Kia Motors America is recalling 145,755 vehicles to fix a problem with the driver's side airbag that could potentially prevent it from deploying.
The recall covers 2006-08 model Optimas and 2007-08 model Rondos, according to documents posted on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Web site safercar.gov.
The problem originates with the clock spring assembly in the driver's side airbag which may become damaged over time. The damage can place high resistance on the electrical circuit, prompt an airbag warning light to illuminate on the instrument panel and compromise the airbag's ability to deploy, the automaker said in a letter to NHTSA. The condition could put drivers at risk for injury.
Kia, which identified the problem in November, will begin notifying dealers and customers sometime in March.
The company, in a statement, said it isn't aware of any airbags failing to deploy or of injuries resulting from the problem.
"Kia will provide a lifetime warranty for the driver’s airbag clock spring contact assembly for vehicles covered under this recall," Kia said.
Dealers will replace the vehicle's airbag clock spring as necessary, free of charge.
