2014 KIA Optima Hybrid
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › KIA › Optima Hybrid › 2014
These records cover every 2014 KIA Optima Hybrid. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Owner complaints
31 complaints5 involved a crash1 involved a fire2 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Electrical system · Fuel/propulsion system · Power train
While driving during colder weather the car will show HEV (hybrid system) warning and tell you to shut it off. I was in a construction zone with no where to pull over when the car died and lost all propulsion and brakes. This seems to be a common problem on KIA Optima hybrids from 2012-2015.
- Electrical system › Propulsion system › Traction battery › Management system/energy control module (bms/becm)
The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima Hybrid. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power with a battery management system (BMS) message displayed. The contact desperately depressed the brake pedal, but the pedal became firm, causing the contact to almost crash into another…
The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima Hybrid. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power with a battery management system (BMS) message displayed. The contact desperately depressed the brake pedal, but the pedal became firm, causing the contact to almost crash into another vehicle. The contact was able to pull into a parking lot, turned off and restarted the vehicle, but the BMS message and check engine warning was light illuminated. The dealer was contacted but the vehicle needed be diagnosed. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 84,000.
- Engine
The contact owns 2014 Kia Optima Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the "Check Hybrid System - Turn Off Engine" message displayed on the instrument panel and the vehicle stalled. On two occasions, the vehicle shifted to LIMP Mode. The vehicle was towed to the…
The contact owns 2014 Kia Optima Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the "Check Hybrid System - Turn Off Engine" message displayed on the instrument panel and the vehicle stalled. On two occasions, the vehicle shifted to LIMP Mode. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and the engine was replaced twice. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was filed. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 58,997.
- Engine
The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima Hybrid. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the engine seized without warning. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 140,000. The contact stated that the dealer and the manufacturer were notified but refused to help with the issue.
- Hybrid propulsion system
The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at an unknown speed, the hybrid system malfunctioned. The contact stated that during the failure the vehicle decelerated and lost motive power. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated.…
The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at an unknown speed, the hybrid system malfunctioned. The contact stated that during the failure the vehicle decelerated and lost motive power. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer and remained with the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 75,000. Error message comes up on the dashboard.
- Engine
The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60 MPH, the vehicle decelerated with the "check hybrid battery and check engine" warning lights displayed. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer who diagnosed that the engine was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 122,000.
- Electrical system · Electronic stability control (esc) · Engine
On 6/07/19 while travelling to work on the highway, travelling about 65 mph, the dash display read check hybrid system, and suddenly shut down. Engine stopped running, steering wheel began stiffening, I coasted from the passing lane to the right lane and then to the shoulder without incident and…
On 6/07/19 while travelling to work on the highway, travelling about 65 mph, the dash display read check hybrid system, and suddenly shut down. Engine stopped running, steering wheel began stiffening, I coasted from the passing lane to the right lane and then to the shoulder without incident and was able to safely park the car. KIA failed to provide roadside assistance since the car has over 60,000 miles(actually has 95,000 miles), however I am still under the 10yr/100,000 miles warranty. The car was towed to the KIA dealership via my insurance coverage. After the assessment I was told I had a blown main hybrid fuse. Charged $201.24 to replace the fuse. I present this as a safety issue because had I been on a major highway with my grandchildren in the middle of traffic, there would be no way possible to reach a lane shoulder without possible harm or death. According to kia's own "technical operations notice - ps515(rev 2, 02/28/2019" dated august 2017), they are fully aware of this problem. The battery fuse IS to be replaced from a 125 amp to a 150 amp. This fuse IS part of the safety plug located in the trunk. As a owner I should have been warned of this possibly happening to the car and given the option to have this fuse replaced....at kia's expense. For those still driving this year and make optima hybrid,please be aware of this occurrence. The 125 amp hv battery fuse should be replaced with the newer 150 amp hv battery fuse(part #375f2 4r150. See kia's pitstop: technical operations notice #ps515. Unfortunately my communication with KIA proved fruitless.
- Electrical system · Engine
I was traveling on the freeway when the dashboard read 'hev system warning. Pull over and shut off vehicle.' engine then shut off. After nearly being hit by a semi-truck, I coasted from the carpool to the off ramp exit. The vehicle was able to travel at approximately 5-15mph and made it home…
I was traveling on the freeway when the dashboard read 'hev system warning. Pull over and shut off vehicle.' engine then shut off. After nearly being hit by a semi-truck, I coasted from the carpool to the off ramp exit. The vehicle was able to travel at approximately 5-15mph and made it home safely. I towed my vehicle to the citrus valley motors in the city of ontario. They ran diagnostics stating it was a fuse in the engine and it will cost me $686.97. KIA released information to the public stating they know the 125 fuse amp for the hybrid systems was the wrong size which can cause a 'blow out' turning the engine off while driving. KIA stayed they needed to replace it with the 150 amp fuse in order to sustain the power to the engine. I called KIA expressing my concern under the federal policy 'lemon law.' KIA told me 'your warranty IS expired by 3 weeks. We can not give you assistance.' my vehicle sits in the shop with a wrong size fuse and want me to pay for the correct size that should have been placed in their in the first place.
