2018 KIA Optima

Recalls

2 recalls name the 2018 KIA Optima. Newest first.

• Latches/locks/linkages › Trunk lid › Latch

  Aug 24, 2023NHTSA 23V594000319,436 vehicles

  Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Rio, 2016-2018 Optima, 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. The trunk latch base may crack, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk…

  Risk and remedy

  Risk

  A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.

  Remedy

  Dealers will replace the trunk latch base subassembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC278.

  Full recall details →

• Hybrid propulsion system

  Mar 8, 2018NHTSA 18V1610001,710 vehicles

  Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Optima hybrid vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with a Voltage Protection Device (VPD), designed to protect the high voltage battery module, that may activate inadvertently.

  Risk and remedy

  Risk

  If the VPD activates while the vehicle is being operated in Electric Vehicle (EV) mode, there may be a loss of power, increasing the risk of a crash.

  Remedy

  Kia will notify owners, and dealers will remove the VPD switch and install two newly designed Battery Management Systems (BMS) that contain Overvoltage Protection Devices (OPDs), free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC162.

  Full recall details →

Owner complaints

What owners report most

1. Engine132
2. Unknown or other38
3. Electrical system33
4. Power train19
5. Service brakes17
6. Exterior lighting14
7. Engine and engine cooling14
8. Fuel/propulsion system13
9. Steering12
10. Vehicle speed control10

Latest complaints

• Oct 21, 2026CA
  Engine · Power train · Unknown or other
  My 2018 Kia Optima has the Theta II 2.4L engine. In February 2026, the dealer performed an engine/powertrain computer reprogramming. In August 2026, the engine failed and the vehicle was taken to an authorized Kia dealer, where the engine was replaced under the Theta II engine warranty. The vehicle…

  My 2018 Kia Optima has the Theta II 2.4L engine. In February 2026, the dealer performed an engine/powertrain computer reprogramming. In August 2026, the engine failed and the vehicle was taken to an authorized Kia dealer, where the engine was replaced under the Theta II engine warranty. The vehicle was at the dealer from August 8 until the repair was completed on September 29, 2026. When I picked up the vehicle on October 9, it felt shaky and vibrated on the drive home. On October 11, the vehicle began giving off a distinct, unfamiliar smell that is not like burning fuel or oil. On October 21, I found the vehicle leaking an opaque, milky tan fluid onto my garage floor. The type and source of the fluid are UNKNOWN. I have photos of the leak. My family and I have stopped driving the vehicle because we believe it is unsafe. We were driving it with our children before these symptoms appeared. Given the history of Theta II engine failures, we are concerned about the risk of engine failure, stalling, or fire while driving. The new symptoms have not yet been diagnosed or confirmed by a dealer. I am arranging for the vehicle to be towed to a Kia dealer for warranty diagnosis. The vehicle and leak are available for inspection. I have reported these issues to the manufacturer under an open customer case.

• Sep 8, 2026FL126,000 mi
  Engine
  The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the vehicle jerked abnormally. The failure persisted while driving, and the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to restart the vehicle; however, the failure persisted while driving. The vehicle was…

  The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the vehicle jerked abnormally. The failure persisted while driving, and the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to restart the vehicle; however, the failure persisted while driving. The vehicle was towed to a dealer to be repaired under an unknown recall for an engine software update and key fob replacement; however, the dealer failed to honor the recall repair and recommended purchasing a new vehicle. The manufacturer was contacted by phone, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 126,000. The VIN and License plate number were unavailable.

• Aug 20, 2026GA136,000 mi
  Engine
  The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate and failed to exceed 52 MPH. The vehicle shut off. The contact stated that the engine was running rough while stationary and the vehicle shut off without warning. The…

  The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate and failed to exceed 52 MPH. The vehicle shut off. The contact stated that the engine was running rough while stationary and the vehicle shut off without warning. The vehicle was taken to an Auto Parts Store, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that the vehicle was in LIMP Mode with knock sensor codes displayed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 136,000.

• Jul 22, 2026FL
  Engine and engine cooling

  See attached document for complaint.

• Jul 19, 2026PACrash1 injury
  Air bags · Seat belts
  I was run off the road by a drunk driver I hit a tree at 35MPH MY AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY NOR DID MY SEAT BELT LOCK!!!! I NOW HAVE MULTIPLE INJURIES I HAVE BROKEN BONES ALL THROUGHOUT MY FACE!!!!! A SEVERE CONCUSSION!!!!! Any time I call the the customer care center and try and get information or…

  I was run off the road by a drunk driver I hit a tree at 35MPH MY AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY NOR DID MY SEAT BELT LOCK!!!! I NOW HAVE MULTIPLE INJURIES I HAVE BROKEN BONES ALL THROUGHOUT MY FACE!!!!! A SEVERE CONCUSSION!!!!! Any time I call the the customer care center and try and get information or call someone I either get hung up or gave the run around and then hung up on my mother in law has also tried calling and have received the same response this is so unacceptable and unprofessional.

