The problem
Vehicle description: sport utility vehicles without an anti-lock braking system (ABS). The steering intermediate shaft coupling can contact a hydraulic brake pipe causing fluid leakage.
The risk
This condition can cause a loss of rear brake increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, increase the clearance between the brake pipe and steering intermediate shaft coupling.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 98V-222 (98V222000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Kia America, Inc. |
| Component | Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings |
| Report date | September 15, 1998 |
| Owners notified | October 19, 1998 |
| Vehicles affected | 39,656 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the brakes
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 98V-222 repair free?
Yes. Kia dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, increase the clearance between the brake pipe and steering intermediate shaft coupling.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 39,656 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.