- Electrical system · Engine · Unknown or other
Driving veh on hwy at about 70 miles per hour when within seconds the car just turns off completely. Scary!!! after taking to local KIA dealership and them being stumped so much they called and spoke to KIA engineers,( tech line case ref #13028149) I was told I needed to replace the pressure…
Driving veh on hwy at about 70 miles per hour when within seconds the car just turns off completely. Scary!!! after taking to local KIA dealership and them being stumped so much they called and spoke to KIA engineers,( tech line case ref #13028149) I was told I needed to replace the pressure source unit. I did, did not fix it. In fact when I returned the part they said it IS now not working. Mechanic suggested a new ABS system. I also replaced that.... Veh IS still not repaired. I have spent over $1600 and can still not operate my veh safely. KIA does not have a clear answer, and I have seen this complaint on this site more than once. please recall this vehicle before someone gets hurt.
- Unknown or other
While I was driver on the street. A warning check hev system light came on. Then the car electrical system just shutdown and I lost all power. The car went from working perfect to completely out of power in 30 second.
- Electrical system · Power train
Driving normally, hcu error popped up on nav display as well as drivers display. Told to pull over immediately and turn off engine. I was traveling on once he interstate, by the time I got into the emergency lane the car completely lost all power. Turned on emergency hazard lights and after 5…
Driving normally, hcu error popped up on nav display as well as drivers display. Told to pull over immediately and turn off engine. I was traveling on once he interstate, by the time I got into the emergency lane the car completely lost all power. Turned on emergency hazard lights and after 5 minutes the car was completely dead. Called a tow truck and brought it to rock river KIA in rockdoed, il. Later was told that the engine had seized and the hybrid battery was no longer holding a charge. Estimated 14,000 repair cost.
- Engine · Vehicle speed control
When starting up the car you can smell a rubber burning smell comimg from the air vents. When driving the vehicle sometimes while driving it the car accelerates on its own.
- Electrical system · Engine · Unknown or other
Stalled out in the middle of I-25, going about 70 mph and rush hour. I was about 40 min from home still on my everyday communte. I am seeing very many others with the same issue. This has me and my family in an unsafe situation daily and KIA will not take responsibility for it. There clearly needs…
Stalled out in the middle of I-25, going about 70 mph and rush hour. I was about 40 min from home still on my everyday communte. I am seeing very many others with the same issue. This has me and my family in an unsafe situation daily and KIA will not take responsibility for it. There clearly needs to be a recall on the same (or very similar) issue on the recall on the gas version of this vehicle. We shouldn't wait till someone gets killed or seriously injured first.
- Steering
I've had this vehicle for about 10 months (purchased oct. 2017). a few weeks after I bought it I noticed more and more that the steering IS very difficult to control and keep in a straight line, especially on the freeway above 55 or 60 mph. ( while driving on the freeway the car starts to drift…
I've had this vehicle for about 10 months (purchased oct. 2017). a few weeks after I bought it I noticed more and more that the steering IS very difficult to control and keep in a straight line, especially on the freeway above 55 or 60 mph. ( while driving on the freeway the car starts to drift slowly, I try to re-adjust the steering and while turning the steering wheel, nothing happens. I turn a little more and it over-reacts making me drift way into the other direction. I feel very unsafe on the freeway in this car, especially around bigger vehicles) I took it to 3 different KIA dealers to try and solve the problem, the first suggested that it needs a 'steering wheel update' since it has electronic steering. that did not solve or fix the problem. I took it to two other dealers trying to diagnose and fix this unsafe behavior of the car. They said that they are unable to duplicate my problem and so they cant fix anything on it. I told them that they need to drive it for at least 15 minutes or so, on the freeway and above 55/60 mph. they said that they still cant duplicate the problem. - - after calling KIA consumer affairs multiple times and fling a report, they tell me to take it to a KIA dealer. I have taken it to multiple dealers but still no solution.
- Electrical system › Wiring › Fuses and circuit breakers
TL* the contact owns a 2014 KIA optima hybrid. While driving approximately 75 mph, the hybrid-electric vehicle indicator illuminated and 'turn the engine off' displayed. The vehicle stalled and was able to restart; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was towed to the dealer (merced KIA, 1575…
TL* the contact owns a 2014 KIA optima hybrid. While driving approximately 75 mph, the hybrid-electric vehicle indicator illuminated and 'turn the engine off' displayed. The vehicle stalled and was able to restart; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was towed to the dealer (merced KIA, 1575 w. 16TH st., merced, ca) where it was diagnosed that the high voltage system safety fuse was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 78,000. *Tt
- Engine
Engine sounds like it IS going to blow up. Valves are very loud and it lurches under acceleration.