• Jul 9, 2026PA
  Engine
  I’ve had my 2018 kia optima for round about two years.I only got this car because they refused to replace my previous engine on my 2015 Kia optima,even though I had a warranty but that’s another story(Kia on the Blvd).This car have given me problems from the start.Going through oil in less than a…

  I’ve had my 2018 kia optima for round about two years.I only got this car because they refused to replace my previous engine on my 2015 Kia optima,even though I had a warranty but that’s another story(Kia on the Blvd).This car have given me problems from the start.Going through oil in less than a month,which they can never find a leak,not being able to go over a certain speed before I start to hear noises.Ive complained about noises,they act like they can’t hear,and said nothing is wrong with the engine when previously checked.My check engine light has came on twice and both times the car was malfunctioning on the highway resulting in me have to get a tow.First it was plugs replacement now I need a whole new engine.I really don’t know what to do at this point.I believe they sold me a faulty car

• Jul 2, 2026WI
  Service brakes

  Purchased vehicle from a used car dealership. Had it a few months before brake pedal started losing pressure and going to floor. Had master cylinder replaced. A few months later, brake light started coming on when accelerating. New master cylinder had leaked into brake booster. Had master cylinder replaced along with brake booster. A few weeks later and brake pedal is losing pressure again

• Jun 25, 2026MO
  Engine
  The car burns oil within a week of getting an oil change. It was only driven a 200 miles before all of the oil was burned out. This has been a consistent issue with this car that the oil burns at an extreme rate. This is a safety risk as it could lead to engine overheating, the engine could stall…

  The car burns oil within a week of getting an oil change. It was only driven a 200 miles before all of the oil was burned out. This has been a consistent issue with this car that the oil burns at an extreme rate. This is a safety risk as it could lead to engine overheating, the engine could stall out due to the fast burning of the oil, or a potential fire hazard while driving. The oil light will come on for a second and at that point, the oil is already EXTREMELY too low. I brought the car to the mechanic and they have told me multiple times that there is no leak or anything. The mechanic says that the car simply is burning oil too fast.

• Jun 23, 2026ID1,500 mi
  Engine and engine cooling › Engine › Engine control module (ecu/ecm)
  The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal odor and a knocking sound coming from the engine. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the dealer was unable to duplicate the issue. The vehicle was not repaired. The…

  The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal odor and a knocking sound coming from the engine. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the dealer was unable to duplicate the issue. The vehicle was not repaired. The issue persisted. The contact stated that the vehicle was later returned to the dealer to be repaired under a service campaign involving the engine control unit (ECU). Shortly after the vehicle was repaired, the ECU failure message was displayed. The vehicle subsequently became inoperable. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 1,500.

• Jun 10, 2026GA
  Unknown or other

  2018 Kia Optima Dealer Ed Voyles Kia Smyrna began Recall SC340. Vehicle drove in running. Dealer flashed ECM software, discovered non-original engine/ECU. Vehicle now won’t start. Dealer document states 'will not start after recall.' Dealer refuses to restore to running condition citing prior repairs. This violates 49 USC 30120

• May 6, 2026OK121,000 mi
  Engine and engine cooling · Latches/locks/linkages
  The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while attempting to accelerate from a standing start the vehicle had experience sever jerking and hesitation. Also, the vehicle has experience oil consumption problems and the contact constantly added engine oil. The cause of the failures…

  The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while attempting to accelerate from a standing start the vehicle had experience sever jerking and hesitation. Also, the vehicle has experience oil consumption problems and the contact constantly added engine oil. The cause of the failures were not determine. Also, the hood latch had malfunctioned and the hood could not opened to add oil to the engine. The cause of the failures were not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failures but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 121,000.

• Apr 28, 2026VA
  Engine
  2018 Kia Optima LX, 2.4L GDI Theta II engine. Approximately 128,000 miles. Reporting severe internal oil consumption that has progressed to engine misfire and shaking, consistent with late-stage Theta II connecting rod bearing failure. The vehicle is now unsafe to drive and has been parked.…

  2018 Kia Optima LX, 2.4L GDI Theta II engine. Approximately 128,000 miles. Reporting severe internal oil consumption that has progressed to engine misfire and shaking, consistent with late-stage Theta II connecting rod bearing failure. The vehicle is now unsafe to drive and has been parked. Timeline: Purchased as a Certified Pre-Owned vehicle in December 2021. Excessive oil consumption began shortly after purchase. For approximately 4.5 years I have added about 1 quart of oil every 2 weeks to keep the engine from running dry. No external leaks have ever been found by any mechanic. Multiple independent mechanics attempted diagnosis and repair over this period. None resolved the issue. The vehicle has now developed a pronounced shake and apparent engine misfire, the textbook progression to rod bearing failure documented in NHTSA investigation PE19-004 and prior recalls/campaigns 17V-224, SC147, and SC172. Safety concerns: Sudden engine seizure or stall at highway speed creates a serious crash risk for me and surrounding traffic. Theta II 2.4L GDI rod bearing failure has been associated with under-hood fires. The defect develops gradually with no warning to the driver beyond elevated oil consumption, which is frequently dismissed as normal until catastrophic failure occurs. I am filing this complaint to document the failure and to add to NHTSA's data on the Theta II GDI 2.4L engine in 2018–2019 Optimas. This model year was excluded from the original 2017 recall but is included in the Hyundai and Kia Engine Litigation class settlement and the lifetime engine warranty extension. My vehicle's symptoms match the defect pattern exactly. I will pursue warranty engine replacement, but I want this safety failure on the federal record regardless of how Kia responds.

• Apr 15, 2026GA
  Engine
  Consuming fuel to the amount of roughly 1/2 quart per 150 miles. Vehicle has been inspected by mechanic and the oil pan, oil filter, and PCV valve has been replaced and engine oil UV dye added and cycled with no leaks found. The risk is that if not rigorously checked often, the engine will…

  Consuming fuel to the amount of roughly 1/2 quart per 150 miles. Vehicle has been inspected by mechanic and the oil pan, oil filter, and PCV valve has been replaced and engine oil UV dye added and cycled with no leaks found. The risk is that if not rigorously checked often, the engine will malfunction because the car runs out of oil. I have had my mechanic checking this car since I purchased it in January 2026. We have had to replace the oil pan and do two full oil changes with three separate quarts of oil being added in between all of that to keep it topped up. My mechanic agrees that the engine is consuming oil at an extremely high rate. My mechanic and a mechanic at the dealership where I purchased it are the only one who has inspected the car for this issue so far. The mechanic at the dealership is who recommended we replace the oil pan to see if that fixed the leak, which my personal mechanic did. Yes the critical engine failure lamp illuminates on the dashboard when the oil ran out the first time while I was driving it. This was how I discovered that there was an oil leak. This specific incident occurred three weeks after I purchased the car which I bought in mid-January of 2026.

