U.S. Agency Closes Probe Into Kia Small Cars Without Recall

U.S. auto safety regulators have closed an investigation into air bag problems in some Kia small cars without seeking a recall.

In September, investigators began looking into problems in about 186,000 Spectra cars manufactured between 2007 through 2009. The agency and Kia received 163 complaints about the failure of mats in the front passenger seats that detect whether a child is there. The devices turn off the air bags to prevent injuries. However, the mats could develop electrical problems that let the air bags inflate even if a child is present.

The government determined the failure rate was low for the cars’ age. In addition, Kia extended the mat warranty to 15 years.

Kia will notify owners about the warranty and send them to dealers if a warning light comes on.