The Recall Desk
SevereNHTSA·21V844000·Announced 2021-10-29

Kia Recalls 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid Vehicles for Engine Bearing Wear

Kia is recalling 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid vehicles because premature engine bearing wear can cause engine damage, increasing the risk of fire or a crash.

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 structural vehicle defect (engine bearing wear) that can result in engine damage, increasing the risk of fire or a crash, which aligns with the 'Severe' criteria for structural vehicle defects or significant injury/property-damage risks.

Plain-English summary

Kia Motors America is recalling certain 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The recall addresses a defect where the connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which can result in engine damage.

A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or cause an engine stall, which increases the risk of a crash. The recall covers 10,731 vehicles.

Dealers will inspect the engine and replace it if bearing damage is found. Dealers will also install a software update containing a Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 29, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.

The recalled product

Product
KIA OPTIMA HYBRID, OPTIMA PHEV
Brand
KIA
Manufacturer
Kia Motors America
Category
Vehicle — Hybrid / Plug-In Hybrid
Hazard
Affected units
10,731

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 (2)

  • OPTIMA HYBRID
  • OPTIMA PHEV

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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