- Air bags
"Takata recall" airbag light on (constantly)
- Electrical system
My KIA alerted me to a hybrid charging issue before stalling at an intersection and refusing to start again. I had the vehicle towed to the nearest KIA dealer who did extensive diagnostic work. They determined that a 125 amp fuse had failed in the hybrid safety plug and the appropriate repair…
My KIA alerted me to a hybrid charging issue before stalling at an intersection and refusing to start again. I had the vehicle towed to the nearest KIA dealer who did extensive diagnostic work. They determined that a 125 amp fuse had failed in the hybrid safety plug and the appropriate repair response was to replace that fuse with a 150 amp fuse (part # 375f2-4r150). I authorized the repair and made several phone calls to KIA consumer affairs requesting additional information as it seemed unlikely that replacement of a fuse with a larger fuse was the needed repair. I finally reached someone at consumer affairs who had dealt with a similar issue with the exact same fuse. She informed me that there had been a technical service bulletin issued about this. She stated that the fuse was determined to be too small and that KIA had decided to use a larger fuse to prevent future problems in the system. I asked why I was required to pay for the repair and she told me that it was out of warranty and thus my charge. If the wrong fuse was placed in the vehicle when it was manufactured, it should be replaced by recall or warranty. She would not give me the tsb # but did state that it IS located in tsb-ps-515 and I was welcome to have a KIA dealer print it for me.
- Unknown or other
Vehicle was in motion on a road with posted speed of 50 mph. I had to brake suddenly, and the car stalled in the fast lane. I immediately put flashers on because of traffic coming behind me. it took about two minutes to restart the car because of the push button start and the power seats having…
Vehicle was in motion on a road with posted speed of 50 mph. I had to brake suddenly, and the car stalled in the fast lane. I immediately put flashers on because of traffic coming behind me. it took about two minutes to restart the car because of the push button start and the power seats having to position themselves. Very scary situation and very unexpected. I've also had problems when slowing down, and the car hesitates in the turn. I've almost been hit twice because of this.
- Engine
My 2014 KIA optima hybrid blew-up going down the road! The engine threw a rod through the motor which IS the exact motor in the recall.. It's just the hybrid so KIA says it's not recalled even though it's the exact recall of the same motor in the gas car!! This car falls in the exact recall! Please…
My 2014 KIA optima hybrid blew-up going down the road! The engine threw a rod through the motor which IS the exact motor in the recall.. It's just the hybrid so KIA says it's not recalled even though it's the exact recall of the same motor in the gas car!! This car falls in the exact recall! Please help me! The car only has 72,000miles on the car & should not have had this to occur!! 3 different mechanics has told me it's the exact recall KIA has put out for the exact motor!! KIA IS telling me (in paperwork) that I have to pay $10,700.00 for a new engine when the problem IS the exact recall in the car!! Again please help me with this! My name IS [xxx] & my contact email IS [xxx]. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6). *tr
- Electrical system · Engine
TL* the contact owns a 2014 KIA optima hybrid. While driving various speeds, the check engine, hev, tire pressure monitoring, and oil change warning indicators illuminated. In addition, the engine stalled. The contact pulled the vehicle over to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to the…
TL* the contact owns a 2014 KIA optima hybrid. While driving various speeds, the check engine, hev, tire pressure monitoring, and oil change warning indicators illuminated. In addition, the engine stalled. The contact pulled the vehicle over to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to the dealer (fred anderson KIA of raleigh located at 9209 glenwood ave, raleigh, nc 27617; (919) 785-4500). The dealer recalibrated the hybrid electric starter generator. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred four other times. The vehicle was taken to the same dealer all each time where they recalibrated the charging system. Later, when the vehicle was taken back to the dealer, the entire hybrid system needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired and the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to the same dealer. The vehicle was still not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted at 800-333-4542 and stated that there was a sealed crack in the hybrid battery where the coolant was held. The failure mileage was 31,885.
- Engine
I was driving on a four lane highway with my 4 yr old and 7 yr old. literally as I pulled off onto the off ramp, my dash lit up stating "hybrid system not charged. Pull off and turn off engine" I did not even have time to do this when the engine shut off in an extremely dangerous place. If this…
I was driving on a four lane highway with my 4 yr old and 7 yr old. literally as I pulled off onto the off ramp, my dash lit up stating "hybrid system not charged. Pull off and turn off engine" I did not even have time to do this when the engine shut off in an extremely dangerous place. If this had happened while driving on the highway, we could have been killed. after hours spent having to convince the dealership to tow the vehicle and provide a ride for me and my children, we finally were able to get a rental. KIA said the hybrid battery died but it IS on back order and not available in the united states until october (3 months from now). Hmmmm something sounds fishy to me. I will never drive a KIA again. the whole ordeal was traumatizing to my children and we were made to feel like we were the ones at fault.
