Kia recalls 508K vehicles to address airbag module failures

In a crash, the airbag control unit can short circuit and prevent the front airbags and seatbelt pretensioners from deploying.

Kia has recalled more than 507,000 vehicles to fix a problem that can prevent airbags from deploying. The campaign affects the 2010-2013 Forte, 2011-2013 Optima and 2011-2012 Optima Hybrid and Sedona.

Certain types of frontal crashes can cause the airbag control unit to short circuit. If a chip inside the ACU becomes fried, the front airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not deploy.

"If the frontal air bags and seat belt pretensioners are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a vehicle crash that necessitates deployment of these safety systems," the recall notice warns.

Kia is still developing a remedy for the glitch. The recall is scheduled to begin July 27.