Complaint filed with NHTSA

NHTSA

A few days ago, I alluded to attempting to work with Kia on what I believe should be a warranty issue. I was rebuffed by both a local dealer and the company itself. So today a detailed complaint was filed NHTSA, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

I will give you a detailed account in a moment but first let me say that NHTSA makes the process pretty simple. And I’ve seen enough form complaints over the years that tell me more drivers should avail themselves of this option.

In any case, here is my story. The 2022 Kia Niro EV, with but 25,500 miles on it, has pitted rear disk rotors (right). Kia gives a knee jerk reaction by simply stating that brakes a wear item and thus not a warranty issue.

However, I counter that the disk rotors are not worn, they are pitted and thus defective.

Here is my argument:
1) As an EV, regenerative braking reduces the need to use the actual brakes considerably.
2) The rear brakes grind at low speeds prompting an examination.
3) Grinding is not heard when braking from higher speeds, which suggests that the car relies far too much on the front brakes. Thus the rear brakes are left to rot.

Tesla recognizes that the lack of brake use can result in noisy brakes and recommends a procedure for burnishing the brakes! We posted about this previously here.

I attempted the procedure on the Niro, but unsuccessfully as, again, the rear brakes do not appear to engage at the higher speeds necessary for burnishing. Also, its quite likely too late.

Fear not — between regen braking, which uses the electric motor running in reverse, and the front brakes the car stops just fine.

I will keep you posted.

——————————————————————-

The material on these pages is provided for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Privacy Policy https://dashboardsymbols.com/about/disclaimer/