The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched several investigations and issued recalls recently.

Investigations have been launched for some models of the GMC Acadia/Saturn Outlook, Honda Pilot and Toyota RAV4. GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook from the 2007 through 2009 model years are being investigated for a malfunction with the low beam headlights. NHTSA has received 415 reports that the wiring harness inside the headlight assembly has overheated and melted. The 2005 Honda Pilot is being investigated due to 35 reports of a problem with the electronic stability control that results in the brakes being applied causing unexpected slowing or steering pull. The 2006-2008 Toyota RAV4 is being evaluated for possible failure of the left or right rear suspension arm due to corrosion. Seven complaints have been received.

A recall will be issued on these vehicles if the NHTSA investigation finds one is warranted. Consumers who believe they experience a safety issue with their vehicles, tires or a child safety seat can report it to NHTSA by filing a complaint.

The latest recall announcements are:

Kia is recalling some 2006-2008 Kia Rio models for a problem with the occupant sensor for the front passenger that can cause it to operate improperly resulting in it not being able to determine if a child passenger is in the seat and resulting in the airbag deploying during a crash. 72,568 vehicles are affected and Kia is expected to start the recall process next month.

Some models of the 2009 Kia Borrego are also being recalled. Some of those models equipped with non-adjustable brake pedals may break off in certain crashes while the car is still operable. As a result, the driver would need to stop the car with the parking brake and could experience an additional impact. 21,912 vehicles are affected.

Owners of all cars affected by recalls will be notified by mail by the manufacturer. Consumers who are concerned that their car is affected can find more information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration by searching for their car here or by calling the toll-free number in their owner's manual.