- Engine
I was at a stop light waiting my turn, the light turned green, and I took my foot off the brake to put it on the gas. As I pressed the gas my car started to shake, no acceleration, and my dash lit up stating "hybrid system not charged pull over and turn off engine" I turned off my car, tried to…
I was at a stop light waiting my turn, the light turned green, and I took my foot off the brake to put it on the gas. As I pressed the gas my car started to shake, no acceleration, and my dash lit up stating "hybrid system not charged pull over and turn off engine" I turned off my car, tried to restart it and it stated that my hev system (hybrid electric vehicle system) has failed. I luckily was beside a gas station and I threw it into neutral and was able to push it just into the parking section. I had to have my car towed to the nearest dealer to have it checked out. During the drive my battery completely died so by the time I got there it had no power. Changed out the battery and safety switch which had seemed to fail. (Of course not under warranty). After spending $1,000 on repairs/labor the car still will not turn on and the engine seems to seize. After a little digging my vin isnt eligible for a recall, though the 2014 KIA optima IS for the same exact issue. Hopefully KIA will be able to figure out whats wrong because I really do like this car but a failing engine wont get me anywhere!
- Air bags · Electrical system · Power train
I was driving down a city street (35mph) when I was cut off by another car making a turn in front of me and we collided. I t-boned his car and my air bags didnt got off. My car stalled completely and nothing about the vehicle safety equipment reacted to the crash. The system (cluster and screen)…
I was driving down a city street (35mph) when I was cut off by another car making a turn in front of me and we collided. I t-boned his car and my air bags didnt got off. My car stalled completely and nothing about the vehicle safety equipment reacted to the crash. The system (cluster and screen) didnt show that there had been any impact and the car was ready to drive. I reported this to KIA of downtown la (the dealer) and kiausa corporate where they offered to check the car out and see if the car reacted the way it was suppose to. At the end of their inspection they claimed that my car did what it was suppose to and didnt deploy the airbags as the car determined that IS didnt need to. I asked why didnt the car show anywhere that there was impact and if the sensors even detected anything as there was no messaged anywhere. They claim it doesnt suppose to. A few weeks after it was repaired I started getting messages in the cluster "check air flap system". Took it back and fourth to the dealer where I finally opened a bbb claim. In my claim I also reported a delay reaction when accelerating and was told that hybrids work that way and the response time IS slower than regular gas cars. The problem IS when turning after a complete stop the car doesnt move for a few seconds and then takes off. Occasionally, the car wont turn off, and asks me to shift to p (park) when it IS in park. When that happens I am forced to take it to the dealership where they have to "reset" the car to force it to turn off (no actual solution but to unplug the battery and plug it back in IS what they do) according to KIA I cant prove that the airbags dont work as I am not an expert and same with the drive train. Unfortunately the only way of finding out IS if this car IS involved in another accident. Thank you for your time.
- Engine
On the highway at approximately 60mpg, engine started knocking as acceleration increased. Then acceleration would not increase and the car hovered at 60mph. After a few minutes and the knocking continuing, the car decreased to 40 mph. Then the warning came on and said "hybrid system not charged…
On the highway at approximately 60mpg, engine started knocking as acceleration increased. Then acceleration would not increase and the car hovered at 60mph. After a few minutes and the knocking continuing, the car decreased to 40 mph. Then the warning came on and said "hybrid system not charged pull over and turn off engine". Then I pulled off turned off the car and attempted to restart it. It continued to present with the same warning. No energy flow through the engine. I had my car towed to my home. I noticed recalls for my exact vehicle with different vin #'s and describing the exact same issues. A friend of mine sent me a copy of a recall notice after I described what occurred and it IS all the same things they describe. KIA says my vin# IS not on the recall list. KIA refuses to fix the issue even though it IS under 60,000 mile warranty, claiming the problem IS due to maintenance. I purchased the car in january 2017 and it IS now only april 2017. A whole three months. A car I just purchased should not have these issues.
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Pedestrian alert sounds
NHTSA received a petition on or about July 18, 2022, requesting that Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 141 be applied to all electric and hybrid vehicles operating in the United States. The petition can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI Number 11486072. FMVSS 141 establishes performance requirements for…
NHTSA received a petition on or about July 18, 2022, requesting that Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 141 be applied to all electric and hybrid vehicles operating in the United States. The petition can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI Number 11486072. FMVSS 141 establishes performance requirements for pedestrian alert sounds for motor vehicles. The standard applies to hybrid and electric vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,536 KG or less or are defined as low-speed vehicles. The standard became fully applicable to all such vehicles manufactured on or after March 1, 2021.On January 27, 2023, NHTSA opened Defect Petition (DP) 22-005 to evaluate the subject matter described in the petition. On June 24, 2023 and as supplemented on June 25, 2023, the petitioner notified NHTSA he was withdrawing his petition. The petitioner indicated that, based on his review of data, there is no justification for asserting potential benefits that could be derived from actions sought by my petition. Based on the petitioner's withdrawal, DP22-005 is closed. Closure of this DP does not represent a determination by NHTSA regarding the subject matter of the petition.