• Mar 18, 2026FL
  Electrical system · Fuel/propulsion system · Unknown or other
  I am submitting this complaint regarding ongoing and persistent mechanical issues with my vehicle since the time of purchase. The vehicle has repeatedly shut off unexpectedly, creating a serious safety concern. Initially, I suspected the issue might be related to the battery, and I have replaced…

  I am submitting this complaint regarding ongoing and persistent mechanical issues with my vehicle since the time of purchase. The vehicle has repeatedly shut off unexpectedly, creating a serious safety concern. Initially, I suspected the issue might be related to the battery, and I have replaced the battery twice within the past 4 years. However, the problem has continued. In January, the vehicle began shaking and shutting down again. I took it to a mechanic, who diagnosed the issue as faulty spark plugs and an ignition coil. The diagnostic codes provided were P0303 and P0456, and the recommended repairs were completed. Approximately one month later, the vehicle began shutting off again. I then took it to the dealership, where I was advised that the valve cover gasket needed to be replaced, along with the belts, and that a fuel system cleaning was required. I subsequently had these repairs completed by my mechanic. Less than a week after completing those repairs, the vehicle once again began shutting down. A diagnostic scan then produced code P123300. In addition to these repeated shutdowns, the vehicle consumes an excessive amount of oil, has poor acceleration, and continues to stall unexpectedly both while driving on the road and while idling, such as in a drive thru. These recurring issues have made the vehicle unreliable and unsafe. I am concerned about the risk of the vehicle shutting off while in motion, which could lead to a dangerous situation. I am requesting that this matter be reviewed for potential defects or safety-related concerns.

• Mar 11, 2026GA
  Engine · Structure › Body · Unknown or other
  My teenage daughter regularly drives this vehicle. The vehicle began experiencing significant oil consumption, oil leaks, and intermittent loss of power. During an early inspection at an independent repair facility, a check engine code P1326 was identified. Due to the symptoms and diagnostic code…

  My teenage daughter regularly drives this vehicle. The vehicle began experiencing significant oil consumption, oil leaks, and intermittent loss of power. During an early inspection at an independent repair facility, a check engine code P1326 was identified. Due to the symptoms and diagnostic code, the repair facility advised that the vehicle could be heading toward engine failure and recommended that the vehicle be taken to an authorized dealership because potential engine issues may fall under manufacturer warranty coverage. The vehicle was then towed to an authorized dealership. During the first visit, the dealership retained the vehicle for an extended period of time, approximately two months. During that visit, several recommended services were completed, including replacement of spark plugs, ignition wires, and replacement of the valve cover gasket along with other recommended maintenance. During that visit, it was also stated that the vehicle has a known issue with excessive oil consumption. Because of this, the oil level is checked weekly and oil is added as needed. I also informed the dealership that the independent repair facility had identified code P1326, but I was told that the dealership diagnostic codes were different. After these repairs, the vehicle experienced another incident where it lost power and began idling roughly while being driven on a busy highway. The vehicle was taken back to the dealership. During that visit, it was stated that the fuel injector harness and oil pressure sensor needed to be replaced. The dealership also indicated that the spark plugs needed to be replaced again, even though they had been replaced at the same dealership less than a year earlier. At that time, I asked if the vehicle would be safe to drive for approximately one week because I needed to travel out of town and my daughter would need the vehicle. The dealership advised that it was safe to drive during that time. The vehicle was then brought back to the deal

• Mar 8, 2026CA
  Structure › Body
  About a month ago my paint on my 2018 Kia Optima snow white pearl car started bubbling, then it turned into peeling and has since then been coming off more and more. It is occurring right under the back seat of the drivers side window. Reading into this issue more, it is happening to many who own a…

  About a month ago my paint on my 2018 Kia Optima snow white pearl car started bubbling, then it turned into peeling and has since then been coming off more and more. It is occurring right under the back seat of the drivers side window. Reading into this issue more, it is happening to many who own a Kia Optima owners, especially those who own the snow white pearl color. Kia is not helping customers who are out of warranty but since this is a manufacturer defect they should be, even if they are out of warranty.

• Jan 9, 2026GA
  Engine · Unknown or other
  It started with the oil. I constantly have to add oil. when it first started that’s what I was doing just adding oil. Then it got worse the engine light started to come on and it no longer gives me the low oil warning. I took it to the dealership and it was there for about three weeks. They said…

  It started with the oil. I constantly have to add oil. when it first started that’s what I was doing just adding oil. Then it got worse the engine light started to come on and it no longer gives me the low oil warning. I took it to the dealership and it was there for about three weeks. They said that the car needed a system update, they updated it and i took it home after that. Its been about a year since then and my car is still having the same issue and getting worse. I had to change the spark plugs a few times since then i also have oil coming out the back pipe and it’s been doing this since before I took it to the dealership. I also had to spend money on a rental car while it was at the dealership.

