Kia recalls cars in U.S. to fix trunk latch that could trap people

DETROIT –

Kia is recalling about 320,000 vehicles within the U.S. to repair an issue that might stop the trunk from being opened from the within.

The recall covers the Optima midsize automobile from 2016 by 2018, Optima hybrids and plug-ins from 2017 and 2018, and the Rio small automobile from 2016 and 2017.

Kia says in paperwork posted Thursday by U.S. security regulators that the trunk latch base can crack, and will not open from the within. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says an individual contained in the trunk may change into trapped.

Dealers will change a part of the trunk latch base. Owners might be notified by letter beginning Oct. 19.