- Loss of Motive Power
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
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.
- Non-crash Vehicle Fires
During this Preliminary Evaluation (PE), the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) assessed the scope, frequency and potential safety-related consequences of non-crash vehicle fires caused by both engine failures and failures of other vehicle systems/components in model year (MY) 2011-2014 Kia Optima, MY 2011-2014 Kia…
During this Preliminary Evaluation (PE), the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) assessed the scope, frequency and potential safety-related consequences of non-crash vehicle fires caused by both engine failures and failures of other vehicle systems/components in model year (MY) 2011-2014 Kia Optima, MY 2011-2014 Kia Sorento and MY 2010-2015 Kia Soul vehicles equipped with Theta II, Gamma, Nu and Lambda II engines (approximately 1.7 million vehicles). ODI also reviewed field and other data on other Kia vehicles (approximately 3.6 million additional vehicles) equipped with the same engines used in the above-mentioned vehicles.As a result of this PE, Kia has issued NHTSA Recalls 20V-750 and 21V-844 to address potential engine failures and fires in certain Kia vehicles equipped with various engine types.Additional information on these and other related recall actions is available in the downloadable version of this resume available at NHTSA.gov.In addition, ODI has upgraded this PE to an Engineering Analysis (EA) 21-003 which will focus on potential recall scope concerns and recall remedy concerns related to the engine failure-related recalls mentioned above and conducted previously.See the EA21-003 Opening Resume available at NHTSA.gov for more information.Also available in the downloadable version of this resume is a list of the reference numbers for the 444 ODI reports, or Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs), cited above which ODI received through mid-November 2021.Note that the Manufacturer reports cited above are customer complaints received through March 2019.
- Non-crash Vehicle Fires
In a letter dated June 11, 2018, the Center for Auto Safety (CAS) petitioned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to initiate a safety defect investigation into non-collision related fires on model year (MY) 2011-2014 Kia Optima and Sorento, and Hyundai Sonata and Santa Fe vehicles. In a letter…
In a letter dated June 11, 2018, the Center for Auto Safety (CAS) petitioned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to initiate a safety defect investigation into non-collision related fires on model year (MY) 2011-2014 Kia Optima and Sorento, and Hyundai Sonata and Santa Fe vehicles. In a letter dated July 24, 2018, CAS requested that MY 2010-2015 Kia Soul vehicles be added to the petition. CAS stated that there is a higher number of complaints to NHTSA regarding non-crash fires on these vehicles compared to other similar vehicles. The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) had already opened Recall Queries (RQ17-003 and RQ17-004) on all Kia and Hyundai vehicles equipped with Theta II engines for engine failures that may cause stalling and fires.The queries cover most of the petition subject Optima, Sorento, Sonata, and Santa Fe vehicles but not any of the subject Soul vehicles.On August 21, 2018, ODI opened a Defect Petition (DP18-003) to evaluate whether to grant or deny the CAS petition. ODI sent Information Request letters to Kia and Hyundai (September and October 2018) requesting information on all engine and non-engine related fires in the petition vehicles.ODI performed extensive analysis on the information obtained from Kia and Hyundai. During the DP18-003 analysis, Kia and Hyundai each initiated three additional safety recalls related to engine compartment fires on certain petitioned and non-petitioned vehicles (nearly 740,000 total vehicles: Recalls 18V-907, 18V-934, 19V-101, 19V-063, 19V-120, and 19V-204). Based on ODI?s review of the applicable materials, including responses to Information Requests sent to multiple manufacturers, Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQ), and Early Warning Data, NHTSA decided to grant the petition.The CAS petition was granted on March 29, 2019. Preliminary Evaluations (PE19-003 on Hyundai and PE19-004 on Kia) have been opened to assess the scope, frequency, and potential safety-related consequences of alleged defects relating to non-collision vehicle fires in the 2011-2014 Kia Optima and Sorento, 2011-2014 Hyundai Sonata and Santa Fe, and 2010-2015 Kia Soul.Attached is a list of the reference numbers for the 404 VOQs cited above.