• Jan 8, 2026GA
  Electrical system · Engine · Service brakes
  I turned the car off, it had difficulty turning back on and the brake pedal got really hard. I had to wait about 30-45 minutes and then I was able to get the car started and brake pedal back to normal and no lights. Recently, I left the car on to run into a shop real quick and come back out. When I…

  I turned the car off, it had difficulty turning back on and the brake pedal got really hard. I had to wait about 30-45 minutes and then I was able to get the car started and brake pedal back to normal and no lights. Recently, I left the car on to run into a shop real quick and come back out. When I got back to the car, the power steering light, battery, and warning light?(amber triangle with ! In the center of it) were all on. I rev the engine and the issue went away for a quick second but then came back on. To avoid turning my car off and being stuck, I just shift to reverse and tried to leave. I’m backing out of the spot and now the backup camera is going in and out lights flashing on the dash and I’m trying to brake but the brake pedal isn’t registering and next thing you know, I’ve backed into a guard rail. On the way to drop my kids off at the babysitter, I was coming to a stop sign, and my car wouldn’t brake, i went through oncoming trafic and had to run off the road. KIA did a multi point inspection a few months apart from one another. One the car tested fine, then the second time they are saying a brake booster and no engine oil in the vehicle and that the car is basically trash. The oil light goes on and off and I can smell burning oil. I still owe 7 grand on this car and I just bought it last year and it was seamingly fine.

• Jan 7, 2026CA
  Electrical system · Engine · Unknown or other
  I was sold an unsafe vehicle at J and J Auto house 6446 Wilshire Bl LA,CA 90022. Dealer withheld condition of car . Had car three months and was stranded on highway. Car was towed to Kia dealer and diagnosed with complete engine failure. Dealer will not honor limited warranty, shady sales…

  I was sold an unsafe vehicle at J and J Auto house 6446 Wilshire Bl LA,CA 90022. Dealer withheld condition of car . Had car three months and was stranded on highway. Car was towed to Kia dealer and diagnosed with complete engine failure. Dealer will not honor limited warranty, shady sales practices withheld recall info during sale, won’t allow his mechanic to look at car, dodged calls, denied request to return car for refund

• Dec 31, 2025OH
  Steering

  Steering column coupler went bad. Unable to swap out the coupler alone ($12 part) and had to get a whole new column (over $1200). Some of the Kia's around this one's make and model were recalled but not this one. Without this repair driving would have been dangerous.

• Dec 23, 2025CA
  Engine
  My engine is under the Kia class action lawsuit for the KDS with the rod bearing clearance issues. I have done all my oil changes with paper work available. I got the update to the ECU several years ago as needed to be covered. Now my engine has failed and I took to the dealer to check but they…

  My engine is under the Kia class action lawsuit for the KDS with the rod bearing clearance issues. I have done all my oil changes with paper work available. I got the update to the ECU several years ago as needed to be covered. Now my engine has failed and I took to the dealer to check but they said I didn't have a specific code and that they can't do any testing to verify it would be under the warranty. I called Kia Customer Care and have talked to them several times. They have told me there wasn't a need for the code and that the dealer could do other testing. The dealer stated that they can't do the BCT test due to a cylinder not having compression. I told Kia this is all related to the bearing going out and they said they can't do anything if the dealer said it's not under warranty. So I have now been going in circles with kia and dealer since 11/18/25. I sent kia another email on 12/15/25 and another on 12/18/25 due to not receiving a response. It's now 12/23/25 and still no response. They have a service bulletin that I seen online that was for dealers if any issues with testing they had other options but still nothing has been done.

• Dec 10, 2025NM
  Engine
  While driving my 2018 Kia Optima S, the car suddenly jerked, lost power, and stalled in traffic. Multiple warning lights came on at the same time including the oil light, battery light, and check engine light. I had no acceleration and the brakes became very hard to press. The vehicle had to be…

  While driving my 2018 Kia Optima S, the car suddenly jerked, lost power, and stalled in traffic. Multiple warning lights came on at the same time including the oil light, battery light, and check engine light. I had no acceleration and the brakes became very hard to press. The vehicle had to be towed for safety reasons. The Kia dealership inspected the vehicle and confirmed internal engine failure due to “cylinder failure” and stated the engine needs complete replacement. This failure occurred without any external leaks and without warning other than the sudden loss of power. The dealer stated the issue is not covered, even though it is clearly an internal engine malfunction. This is a major safety hazard because the stall happened while I was in active traffic. A sudden loss of power and braking ability puts me and others at risk of an accident. The problem has been confirmed by the Kia dealership through diagnostic testing. The vehicle is still available for inspection. Warning lamps appeared only at the moment of failure, giving no advance warning. This appears to be related to the ongoing engine defects in Kia vehicles involving oil starvation, loss of compression, cylinder scoring, and internal engine failure. Cylinder failure and sudden stalling should be investigated as part of the known safety-related engine defects affecting this model.

• Dec 3, 2025CA
  Unknown or other

  Paint on all four door handles are bubbling and chipping. I rarely use the backseat handles and passenger door, which makes it more likely to be a malfunction in whatever paint was used for the handles. There is no fading, chipping, or bubbling on other parts of my car.

• Nov 29, 2025GA
  Structure › Body

  Paint peeling from driver side door.

• Nov 26, 2025CACrash1 injury
  Air bags

  I was rearended, all air bags deployed except steeringwheel

Defect investigations

NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.

