2021-2023 Kia Rear Occupant Alert System Information

Understanding the Kia Rear Occupant Alert System

Kia has released Technical Bulletin PS672 (Rev 1, dated August 10, 2022), which provides important information about the Rear Occupant Alert (ROA) with Rear Door Logic system. This system is available on all 2021-2023 model year and newer Kia vehicles equipped with this feature. Its primary purpose is to help prevent a rear passenger from being unintentionally left inside the vehicle when the driver exits.

The Kia Rear Occupant Alert system functions by monitoring the rear doors. If either of the rear doors (or both) were opened and closed during vehicle operation, the system will trigger a reminder. This reminder is designed to prompt the driver to check the rear seating area before leaving the vehicle.

How the "Check Rear Seats" Message Works

When the Kia Rear Occupant Alert system is activated, and the conditions for a potential rear occupant are met (i.e., a rear door was opened and closed during the trip), a specific message will appear. The "Check Rear Seats" message will display on the instrument cluster as soon as the driver opens their front door to exit the vehicle. This visual alert serves as a final reminder to ensure no one is left behind.

Important Owner Warning: System Limitations

Kia emphasizes a critical safety point regarding the Kia Rear Occupant Alert (ROA) with Rear Door Logic system. This system does not physically detect objects or people in the rear seat. It operates based solely on the logic of whether the rear doors were opened and closed.

Some Kia models, such as the Telluride, Carnival, and Sorento, may be equipped with an additional ROA ultrasonic sensor monitoring system. This advanced system is designed to provide an alert to the driver if someone may have been left behind. However, even with this additional technology, Kia strongly advises owners to always manually check the rear seat(s) before getting out of the vehicle to ensure complete safety.

Managing Your Kia Rear Occupant Alert System

Owners have the ability to activate or deactivate the Kia Rear Occupant Alert system. The method for doing so depends on the vehicle's audio and infotainment configuration:

• Vehicles with Standard Audio:

  • Press the 'Mode' button on the steering wheel until the "User Settings" menu appears on the instrument cluster display.
  • Navigate to "Convenience" → "Rear Occupant Alert".
  • Select or deselect the check box to activate or deactivate the feature.

• Vehicles with Infotainment System:

  • Select the 'Setup' button on the infotainment system.
  • Navigate to "Vehicle" → "Convenience" → "Rear Occupant Alert".
  • Adjust the setting as desired.

For detailed operating instructions specific to your model, always refer to your vehicle's Owner's Manual.

NHTSA Source: NHTSA ID 10217891