- Scope and Timeliness
NHTSA opened Recall Query (RQ) 17-003 to investigate the timeliness and scope of Kia?s Theta II GDI engine recall (Recall No. 17V-224), and Kia?s compliance with reporting requirements. On November 23, 2020, the Agency entered into a Consent Order with Kia to administratively resolve NHTSA?s assertions of violations…
NHTSA opened Recall Query (RQ) 17-003 to investigate the timeliness and scope of Kia?s Theta II GDI engine recall (Recall No. 17V-224), and Kia?s compliance with reporting requirements. On November 23, 2020, the Agency entered into a Consent Order with Kia to administratively resolve NHTSA?s assertions of violations of law in connection with RQ17-003. NHTSA?s assertions included that Kia may be liable for civil penalties on multiple grounds, including that Recall No. 17V-224 was untimely and Kia?s recall report contained certain inaccuracies.Under the Consent Order, Kia agreed to a total civil penalty of $70,000,000. The total civil penalty included a payment of $27,000,000 as a Non-Deferred Amount.Kia also agreed to a sum of $27,000,000 as an Abeyance Amount to be deferred and held in abeyance pending its satisfactory completion, as reasonably determined by NHTSA, of the requirements of the Consent Order.Kia also agreed to a $16,000,000 Performance Obligation Amount to be expended by Kia to fulfill specified Safety Data Analytics Infrastructure obligations. The Consent Order also includes other terms designed to enhance Kia?s safety practices, and requires Kia to retain a Third-Party Auditor who directly reports to NHTSA.Other than RQ17-003, the Consent Order is not intended to affect any other current or future investigation of NHTSA which may involve vehicles equipped with Theta II GDI engines. In particular, Engineering Analysis (EA) 21-003 (which is upgraded from Preliminary Evaluation (PE) 19-004) continues NHTSA?s evaluation of certain performance and design issues relating to the Theta II and other engines.Nothing in the Consent Order discharges Kia from any obligation to comply with the Safety Act or regulations thereunder, including the obligation to carry out recalls in accordance with the law, and to initiate a recall upon any future determination by Kia, or upon any finally adjudicated order from NHTSA, that vehicles equipped with Theta II GDI engines contain a defect related to motor vehicle safety or do not comply with an applicable FMVSS.This RQ is closed. Closure of this RQ has no bearing on the terms of the Consent Order, including Kia's ongoing performance obligations, and does not represent a determination by the agency as to Kia's performance under the Consent Order to date.
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.
- 11010705PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: OWNER RENOTIFICATION (PI2104) - This document is the owner renotification advising that Kia is conducting an important Product Improvement Campaign to perform a software update on 2014-2016 MY Optima Hybrid vehicles equipped with 2.4-liter MPI engines to protect the engine from excessive connecting rod bearing damage. The update will be done free of charge and will only involve the addition of newly developed computer software for the Engine Control Unit (ECU).
- 11010513TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: SUBSEQUENT REPAIR ACTION: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI2104Y/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 in (PI2104) titled Knock Sensor Detection System - ECU Logic Improvement for 2014-2016MY Optima (TF HEV) vehicles equipped with Theta 2.4L MPI engine, produced from December 11, 2013 through July 22, 2015. Specifically, this bulletin provides instructions on which procedures to follow if, after installation of the KSDS, any one of the subject vehicles below return to the dealer with Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P1326 (Knock Signal Range/Performance).
- 11006546TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: HIGH-VOLTAGE BATTERY SAFETY PLUG FUSE INSPECTION AND REPLACEMENT (SC269) - 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 inspect and, if necessary, replace the High Voltage Battery (HVB) Safety Plug Fuse Assembly or Main Fuse on 2013-2016MY Optima Hybrid (TF HEV) vehicles produced from September 27, 2012 through July 22, 2015. The high-voltage fuse in the subject vehicles may have been replaced with an improper non-OEM aftermarket fuse by third-party repair facilities. A fuse of incorrect capacity may experience a shortened service life, which may result in illumination of the Hybrid System Warning and/or Check Engine Light, followed by a no-start condition. If an improper non-OEM aftermarket fuse is installed, it may fail and result in a fire.
- 11006367VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: OWNER RENOTIFICATION (SC269) - This document is the owner renotification advising that Kia is conducting a Voluntary Service Campaign to inspect and, if necessary, replace the high-voltage fuse in 2013-2016 MY Optima Hybrid vehicles.
- 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.
- 10251445PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: OWNER RENOTIFICATION (PI2104) - This document is the owner renotification advising that Kia is conducting a Product Improvement Campaign to perform a software update on 2014-2016 MY Kia Optima Hybrid vehicles equipped with 2.4-liter engines to protect the engine from excessive connecting rod bearing damage. The update will be done free of charge and will only involve the addition of newly developed computer software for the Engine Control Unit ("ECU").
- 10239736VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: HIGH-VOLTAGE BATTERY SAFETY PLUG FUSE INSPECTION AND REPLACEMENT (SC269) - This bulletin provides information to inspect and, if necessary, replace the High Voltage Battery (HVB) Safety Plug Fuse Assembly or Main Fuse on 2013-2016MY Optima Hybrid (TF HEV) vehicles produced from September 27, 2012 through July 22, 2015. The high-voltage fuse in the subject vehicles may have been replaced with an improper aftermarket fuse by third-party repair facilities. A fuse of incorrect capacity may experience a shortened service life, which may result in illumination of the Hybrid System Warning and/or Check Engine Light, followed by a no-start condition. Furthermore, an improper aftermarket fuse may fail and result in a fire.
- 10239735VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: QUESTION AND ANSWER - This document is the Question and Answer Guide containing the most frequently asked questions regarding the Voluntary Service Campaign (SC269).