• Loss of Motive Power

  DP22003Opened Sep 12, 2022Closed Dec 12, 2023
  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain Hyundai Motor America, Inc. and Kia America, Inc. vehicles…

  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain Hyundai Motor America, Inc. and Kia America, Inc. vehicles spanning Model Years (MY) 2005-2021. The Petitioners cited examples of complaints indicating that the subject vehicles were experiencing rapid loss of engine oil due to oil drain plug back outs, resulting in loss of motive power and/or catastrophic engine damage. Additional complaints were provided which alleged that the oil drain pans lack sufficient structural integrity and are susceptible to cracking. The petition itself can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI number 11481745. On September 12, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Defect Petition (DP22-003) to evaluate the Petitioners’ request. The Petitioners have provided additional complaints within four supplemental letters dated January 31, 2023, March 21, 2023, May 23, 2023, and August 4, 2023. ODI’s evaluation included the review and analysis of the complaints and supporting information submitted by the Petitioners, as well as additional complaints submitted directly to NHTSA which referenced either the oil drain plug or a crack in the oil pan. After reviewing the available data, ODI has not identified evidence that would support opening a defect investigation into the oil drain pan assemblies of the subject vehicles. Based on a review of the available information, a loss of motive power resulting from an oil drain plug back out has not occurred between the initial sale of a vehicle and the completion of its first oil change. If during an oil change service, a technician fails to remove the existing drain plug gasket before installing a new gasket, it is likely that a proper seal between the drain plug and the oil pan will not be made. An improper seal between the drain plug and oil pan could lead to the backing out on the drain plug, resulting in the sudden loss of oil while driving. Additionally, the provided examples of oil pan cracks were localized to the immediate vicinity of the oil drain plug and/or appeared to be the result of direct-contact with a tool during servicing.  There is no information to support that a vehicle-based defect exists relating to the oil pan assembly, and instead the documented incidents are related to the failure to follow the proper maintenance procedures during oil change service. In October 2023, Hyundai published a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that provided detailed instructions for oil change service on its gasoline powered vehicles, specifically highlighting the need to remove and replace the existing drain plug gasket prior to reinstalling the drain plug. After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, the information already in NHTSA's possession, and the potential risks to motor vehicle safety implicated by the petitioners' allegations, NHTSA does not believe that a formal investigation is warranted. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA’s reasons for denial of the petition will be published. The reference numbers for the complaints to NHTSA cited by the petitioner can be found in the petition submission documents in the public file for DP22-003. To review those complaints and the additional complaints ODI added to its evaluation which are cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.

• Electrical overstress

  EA19001Opened Apr 19, 2019Closed Sep 19, 2024Recall 20V024
  The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation to determine if the failure of airbags to deploy during severe crashes, in certain vehicles, was the result of a safety related defect.  During the investigation a complex failure was studied that can result in non-deployment of subject vehicle air…

  The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation to determine if the failure of airbags to deploy during severe crashes, in certain vehicles, was the result of a safety related defect.  During the investigation a complex failure was studied that can result in non-deployment of subject vehicle air bags and other restraint system devices in severe crash events. The subject vehicles may be equipped with an airbag control unit (ACU) for the supplemental restraint system (SRS) Electronic Control Unit (ECU) manufactured by ZF-TRW.  The ECU receives signals from crash sensors mounted in the vehicle and deploys the vehicle air bags and seat belt pretensioners in accordance with manufacturer design specifications.  The ECU in the subject vehicles contains a model DS84 application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) which controls the communication of the crash sensor signal, firing commands (i.e., when to deploy the airbag(s) and/or pretensioners), and fault information (e.g., diagnostic trouble codes). In September 2016, FCA announced recall 16V-668 for certain model year (MY) 2010 to 2014 Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep products manufactured with the subject ZF-TRW ACU.  In this recall, FCA discussed an EOS condition that resulted in a failure of the subject DS84 ASIC, which caused air bag non-deployment.  FCA noted that the defect condition had only been observed in vehicles equipped with sensor harnessing routed across the front of the vehicle.  Other FCA vehicles that also used the subject ACU, but were not equipped with cross-car harnessing, had not experienced EOS failures, despite similar time in service. During the course of this investigation, ODI sent two separate Information Request (IR) letters to six vehicle manufactures (including FCA, Hyundai, Honda, Kia, Mitsubishi, and Toyota) and one IR letter to ZF-TRW.  These IR letters resulted in ODI receiving comprehensive data from these manufacturers and suppliers. Studies of this data found that the DS84 ASIC does not have sufficient protection against negative electrical transients or electrical overstress (“EOS”) that can be generated in certain severe crashes.  An electrical transient occurs when the electrical power supplied to a circuit changes momentarily over a short duration of time.   In these severe crash cases, the crash sensors and other powered wiring can be damaged and short circuited so as to create a negative electrical transient of sufficient intensity and duration (that are outside the vehicle manufacturer's specification) to damage the ASIC before the restraint device deployment signal is received by the SRS ECU.  This damaged signal can lead to incomplete or nondeployment of the air bags and/or pretensioners.  Airbag non-deployment and/or lack of pretensioner operation can increase the risk or severity of injury in a crash.A total of 8 fatalities and 14 injuries were associated with known EOS events. The common element in all investigated manufacturers vehicles is the SRS ECU containing a DS84 ASIC manufactured by ZF-TRW.  The risk associated with the ASIC is equally shared among all OEMS involved in the investigation.  The actual real-world risk can be mitigated by other factors which were assessed by ODI during this investigation. The first mitigating factor involves protections built into the ACU design which protect the DS84 ASIC from damage.  There are multiple strategies and levels of protection employed by different OEMs that provide effective EOS mitigation.  The two most common strategies at the ACU level are circuit protection diodes on the remote senor signal lines, and current limiting resistors that protect critical components. The second mitigating factor is found at the vehicle level and involves the location and routing of the wires leading from the crash sensors to the SRS ECU.  If the wires are well protected in a crash and are not routed with other power wires carrying large currents, the risk for an EOS event is significantly reduced or eliminated. These design specific factors combine to produce a spectrum of risk for the vehicles equipped with ACUs using the DS84 ASIC.  Given the many of years of field exposure, it is possible to divide the subject population into two groups; vehicles which have experienced EOS events, and vehicles which have not experienced EOS field events. Four of the six OEMs involved in this investigation have experienced EOS field events on at least one of their models equipped with a DS84 ASIC.  All vehicle models (including the Toyota models identified in the Failure Report Summary of the opening resume for this investigation) with field events have been recalled.  In an abundance of caution, ODI kept this investigation open five years to monitor field performance and did not identify any field events on vehicles not included in existing safety recalls. Given the spectrum of risk identified in this investigation and that all vehicles with a demonstrated unreasonable risk have been recalled, ODI is closing this investigation. ODI is closing this investigation with the following manufacturer safety recalls: 16V-668, 18E-043, 18V-137, 18V-363, and 20V-024.  With the recall actions taken by the subject vehicle and equipment manufacturers, this investigation is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exists on other model or model year vehicles outside of the recall scopes. The agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.

