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Kia Optima Phev Recall 21V844: Engine Bearings May Wear Early, Risking Fire or Stall

NHTSA campaign 21V844, reported October 29, 2021, 10,731 vehicles potentially affected.

What this recall means for you

Connecting rod bearings inside the engine can wear out prematurely, which may cause engine damage. A damaged engine can lead to an engine stall, raising the risk of a crash, or increase the risk of a fire.

Authorized Kia dealers will inspect the engine free of charge. If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced at no cost. Dealers will also install a software update that adds a Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Owners who received a notification letter mailed November 29, 2021 should contact the dealer to schedule the repair. You can also call Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542, and you should check your VIN for open recalls.

Check whether this recall is open on your vehicle

The repair is normally free at an authorized dealer.

Official recall notice

Safety recall 21V844Kia Motors America
Component
ENGINE
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.
Risk
A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Affected vehicles

Kia Optima Hybrid20172018
Kia Optima Phev20172018