NHTSA Complaint #11438220 — 2016 KIA OPTIMA

Rear passenger window failed in June 2021 and cost $700 to fix, not under warranty per dealer. Replaced the window regulator unfortunately, I did not ask for the old part. One week later the rear window on the driver side failed in the same manner. Motor can be heard running and window drops down on it's own. My first fear was I was ripped off and dealer only switched the two parts because what are the chances? Having just spent $700 I did not return immediately but within 2-weeks, before making the appointment the passenger front window breaks! So at that point I start thinking a there must be a recall and start checking. I don't learn the cause of the issue until last month, Sept when the final window gave up as well. Not having the driver door window in FL where I drive on bridges is a hazard. I learned that a "plastic on plastic gear mechanism" fails over time. I am single and rarely have anyone in the rear seats so those gears crumbled from lack of use! KIA changed the design in 2018 due to failures but is failing to take care of earlier models costing owners thousands in repairs. I am the original owner, the car was 5-years old Feb 2021 and the car is garaged at work and home. These should be recalled no one should have to pay thousands in repairs when clearly this is defective and dangerous. All of the windows broke while the car was driving down the road. I live in Florida and this happened during storm season. Very luckily for the interior it wasn't raining as the windows were in the down position when they would not return to closed. I drive over Tampa Bay every day for work so not having working windows is dangerous. Someone should hold KIA accountable they know they are defective. I heard from a Hyundai owner they have the same problem, no surprise KIA owns Hyundai! I bet they changed that design too! My car is garaged work & home so likely helped mine from crumbling under warranty. Please recall window regulators!