interlock mechanism
- The replacement part is made with improved materials to prevent future failures
- The service typically takes about one hour to complete
- All work will be performed by certified Kia technicians
What Owners Should Expect
Kia will follow a structured notification process to inform affected owners:
- Official recall notices will be mailed to registered owners
- The notification will include detailed instructions for scheduling repairs
- Owners may receive follow-up communications if repairs aren't completed
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Owner Action Steps
If you own an affected 2011-2013 Kia Sorento, here's what you need to do:
1. Verify Your Vehicle's Status
Confirm your vehicle is included in the recall by:
- Checking your VIN with NHTSA's recall lookup tool
- Contacting Kia customer service at 800-333-4542
- Visiting MotorVero's recall center
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2. Schedule Your Repair
Once confirmed, take these steps:
- Contact an authorized Kia dealership
- Mention recall campaign number (if available)
- Schedule a service appointment at your convenience
3. Prepare for Your Service Visit
To ensure a smooth process:
- Bring your recall notice if received
- Allow approximately 1-2 hours for the repair
- Ask about loaner vehicle availability if needed
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Need Help Finding a Kia Dealer?
MotorVero makes it easy to locate authorized Kia service centers in your area. Our dealer locator provides:
- Certified Kia repair facilities near you
- Dealer contact information and hours
- Customer reviews and ratings
- Special service department features
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Additional Safety Resources
For more information about this recall or other vehicle safety concerns, consider these resources:
Government Agencies
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): 888-327-4236 or www.safercar.gov
- NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline for recall questions
- SaferCar.gov recall database and complaint system
Kia Customer Support
- Kia Consumer Affairs: 800-333-4542
- Kia's official recall information website
- Kia customer service via online chat
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MotorVero Tools
- Vehicle recall lookup by VIN or make/model
- Recall alert subscription service
- Dealer service department reviews
Understanding Vehicle Recalls
Recalls are an important part of automotive safety. Here's what every vehicle owner should know:
Why Recalls Happen
Manufacturers issue recalls when:
- A safety-related defect is identified
- The defect poses a risk to vehicle occupants or others
- The problem is inherent in the vehicle's design or manufacture
- The issue affects a substantial number of vehicles
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Your Rights as a Consumer
Under U.S. law, recall repairs must be:
- Performed at no cost to the vehicle owner
- Available for a reasonable period (typically 10 years from sale)
- Completed regardless of the vehicle's current ownership
Staying Informed About Recalls
Proactive steps to stay updated:
- Register your vehicle with the manufacturer
- Keep your contact information current with the DMV
- Use NHTSA's recall alert subscription service
- Check MotorVero's recall center periodically
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Last Updated On Sep, 08-2025