2016 KIA RIO Recalls Canada & USA – Major League Recalls
2016 KIA RIO Recalls — Canada & USA
Summary
The 2016 Kia Rio has 2 recalls, both concerning the same trunk latch defect that can prevent the emergency interior release from working, trapping a person inside the trunk.
The latch mechanism can become damaged in a way that disables the internal release handle, meaning someone closed inside the trunk would have no way to open it from the inside.
On certain vehicles, a part in the trunk release latch could fail. If this happens, the emergency trunk release located inside the trunk compartment may not work properly. This could prevent a person that is trapped inside the trunk from opening it.
Safety Risk
If a person is closed inside the trunk compartment, they may not be able to get out. This could create a risk of injury.
Remedy
Kia will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to replace the trunk latch base subassembly.
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Forte 4-door, Forte Koup 2-door, and 2018-2019 Rio 4-door vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
Safety Risk
A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the trunk latch assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on February 10, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC216.