Service bulletins

Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.

• 11009492TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: HEATING, VENTILATION, AND AIR CONDITIONING (HVAC) BLOWER MOTOR FUSE RELOCATION - This bulletin provides the procedure to relocate the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) blower motor 40-ampere fuse on some 2016-2020MY Optima (JFa) vehicles produced from August 28, 2015 through June 23, 2020 which may experience an inoperative blower motor due to a blown multi-fuse at position #3. The HVAC system provides cooling and heating to help maintain a comfortable environment inside the vehicle cabin. The blower motor provides primary airflow for the HVAC system. Extended use of the HVAC system at high fan speeds may cause damage to the multi-fuse terminals for the HVAC blower motor circuit, which can cause the blower motor to become inoperative, resulting in reduced heat and air conditioning.
• 11001594TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: ANTI-THEFT S/W LOGIC UPGRADE & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2303) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides the procedure to upgrade the software logic of the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Module (BCM) system on certain 2011-2015MY Optima (TF), 2012-2015MY Optima (QF) and 2016-2020MY Optima (JF, JFa) vehicles produced within the dates outlined on page 10, which may not be equipped with an immobilizer. This logic upgrade will add anti-theft ignition start logic to the vehicle's system operation which activates when the vehicle is locked with the use of the key fob.
• 11000787This bulletin provides information relating to the correct transmission fluid type and fill quantity requirement for each Kia model. A flush is required ONLY when a transmission is replaced.
• 10252085TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802Y/Z) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previously published PI1802 titled "Knock Sensor Detection System - ECU Logic Improvement"; equipped w/THETA II engine. Specifically, this bulletin provides instructions on which procedures to follow if, after installation of the KSDS, any one of the subject vehicles below returns to the dealer with Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P1326 (Knock Signal Range/Performance).
• 10240563TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: KIA GENUINE REMOTE START CONTROL MODULE UPGRADE FOR ANTI-THEFT LOGIC COMPATIBILITY (CS2310) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information to update the software logic in the Kia Genuine Remote Start Control Module on certain 2012-2022MY model vehicles listed on page 7. Vehicles equipped with a Kia Genuine Remote Start feature and have had the Anti-Theft software logic (CS230*) applied to the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Module (BCM) may experience five (5) inadvertent honks after starting the vehicle with the remote start feature.
• 10240263CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER RE-NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner re-notification advising that Kia has developed a software upgrade that can be installed on the vehicle to restrict the operation of the vehicle's ignition system should a locked vehicle be the subject of a break-in and theft attempt without the key. This software upgrade will be available to the customer free of charge for eighteen (18) months from the date of the original letter. When the software upgrade is complete, Kia will also provide the customer with window stickers that can be applied to the vehicle to discourage a break-in.
• 10240262CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER RE-NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner re-notification advising that Kia has developed a software upgrade that can be installed on the vehicle to restrict the operation of the vehicle's ignition system should a locked vehicle be the subject of a break-in and theft attempt without the key. This software upgrade will be available to the customer free of charge for eighteen (18) months from the date of the original letter. When the software upgrade is complete, Kia will also provide the customer with window stickers that can be applied to the vehicle to discourage a break-in.
• 10239713TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: ANTI-THEFT S/W LOGIC UPGRADE & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2303) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides the procedure to upgrade the software logic of the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Module (BCM) system on certain 2011-2015MY Optima (TF), 2012-2015MY Optima (QF) and 2016-2020MY Optima (JF, JFa) vehicles produced within the dates outlined on page 10, which may not be equipped with an immobilizer. This logic upgrade will add anti-theft ignition start logic to the vehicle's system operation which activates when the vehicle is locked.
• 10239108TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: KIA GENUINE REMOTE START CONTROL MODULE UPGRADE FOR ANTI-THEFT LOGIC COMPATIBILITY (CS2310) - This bulletin provides information to update the software logic in the Kia Genuine Remote Start Control Module on certain 2012-2022MY model vehicles listed on page 6. Vehicles equipped with a Kia Genuine Remote Start feature and have had the Anti-Theft software logic (CS230*) applied to the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Module (BCM) may experience five (5) inadvertent honks after starting the vehicle with the remote start feature.
• 10236643TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: ANTI-THEFT S/W LOGIC UPGRADE & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2303) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides the procedure to upgrade the software logic of the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Module (BCM) system on certain 2011-2015MY Optima (TF), 2012-2015MY Optima (QF) and 2016-2020MY Optima (JF, JFa) vehicles produced within the dates outlined on page 10, which may not be equipped with an immobilizer. This logic upgrade will add anti-theft ignition start logic to the vehicle's system operation which activates when the vehicle is locked.
• 10233306CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia has developed a software upgrade that can be installed on the vehicle to restrict the operation of the vehicle's ignition system should a locked vehicle be the subject of a break-in and theft attempt without the key. This software upgrade will be available to the customer free of charge for eighteen (18) months from the date of this letter. When the software upgrade is complete, Kia will also provide the customer with window stickers that can be applied to your vehicle to discourage a break-in.