- 10239734VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia is conducting a Voluntary Service Campaign to ensure that the proper high-voltage fuse is installed on 2013-2016 MY Optima Hybrid vehicles manufactured from September 27, 2012 through July 22, 2015.
- 10239733VOLUNTARY 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 Service Campaign to ensure that the proper high-voltage fuse is installed on 2013-2016 MY Optima Hybrid vehicles manufactured from September 27, 2012 through July 22, 2015.
- 10239732VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: DEALER PRINCIPAL MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer principals that Kia is conducting a Voluntary Service Campaign to ensure that the proper high-voltage fuse is installed on 2013-2016 MY Optima Hybrid vehicles manufactured from September 27, 2012 through July 22, 2015.
- 10239721SUBSEQUENT REPAIR ACTION: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI2104Y/Z) - This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previously published in (PI2104) titled "Knock Sensor Detection System - ECU Logic Improvement" for 2014-2016MY Optima (TF HEV) vehicles equipped with Theta 2.4L MPI engine, produced from December 11, 2013 through July 22, 2015. Specifically, this bulletin provides instructions on which procedures to follow if, after installation of the KSDS, any one of the subject vehicles below return to the dealer with Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P1326 (Knock Signal Range/Performance).
- 10238225TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PARTIAL REPAIR - ELECTRICAL A/C COMPRESSOR - 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 regarding partial repair of the Air Conditioning (A/C) compressor assembly on some 2011MY~ Optima Hybrid (TF HEV, JF HEV/PHEV), 2015MY~ Soul EV (PS EV), 2017MY~ Niro (DE HEV/PHEV/EV), 2022MY~ EV6 (CV), 2021MY~ Sorento (MQ4 HEV/PHEV), 2023MY~ Sportage (NQ5 HEV/PHEV), and 2023MY~ Niro (SG2 EV/HEV/PHEV) vehicles.
- 10230486TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: HIGH-VOLTAGE BATTERY SAFETY PLUG FUSE INSPECTION AND REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides information associated with the "Hybrid System Warranty Extension Program" (WTY029) to inspect and, if necessary, replace the High Voltage Battery (HVB) Safety Plug Fuse Assembly or Main Fuse on 2013-2016MY Optima Hybrid (TF HEV) vehicles produced from September 27, 2012 through July 22, 2015.
- 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.
- 10222379WARRANTY EXTENSION: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia is extending the Hybrid System Warranty coverage for the high-voltage battery safety plug fuse in 2013-2016 MY Optima Hybrid vehicles from 10 years / 100,000 miles to 15 years / 150,000 miles, whichever comes first, starting from the date the vehicle was first put into service. This warranty extension addresses, at no cost to you, certain concerns related to the potential failure of the high-voltage battery safety plug fuse.
- 10222377WARRANTY 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.
- 10222376WARRANTY EXTENSION: QUESTION AND ANSWER - This document is the Question and Answer Guide containing the most frequently asked questions regarding the warranty extension (WTY029).
- 10222374WARRANTY EXTENSION: DEALER PARTS AND SERVICE MANAGER MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer Parts and Service Managers that Kia America, Inc., is extending the Hybrid System Warranty coverage for the high-voltage battery safety plug fuse in 2013-2016 MY Optima Hybrid vehicles from 10 years / 100,000 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 high-voltage battery safety plug fuse.
- 10222373WARRANTY EXTENSION: DEALER PRINCIPAL MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer principals that Kia America, Inc., is extending the Hybrid System Warranty coverage for the high-voltage battery safety plug fuse in 2013-2016 MY Optima Hybrid vehicles from 10 years / 100,000 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 high-voltage battery safety plug fuse.
- 10210264TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: HIGH-VOLTAGE BATTERY ORDERING AND RETURN PROCEDURE - 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 outlines the ordering and return procedure for high-voltage Lithium-ion batteries equipped on EV/hybrid vehicles (hereafter referred to as "high-voltage batteries" or HVBs).
- 10202226TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PARTIAL REPAIR OF C-MDPS MOTOR, ECU, WORM GEAR AND/OR STEERING COLUMN HOUSING - 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 regarding the partial repair of the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) Motor, Electronic Control Unit (ECU), Steering Column Housing, or Worm Gear Assembly. When the steering wheel is rotated a scraping noise can be heard originating from the lower bearing on the Worm Gear Assembly on some 2010MY~ Kia models listed on page 8, equipped with a Column Motor Driven Power Steering (C-MDPS) unit. On some vehicles when the steering wheel is rotated a scraping noise can be heard originating from the lower bearing on the Worm Gear Assembly and does not affect the steering effort.
- 10201529TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE - 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 relating to some Kia models that may exhibit fogging, condensation, and/or moisture inside a headlamp assembly. Generally, a fogging condition is considered normal and can be eliminated by turning on the headlamps with the engine running for up to 30 minutes or during normal driving conditions. Headlamp assembly replacement WILL NOT be necessary in most cases.
