Kia to recall 12,400 EV9 SUVs over faulty remote parking assist

Kia has issued a recall for 12,400 EV9 models due to a software problem that could cause the intelligent remote parking feature to not park as intended.

Kia will recall 12,400 EV9 models over a software glitch

The Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) feature is designed to park your EV9 or summon it when parked at the push of a button (learn more in the video below).

Kia's RSPA uses sensors to remotely control the car's steering, speed, and gears so it can move it back and forth from a parking spot. However, a recently discovered bug with the Integrated Electronic Brake (IEB) software can cause the problem.

As a result, the system may fail to apply sufficient brake pressure when stopped or traveling below 2 mph.

Kia first noticed the problem earlier this month after a Korean EV9 model using the feature collided with a stationary car. Kia notified NHTSA of the recall on September 17, 2024, which may affect 12,400 2024 EV9 models.

Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on October 18, 2024. Kia dealers will update the IEB software with an “enhanced concept” for free.

You can contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542 with questions. Kia's recall number is SC324. EV9 owners can also contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or visit the website for more information. The NHTSA campaign number is 24V693000.

Kia's first three-line electric SUV helped it achieve a record consecutive months in the US. In the first eight months of 2024, approximately 13,900 EV9s have been sold in the US.

Starting at $56,395, Kia calls the electric SUV's price tag “a wake-up call for the industry.” Although the first EV9 rolled off the production line at Kia's GA plant, the company may wait until next year to ramp up production.

Kia America COO and senior vice president Steven Center told Car News that decision comes as Kia expects batteries assembled in the US to unlock access to a $7,500 federal tax credit.