• 10232943TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: ANTI-THEFT S/W LOGIC UPGRADE & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2303) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides the procedure to upgrade the software logic of the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Module (BCM) system on certain 2011-2015MY Optima (TF), 2012-2015MY Optima (QF) and 2016-2020MY Optima (JF, JFa) vehicles produced within the dates outlined on page 10, which may not be equipped with an immobilizer. This logic upgrade will add anti-theft ignition start logic to the vehicle's system operation.
• 10232178CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia has developed a software upgrade that can be installed on the vehicle to restrict the operation of the vehicle's ignition system should a locked vehicle be the subject of a break-in and theft attempt without the key. This software upgrade will be available to the customer free of charge for eighteen (18) months from the date of this letter. When the software upgrade is complete, Kia will also provide the customer with window stickers that can be applied to your vehicle to discourage a break-in.
• 10232113TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: ANTI-THEFT S/W LOGIC UPGRADE & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2303) - This bulletin provides the procedure to upgrade the software logic of the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Module (BCM) system on certain 2011-2015MY Optima (TF), 2012-2015MY Optima (QF) and 2016-2020MY Optima (JF, JFa) vehicles produced within the dates outlined on page 10, which may not be equipped with an immobilizer. This logic upgrade will add anti-theft ignition start logic to the vehicle's system operation.
• 10230492TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: SERVICE ACTION: BMS/OPU/MCU LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (SA411) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides the procedure to improve the logic of the Battery Management System (BMS), Oil Pump Control Unit (OPU) and Motor Control Unit (MCU) on some 2017-2019MY Optima (JF P/HEV) vehicles, produced from August 25, 2016 through September 13, 2018 (refer to page 8) in order to improve the BMS diagnosis logic, OPU judgment logic for DTC P1B77 (High Voltage Battery Pre-Charging fault) and MCU communication logic.
• 10226555TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: TRANSMISSION FLUID APPLICATION GUIDE - This bulletin provides information relating to the correct transmission fluid type and fill quantity requirement for each Kia model. A flush is required ONLY when a transmission is replaced, refer to applicable vehicles in the chart starting on page 2.
• 10225574TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: FUEL PUMP FILTER INSPECTION/REPLACEMENT - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information associated with the 'Warranty Extension Program' (WTY028) to inspect and, if necessary, replace the fuel pump filter assembly on 2016-2020MY Optima (JFa) vehicles produced from August 28, 2015 through June 23, 2020, for repairs that may be necessary to address a low-pressure fuel pump failure to be covered for 15 years / 150,000 miles, whichever comes first starting from the date the vehicle was first put into service. The affected vehicles may exhibit an intermittent reduction in engine power, contain an active or stored DTC P1233 and/or exhibit a 'No Start' condition due to a cracked fuel pump filter housing.
• 10225572TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: FUEL PUMP FILTER INSPECTION/REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides information associated with the 'Warranty Extension Program' (WTY028) to inspect and, if necessary, replace the fuel pump filter assembly on 2016-2020MY Optima (JFa) vehicles produced from August 28, 2015 through June 23, 2020, for repairs that may be necessary to address a low-pressure fuel pump failure to be covered for 15 years / 150,000 miles, whichever comes first starting from the date the vehicle was first put into service. The affected vehicles may exhibit an intermittent reduction in engine power, contain an active or stored DTC P1233 and/or exhibit a 'No Start' condition due to a cracked fuel pump filter housing.
• 10220346TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: MAINTENANCE REMINDER FEATURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area.This bulletin provides information on setting the "Service Interval Reminder" feature available on most 2014-2023MY Kia vehicles (refer to model list on page 2). If the service interval reminder is set, the customer will be informed to have the next maintenance service performed, which can positively affect vehicle longevity and performance. Refer to TSB ENG241 for 2023MY~ vehicles equipped with the Oil Life Management System (OLMS) feature not included in table on page 2.
• 10219692TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: BEARING CLEARANCE TESTER (BCT) PROCEDURES - This bulletin provides information regarding test procedure of the Bearing Clearance Tester (BCT) Special Service Tool (SST). The SST comes pre-calibrated from the supplier however, in some cases, due to variable shop compressor air pressure, the SST may need to be re-calibrated to ensure that the tool provides accurate readings when testing the engine rod bearing wear. The calibration and BCT measuring point maintenance is included in this bulletin.
• 10217678VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: THETA 2.0L T-GDI ULEV LOGIC IMPROVEMENT FOR EMISSIONS (SC205) - This bulletin provides the procedure to update the emissions-related logic of the Engine Control Unit (ECU) on some 2016-2020MY Optima (JFa) ULEV vehicles, equipped with 2.0L T-GDI Theta engines, produced from April 21, 2015 through May 22, 2020, in order to improve fuel quantity learning to decrease the deterioration of the rear Oxygen Sensor.
• 10217677VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia is conducting a Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign to update the software programming on your vehicle's Engine Control Module (SC205).
• 10217676Sc205_poc: proof of correction card
• 10217675Sc205_stkr: voluntary emissions service campaign completion sticker
• 10217674VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: QUESTION AND ANSWER - This document is the Question and Answer Guide containing the most frequently asked questions regarding the Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign (SC205).
