DETROIT (AP) — Kia is recalling nearly 52,000 Soul small SUVs to fix a problem that can cause steering failure.

The recall covers vehicles from the 2014 model year built from July 21, 2013, through Jan. 17, 2014.

The Korean automaker says a plug that secures a pinion gear to the steering assembly can loosen and cause the gear to separate. That can cause a driver to lose steering and increase the risk of a crash.

Kia says in documents filed with U.S. safety regulators that it has three warranty claims and no reports of crashes or injuries due to the problem.

Dealers will replace the plug and apply thread-locking adhesive at no cost to owners. The recall is expected to start this month.

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