- 10200535TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: HIGH-VOLTAGE BATTERY ORDERING AND RETURN PROCEDURE - 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 outlines the ordering and return procedure for high-voltage Lithium-ion batteries equipped on EV/hybrid vehicles (hereafter referred to as "high-voltage batteries" or HVBs).
- 10200431SC208_OWNR: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia is conducting a Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign to install an auxiliary evaporative canister in their vehicle to ensure the evaporative canister is not releasing excessive pollutants into the air on some 2011-2016 MY Kia Optima Hybrid vehicles.
- 10200420VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: AUXILIARY CANISTER KIT INSTALLATION (SC208) - This bulletin provides the procedure for the installation of an add-on auxiliary canister on some 2011-2016MY Optima (TF HEV) vehicles equipped with 2.4L Theta II engine, produced from February 15, 2011 through July 22, 2015. This is to improve evaporative system performance and ensure compliance with Federal and California emission regulation standards.
- 10200416Sc208_poc: proof of correction card
- 10200415Sc208_stkr: voluntary emissions service campaign completion sticker
- 10200410SC208_QA: QUESTION AND ANSWER - This document is the Question and Answer Guide containing the most frequently asked questions regarding the Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign (SC208).
- 10200397SC208_DPSM: DEALER PARTS AND SERVICE MANAGER MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer Parts and Service Managers that Kia America, Inc. is conducting a Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign to install an Auxiliary Canister Kit to improve evaporative system performance on certain 2011-2016 MY Kia Optima Hybrid vehicles manufactured from February 15, 2011 through July 22, 2015.
- 10200396SC208_DP: DEALER PRINCIPAL MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer principals that Kia America, Inc. is conducting a Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign to install an Auxiliary Canister Kit to improve evaporative system performance on certain 2011-2016 MY Kia Optima Hybrid vehicles manufactured from February 15, 2011 through July 22, 2015.
- 10199208PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: THETA 2.4L MPI - KNOCK SENSOR DETECTION SYSTEM (KSDS) ECU LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (PI2104) - This bulletin provides information related to a software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to install the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS), in order to protect the engine from excessive connecting rod bearing damage. This update is for certain 2014-2016MY Optima Hybrid (TF HEV) vehicles equipped with Theta 2.4L MPI engines, produced from December 11, 2013 through July 22, 2015.
- 10199207PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia is conducting a Product Improvement Campaign to perform a software update on 2014-2016 MY Optima Hybrid vehicles equipped with 2.4-liter MPI engines to protect the engine from excessive connecting rod bearing damage. The update will be done free of charge and will only involve the addition of newly developed computer software for the Engine Control Unit ("ECU").
- 10199206PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: QUESTION AND ANSWER - This document is the Question and Answer Guide containing the most frequently asked questions regarding the Product Improvement Campaign (PI2104).
- 10199205PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: DEALER PARTS AND SERVICE MANAGER MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer principals that Kia is conducting a Product Improvement Campaign to perform a software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to protect the engine from excessive connecting rod bearing damage on 2014-2016 MY Kia Optima Hybrid vehicles equipped with 2.4-liter MPI engines, manufactured from December 11, 2013 through July 22, 2015.
- 10199164PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: DEALER PRINCIPAL MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer principals that Kia is conducting a Product Improvement Campaign to perform a software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to protect the engine from excessive connecting rod bearing damage on 2014-2016 MY Kia Optima Hybrid vehicles equipped with 2.4-liter MPI engines, manufactured from December 11, 2013 through July 22, 2015.
- 10197335Optima Hybrid (TF HEV) With DTC B1695 - Lost Communication With E-Comp
- 10195049PIT STOP: A/C DYE FOR E-COMPRESSOR EQUIPPED VEHICLES - This bulletin provides information on the proper non-conductive A/C system leak detection dye to be used in all EV, HEV, and PHEV models equipped with an electric A/C compressor.
- 10189545TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PARTIAL REPAIR OF C-MDPS MOTOR, ECU, WORM GEAR AND/OR STEERING COLUMN HOUSING - 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 regarding the partial repair of the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) Motor, Electronic Control Unit (ECU), Steering Column Housing, or Worm Gear Assembly. When the steering wheel is rotated a scraping noise can be heard originating from the lower bearing on the Worm Gear Assembly on some 2010MY~ Kia models listed on page 8, equipped with a Column Motor Driven Power Steering (C-MDPS) unit.
- 10188137PITSTOP/TECHNICAL OPERATIONS - SMOKE MACHINE NOT TO BE USED FOR EMISSIONS TESTING WITH HEV/PHEV MODELS - This Pitstop provides information to properly test the evaporative emissions system in all Kia 2011MY~ Hybrid (HEV) and Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) model vehicles. A smoke machine should NEVER be used when testing the evaporative system in a HEV/PHEV model vehicle.
Every KIA Optima Hybrid model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.