Kia Recalls Over 21,000 EV9 SUVs: Airbag System May Overlook Child Occupants

Kia has initiated a recall for more than 21,000 units of its flagship electric SUV, the EV9, due to a critical safety flaw in the airbag control system. According to company filings, the system may fail to detect when a child is seated in the front passenger seat, potentially preventing airbag deployment in the event of a collision — significantly increasing injury risk for younger occupants.

Affected models are those produced for the U.S. market during a specific production window, and owners will be notified by mail beginning this spring. The remedy involves a software update that enhances occupant detection, with no cost to vehicle owners. Kia has not reported any crashes or injuries related to this issue, but advises owners to keep children in rear seats until the update is applied.