Kia Optima Hybrid

Kia Optima Hybrid recalls

2 recall campaigns, model years 2017 to 2018. Each lists the fault, the risk, and the fix you are owed.

2Campaigns
2017–2018Years affected
0Do-not-drive
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Your VIN is on the dashboard by the windscreen. It is on your insurance card too. Put it into nhtsa.gov/recalls. You get the open recalls for your exact car. The repair is free. Most recalls never expire.

What keeps failing

SystemCampaigns
Engine2
Latches/locks/linkages2

Every campaign

The text below is quoted from NHTSA word for word.

Engine

21V844000  ·  reported 29/10/2021

The fault
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.
What it can cause
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.

Latches/locks/linkages:trunk Lid:latch

23V594000  ·  reported 24/08/2023

The fault
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 Release."
What it can cause
A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
The fix
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.

Source: NHTSA recalls API, retrieved 4 August 2026.

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