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2011-2014 Kia Optima, 2012-2014 Sorento & 2011-2013 Sportage Recall: Safety Alert for Owners | MotorVero

Kia Engine Recall Alert: Optima, Sorento & Sportage Models Affected | MotorVero

Kia Engine Recall Alert: Critical Safety Information for Owners

Kia engine recall

Urgent Safety Recall Notice

Kia Motors America has issued a significant safety recall affecting approximately 618,000 vehicles due to potentially dangerous engine defects. This recall addresses critical manufacturing issues that could lead to catastrophic engine failure while driving, significantly increasing crash risks.

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Affected Vehicle Models and Years

  • Kia Optima: 2011-2014 model year sedans
  • Kia Sorento: 2012-2014 model year SUVs
  • Kia Sportage: 2011-2013 model year SUVs

Owners of these specific models should take immediate action, as the engine defect poses serious safety concerns that require prompt attention from authorized Kia service centers.


The Engine Defect: Understanding the Safety Risk

Kia Optima recall

The recall stems from machining errors that occurred during the engine manufacturing process. These production flaws can cause:

  • Premature wear of engine bearings
  • Potential engine seizure without warning
  • Complete loss of vehicle power while driving
  • Increased risk of accidents and collisions

According to safety engineers, the bearing wear develops gradually but can lead to sudden engine failure, particularly during highway driving or other situations where loss of power could prove dangerous.

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Recall Repair Solution

Kia has authorized the following repair protocol at all certified dealerships:

  • Comprehensive engine assembly inspection
  • Complete engine replacement if bearing wear is detected
  • Use of updated engine components with corrected specifications

Important Note: All recall-related repairs will be performed at no cost to vehicle owners, regardless of warranty status. This includes both parts and labor associated with the engine inspection and potential replacement.


What Affected Owners Should Do

Immediate Action Steps

  1. Check for recall notices: Kia will mail official recall notifications to registered owners
  2. Verify your VIN: Use the NHTSA recall lookup tool to confirm if your specific vehicle is affected
  3. Contact Kia directly: Call the Kia Consumer Assistance Center at 800-333-4542
  4. Schedule service: Visit MotorVero's Service & Repair portal to find your nearest authorized Kia dealership

Even if your vehicle isn't currently showing symptoms, it's crucial to have it inspected. Early detection of bearing wear can prevent dangerous engine failure scenarios.

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Recognizing Potential Engine Problems

While some vehicles may show no outward signs of the defect, owners should be alert for these warning signs:

  • Unusual knocking or tapping sounds from the engine
  • Illuminated check engine light (particularly with bearing-related codes)
  • Loss of engine power or stalling
  • Increased oil consumption
  • Metallic particles in engine oil (visible during changes)

If you experience any of these symptoms, reduce vehicle use immediately and contact your nearest Kia dealership for priority inspection.


Recall Timeline and Implementation

Kia has established the following timeline for recall implementation:

  • Official owner notification period begins
  • Dealer repair instructions and parts distribution complete
  • Recall completion deadline (all affected vehicles addressed)

Due to the large number of vehicles involved, repairs will be prioritized based on vehicle age, mileage, and regional factors. Owners are encouraged to schedule inspections as soon as possible.

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Extended Warranty Considerations

In addition to the recall repairs, Kia has implemented special policy extensions for affected vehicles:

  • Engine long block warranty extension to lifetime coverage (original owner)
  • 15-year/150,000-mile coverage for subsequent owners
  • Reimbursement available for previous engine repairs related to this defect

Owners who previously paid for engine repairs that would now be covered under this recall may be eligible for reimbursement through Kia's consumer assistance program.


Safety Recommendations Until Repairs Are Completed

If you must continue driving your vehicle before the recall repair:

  • Avoid extended highway driving when possible
  • Monitor engine oil levels weekly
  • Listen for abnormal engine noises
  • Have your vehicle towed (rather than driven) if symptoms appear
  • Consider alternative transportation for long trips

These precautions can help reduce risk while awaiting your scheduled repair appointment.

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Kia Vehicles Affected by Engine Recall
Safety recall for Kia Optima, Sorento, and Sportage models due to engine machining errors that may cause bearing wear and engine seizure.
Kia Motors
Kia Engine Safety Recall Recall of 618,000 Kia vehicles for potential engine failure risk
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Last Updated On Aug, 30-2025

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