This Kia PV5 Weld Issue Could Make Your Suspension Strut Fail

Wouter Smit · 2026-07-13

Kia has issued a recall for 3,670 units of its PV5 model, targeting vehicles built between November 12, 2025, and March 31, 2026. The problem? A faulty weld on the right front suspension strut bracket. If that weld gives way, the strut can separate from the lower control arm mid-drive. That's not just a bump in the road — it could seriously affect your ability to steer and stop safely. ### What's Actually Going Wrong? The recall centers on a single weld point where the suspension strut bracket meets the lower control arm. In some PV5s, that weld wasn't done correctly during assembly. Over time, or even suddenly, the strut could detach. Imagine cruising down the highway and losing control of one wheel — that's the kind of scenario Kia is trying to prevent. - The affected vehicles were made in a five-month window. - The issue is isolated to the right front suspension. - No other models or years are included in this recall. ### Why This Matters for PV5 Owners If you own a Kia PV5 from that production period, this isn't something to ignore. A failing suspension strut can cause uneven tire wear, poor handling, and in worst-case scenarios, a crash. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) hasn't issued a separate alert yet, but Kia's voluntary recall shows they're taking it seriously. > "The safety of our customers is our top priority," Kia said in a statement. "We are working with authorized dealers to inspect and repair all affected vehicles at no cost to owners." ### What You Should Do Next First, check if your PV5 is part of this recall. You can do that by visiting the NHTSA website or calling your local Kia dealer with your VIN. If it is, schedule an appointment right away. The fix involves inspecting the weld and, if necessary, replacing the strut assembly. It's free, and it should take less than a day. Don't put it off. Even if you haven't noticed any issues, the weld could fail without warning. Better safe than sorry — especially when it comes to something as critical as your suspension. ### How Recalls Work in the U.S. Recalls are common in the automotive world. In fact, millions of vehicles are recalled each year for everything from software glitches to faulty airbags. The key is to act fast. Manufacturers are required by law to fix the problem for free, and dealers must prioritize safety-related repairs. - You'll get a letter from Kia if your vehicle is affected. - The repair is 100% covered — no charge for parts or labor. - You can also check online using your vehicle identification number. ### Final Thoughts This recall is a reminder that even well-built cars can have flaws. The good news is Kia caught it early and is handling it proactively. If you drive a PV5, take five minutes to check your VIN. It could save you from a dangerous situation down the road. Stay safe out there, and keep your suspension in check.