2024 Kia Sportage

The SRS/airbag warning light illuminates and flashes, accompanied by a seat belt warning chime while the driver seat belt is fastened. I scanned the SRS module and retrieved DTC B1511-00 (Driver Seat Belt Buckle Switch Open Or Short To Battery) and B1515-00 (Driver Seat Belt Buckle Switch Defect), logged across two events. I purchased this vehicle used from a franchised dealer. I took it to that same dealer for diagnosis. Their technician found that the wiring harness under the driver seat had been cut and twisted back together. That splice was present before I purchased the vehicle. The dealership inspected and resold the vehicle to me in that condition and did not disclose any prior repair or modification to the restraint system wiring. As a result, the driver airbag and seat belt pretensioner may not deploy correctly in a crash. The dealer has denied warranty coverage on the basis of tampering and quoted over $2,000 for the part. The removed harness is in the dealer's possession and should be available for inspection.

Description of Crash: On [XXX], I was involved in a front-end collision while driving my 2024 Kia Sportage. Despite the impact, the airbags did not deploy. Additionally, the Forward Collision Assistance system did not engage or warn me prior to the crash, even though conditions were normal and the system was active. Safety Concern: •The airbags and collision assistance are federally regulated safety systems. Their failure put me and any potential passengers at serious risk. •I am very concerned this indicates a defect in the airbag and/or collision avoidance system. Damage/Injuries: My front end of my vehicle is completely destroyed, and so is my engine. As for myself I am experiencing some soreness and discomfort Requested Action: •I request that Kia and NHTSA investigate this failure as a potential safety defect. •I want confirmation that my case has been documented and reviewed for possible recall or repair action. State Farm Claim #: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

The contact owned a 2024 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that while driving at 77 MPH, the vehicle was involved in a front-impact crash with a large-sized deer. The air bags did not deploy. The contact stated that two minor children were seated in the rear seat. The vehicle was towed to a local tow yard. No injuries were sustained. No medical attention was administered. A police report was filed. The vehicle was condemned as a total loss by the insurance company. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 22,500.