• 10217673VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: DEALER PARTS AND SERVICE MANAGER MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer Parts and Service Managers that Kia is conducting a Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign on 2016-2020 MY Kia Optima vehicles equipped with the 2.0L Turbo-GDI engine to update the emission related logic of the Engine Control Module "ECM" with an improved version to ensure compliance with emissions regulations.
• 10217672VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: DEALER PRINCIPAL MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer principals that Kia is conducting a Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign on 2016-2020 MY Kia Optima vehicles equipped with the 2.0L Turbo-GDI engine to update the emission related logic of the Engine Control Module "ECM" with an improved version to ensure compliance with emissions regulations.
• 10216907WARRANTY EXTENSION: REIMBURSEMENT FORM - This document is a Reimbursement Request form that was mailed with the customer letter advising them to submit the form if they had paid for repairs for this same matter prior to the warranty extension program launch.
• 10216906WARRANTY EXTENSION: QUESTION AND ANSWER - This document is the Question and Answer Guide containing the most frequently asked questions regarding the Warranty Extension (WTY028).
• 10216905WARRANTY EXTENSION: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia is extending the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage for repairs related to low-pressure fuel pump failure in 2016-2020 MY Optima vehicles manufactured at a Kia assembly plant in the U.S. from 5 years / 60,000 miles to 15 years / 150,000 miles, whichever comes first, starting from the date the vehicle was first put into service.
• 10216904WARRANTY EXTENSION: DEALER PARTS AND SERVICE MANAGER MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer Parts and Service Managers that Kia is extending the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage for repairs related to low-pressure fuel pump failure for 2016-2020 MY Optima vehicles manufactured at a Kia assembly plant in the U.S. from 5 years/60,000 miles to 15 years/ 150,000 miles, whichever comes first, starting from the date the vehicle was first put into service. This warranty extension is to address certain concerns related to the potential failure of the low-pressure fuel pump.
• 10216903WARRANTY EXTENSION: DEALER PRINCIPAL MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer principals that Kia is extending the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage for repairs related to low-pressure fuel pump failure for 2016-2020 MY Optima vehicles manufactured at a Kia assembly plant in the U.S. from 5 years/60,000 miles to 15 years/ 150,000 miles, whichever comes first, starting from the date the vehicle was first put into service. This warranty extension is to address certain concerns related to the potential failure of the low-pressure fuel pump.
• 10210431PITSTOP: INJECTOR HARNESS ROUTING FOR PI1802Y/Z AND PI1803Y/Z ENGINE REPLACEMENTS - This bulletin provides information to address a no-start or hard start with poor running condition after engine replacement under PI1802Y/Z or PI1803Y/Z. Some replacement long blocks may come with pre-installed fuel rail, injectors, and injector wiring harness. If the condition is present, it is possible that the injector harness was not installed correctly. The connections may be swapped from cylinder No. 1 and cylinder No. 4, and from cylinder No. 2 and cylinder No. 3.
• 10209438TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION NU/GAMMA/THETA/KAPPA ENGINES - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information on diagnosing and/or repairing some 2011-2021MY vehicles (refer to the tables on pages 8-9 for applicable models and engine), which may exhibit a symptom of excessive oil consumption.
• 10206642TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION NU/GAMMA/THETA/KAPPA ENGINES - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information on diagnosing and/or repairing some 2011-2021MY vehicles (refer to the tables on pages 8-9 for applicable models and engine), which may exhibit a symptom of excessive oil consumption.
• 10205865PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802Y/Z) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previously published PI1802 titled "Knock Sensor Detection System - ECU Logic Improvement" equipped w/THETA II engine. Specifically, this bulletin provides instructions on which procedures to follow if, after installation of the KSDS, any one of the subject vehicles below returns to the dealer with Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P1326 (Knock Signal Range/Performance).
• 10205426TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION NU/GAMMA/THETA/KAPPA ENGINES - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information on diagnosing and/or repairing some 2011-2021MY vehicles (refer to the tables on pages 8-9 for applicable models and engine), which may exhibit a symptom of excessive oil consumption.
• 10203695This bulletin provides information regarding test procedure of the Bearing Clearance Tester (BCT) Special Service Tool (SST). The SST comes pre-calibrated from the supplier however, in some cases, due to variable shop compressor air pressure, the SST may need to be re-calibrated to ensure that the tool provides accurate readings when testing the engine rod bearing wear. The calibration and BCT measuring point maintenance is included in this bulletin.
• 10203658PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802Y/Z) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previously published PI1802 titled "Knock Sensor Detection System - ECU Logic Improvement" equipped w/THETA II engine. Specifically, this bulletin provides instructions on which procedures to follow if, after installation of the KSDS, any one of the subject vehicles below returns to the dealer with Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P1326 (Knock Signal Range/Performance).
• 10202227TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: REPLACEMENT OF MOBIS C-MDPS SMALL BEARING - This bulletin provides the procedure to replace the small bearing of the Column Motor Driven Power Steering (C-MDPS) unit on the vehicles listed below, which may exhibit an abnormal noise when steering left and right. This may be caused by foreign substances in the MDPS worm shaft small bearing. On some vehicles when the steering wheel is rotated a scraping noise can be heard originating from the lower bearing on the Worm Gear Small Bearing and does not affect the steering effort.

Every KIA Optima model year

Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.