Recall 11V258000: R/H Axle Shaft, A/T Out Put Gear

VEHICLE MAKE/MODEL: MODEL YEAR(S):

KIA/Sorento 2011

MANUFACTURER: KIA Motor Corporation

MFR'S REPORT DATE: April 25, 2011

NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 11V258000

NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: PE11010

COMPONENT: Power Train: Driveline: Driveshaft

POTENTIAL NUMBER OF UNITS AFFECTED: 12,690

SUMMARY:
KIA is recalling certain model year 2011 Sorento 2WD vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions and 2.4L engines manufactured from the start of production through May 22, 2010. The intermediate shaft may suffer from noise and excessive wear due to a misalignment of the intermediate shaft with the right side output gear. Continuing to drive the vehicle in this condition leads to the development of a whirring/whining noise and can eventually cause damage to the automatic transmission.

CONSEQUENCE:
Damage to the transmission may cause loss of motive power, increasing the risk of a crash.

REMEDY:
Dealers will replace the right side output gear and intermediate shaft free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during May 2011. Owners may contact KIA at 1-800-333-4542.

NOTES:
KIA safety recall No. SC089. Owners may also contact The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.