DETROIT — Kia Motors is recalling more than 70,000 Optima midsize sedans to fix transmission problems that can cause the cars to roll even while they’re in park.
The cars are from the 2006 through 2008 model years and were built from Sept. 29, 2005, to June 13, 2007.
In documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Kia said that on some of the cars, a transmission shifter cable was installed incorrectly and can become detached from the shifter. If the cable comes off, the car would stay in the last gear used even if the driver puts the transmission in park, the documents said.
Kia plans to start the recall this month and will notify owners by mail. Drivers will be told to use the parking brake when shifting the transmission into park, “especially until they can take their vehicle to the dealer,” the documents said.
Owners who have questions can call Kia at 800-333-4542.
Denver Post staff and wire reports
