The Recall Desk
SevereNHTSA·20V750000·Announced 2020-12-02

Kia Recalls 294,756 Vehicles for Engine Compartment Fire Risk

Kia is recalling 294,756 vehicles from 2011-2015 due to a risk of engine compartment fire while driving. Dealers will inspect for leaks and update software.

What this means for you

Illness, injury, or structural failure has been reported. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk of engine compartment fire while driving, which is a significant injury hazard and falls under the 'Severe' criteria for significant injury reports or structural/functional defects posing high risk.

Plain-English summary

Kia Motors America is recalling 294,756 vehicles, including 2012-2013 Sorento, 2012-2015 Forte and Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, 2014-2015 Soul, and 2012 Sportage models. The recall addresses a defect where an engine compartment fire can occur while driving. This condition increases the risk of injury to occupants.

Dealers will inspect the engine compartment for fuel and/or engine oil leaks, perform an engine test, and make any necessary repairs, including engine replacement, free of charge. Additionally, dealers will update the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software at no cost to the owner. The recall began on January 27, 2021.

Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542 for more information. Kia's number for this recall is SC200. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or visit www.safercar.gov.

The recalled product

Product
KIA FORTE KOUP, SOUL, FORTE, SORENTO
Brand
KIA
Manufacturer
Kia Motors America
Affected units
294,756

Is your product affected?

Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.

Model numbers (6)

  • FORTE KOUP
  • SOUL
  • FORTE
  • SORENTO
  • SPORTAGE
  • OPTIMA HYBRID

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.