The problem
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2013 Forte vehicles manufactured September 10, 2012, to October 31, 2012. The screws that hold the front seatbelt retractor retaining plates may not have been properly tightened, and as a result, the seatbelt retractor retaining plates may break in a crash.
The risk
If a retaining plate breaks during a crash, pieces of the plate could strike the occupants, increasing risk of injury.
The fix
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace both front seatbelt assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. The recall began July 1, 2016. Kia's number for this recall is SC132.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 16V-312 (16V312000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | SC132 |
| Manufacturer | Kia America, Inc. |
| Component | Seat belts › Front › Retractor |
| Report date | May 17, 2016 |
| Owners notified | July 1, 2016 |
| Vehicles affected | 5,245 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the seat belts
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 16V-312 repair free?
Yes. Kia dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace both front seatbelt assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. The recall began July 1, 2016. Kia's number for this recall is SC132.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 5,245 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.