Kia Recalls 21,290 EV9 SUVs Over Front Airbag Occupant Detection System Malfunction
Kia has issued a recall for 21,290 EV9 electric SUVs due to a defect in the front passenger Occupant Detection System (ODS). The ODS is designed to disable the front passenger airbag when a child or child seat is present, complying with federal safety standards. However, recall documents indicate that the ODS mat bladder tube, located under the seat cushion, can be pinched or damaged if the front passenger seat is repeatedly moved to its highest position. This improper routing, attributed to a supplier, can lead to the system failing to correctly disable the airbag. The recall encompasses all 2025 and a subset of 2026 EV9 models manufactured at Kia’s Georgia production facility between May 17, 2024, and May 13, 2026. Owners may notice an illuminated airbag warning light on the instrument panel or the passenger seatbelt warning chime activating without an occupant as potential indicators of the issue. 
