The problem
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. The ball socket on the windshield wiper link May be out of tolerance resulting in the link disengaging from the wiper motor drive under load, such as pushing against ice, snow or other resistance. Also the wiper arm retaining nut could be inadequately tightened allowing the wiper arm to slip and/or stop functioning.
The risk
This condition could cause impairment of visibility in inclement weather increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will replace the windshield wiper link and also properly tighten the wiper arm retaining nuts.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 99V-271 (99V271000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | SCO12 |
| Manufacturer | Kia America, Inc. |
| Component | Visibility › Windshield wiper/washer › Linkages |
| Report date | October 6, 1999 |
| Owners notified | November 19, 1999 |
| Vehicles affected | 90,054 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the windows, wipers & sunroof
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 99V-271 repair free?
Yes. Kia dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the windshield wiper link and also properly tighten the wiper arm retaining nuts.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 90,054 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.