EngineRecall 21V-844 · Kia vehicles
Kia Motors America recall 21V-844 covers 10,731 Kia vehicles for a engine problem, reported to NHTSA on October 29, 2021. The manufacturer's latest report (2023 Q3) shows 70% of affected vehicles repaired.
Source: NHTSA recall 21V844000 and manufacturer quarterly reports. Started by an NHTSA defect investigation.
The problem
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which can result in engine damage.
The risk
A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced. 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. Kia's number for this recall is SC218.
Recall repairs are free. Confirm whether this recall is open on your vehicle by entering its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
How fast cars are being fixed
70%repaired
Share of affected vehicles repaired in each quarterly report the manufacturer filed with NHTSA. 478 vehicles were listed as unreachable.
Vehicles in this recall
The investigation behind this recall
- Non-crash Vehicle FiresNHTSA