Table 1 shows one common seat belt related problems of the 2024 Kia Motor Sportage.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Seat Belt problems |
The srs/airbag warning light illuminates and flashes, accompanied by a seat belt warning chime while the driver seat belt is fastened. I scanned the srs module and retrieved dtc b1511-00 (driver seat belt buckle switch open or short to battery) and b1515-00 (driver seat belt buckle switch defect), logged across two events. I purchased this vehicle used from a franchised dealer. I took it to that same dealer for diagnosis. Their technician found that the wiring harness under the driver seat had been cut and twisted back together. That splice was present before I purchased the vehicle. The dealership inspected and resold the vehicle to me in that condition and did not disclose any prior repair or modification to the restraint system wiring. As a result, the driver airbag and seat belt pretensioner may not deploy correctly in a crash. The dealer has denied warranty coverage on the basis of tampering and quoted over $2,000 for the part. The removed harness is in the dealer's possession and should be available for inspection.
The contact owns a 2024 kia Sportage hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at 30 mph, the vehicle came to an abrupt stop. There were no warning lights illuminated. The seat belt failed to secure her grandson, who was occupying the front passenger seat, and he flew out of the seat. The driver's seat belt failed to secure her, and she was thrust forward over the steering wheel. The contact called the local dealer, but there was no response. While driving at approximately 30 mph, the vehicle came to an abrupt stop. There were no vehicles around. While driving at 30 mph, the vehicle suddenly stopped, and an unknown pickup truck crashed into the rear of the vehicle. The contact was concerned about driving the vehicle. The contact sustained injuries to her neck, back, and left shoulder, which was torn, and medical attention was provided. There was no reported fire or airbag deployment. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to another local dealer, raceway kia 4044 us-9, freehold, NJ 07728, who determined the vehicle was working as designed. There were no codes displayed during diagnosis. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, who opened a case, but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 3,200.