The problem
On certain passenger and sport utility vehicles, the front safety belt buckles May emit a "click" sound during the buckling process that is similar to the sound emitted when a buckle is being latched, when it is not.
The risk
The latch can then pull out of the buckle when tension is applied.
The fix
Dealers will replace both front seat belt buckles. The recall began August 16, 2004. Owners should contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 04V-305 (04V305000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | SC039 |
| Manufacturer | Kia America, Inc. |
| Component | Seat belts › Front › Buckle assembly |
| Report date | June 24, 2004 |
| Owners notified | August 16, 2004 |
| Vehicles affected | 251,594 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the seat belts
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 04V-305 repair free?
Yes. Kia dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace both front seat belt buckles. The recall began August 16, 2004. Owners should contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 251,594 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.