NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Engine complaints
384 reportsClear category filter64,650 miles · Apr 10, 2020
Engine
I GO THE CAR 2018,I HAD THE CAR FOR 13MONTHS,2019 I GOT MY OIL CHANGE IN YORK KAI, PA. THE CAR HAD A RECALL ON IT: KIA INSTALLED A 21513 23001 GASKET- OIL PLUG, 26300 35504 FILTER ASSY - ENGINE O. NOW 12MOS. LATER I NEED A NEW ENGINE,I HAD 2 DIAG>DONE AND BOTH PLACE SAID I NEED A NEW ENGINE, THE 4RING FAULTY.I FEEL LIKE KNOW ONE…
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I GO THE CAR 2018,I HAD THE CAR FOR 13MONTHS,2019 I GOT MY OIL CHANGE IN YORK KAI, PA. THE CAR HAD A RECALL ON IT: KIA INSTALLED A 21513 23001 GASKET- OIL PLUG, 26300 35504 FILTER ASSY - ENGINE O. NOW 12MOS. LATER I NEED A NEW ENGINE,I HAD 2 DIAG>DONE AND BOTH PLACE SAID I NEED A NEW ENGINE, THE 4RING FAULTY.I FEEL LIKE KNOW ONE IS TRYING TO HELP ME TO REPLACE THIS ENGINE.I NEED HELP,NOT FAIR TO ME 2017 CAR NEW A NEW ENGINE,I ONLY HAD IT FOR 13MOS.THE CAR SHAKES WHEN I STOP,IT SLOWS DOWN WHEN DRIVING.THANK YOU FOR TAKING THE TIME TO READ MY LETTER. I HOPE I CAN GET SOME HELP.
NHTSA ODI #11320799
Mileage unknown · Apr 5, 2020
Engine
I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO GET THE KIA DEALERSHIP IN GAINESVILLE, GA TO POSTPONE THE OIL CONSUMPTION TESTING DUE TO THE CORONAVIRUS CONCERNS MY HUSBAND AND I HAVE. THE MANAGER OF THE DEALERSHIP SAID THAT THE OIL CONSUMPTION TESTING HAS A PROTOCOL, THE TESTING CANNOT BE CANCELLED. I KEEP TELLING EVERYONE, THE DEALERSHIP, KIA MOTORS,…
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I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO GET THE KIA DEALERSHIP IN GAINESVILLE, GA TO POSTPONE THE OIL CONSUMPTION TESTING DUE TO THE CORONAVIRUS CONCERNS MY HUSBAND AND I HAVE. THE MANAGER OF THE DEALERSHIP SAID THAT THE OIL CONSUMPTION TESTING HAS A PROTOCOL, THE TESTING CANNOT BE CANCELLED. I KEEP TELLING EVERYONE, THE DEALERSHIP, KIA MOTORS, THAT I DID NOT SAY TO CANCEL THE TESTING, JUST TO POSTPONE IT. THE SAME AS THE UNITED STATES SUPREME COURT DID, THEY PUT THEIR WORK ON HOLD DUE TO CONCERNS OF THE CORONAVIRUS CONCERNS. I CANNOT CHECK MY OIL CONSUMPTION BECAUSE THE OIL DIPSTICK IS SEALED, IF I REMOVE IT THE MANAGER OF THE DEALERSHIP SAID I WOULD VOID MY WARRANTY AND IT WOULD BE MY RESPONSIBILITY, MY LIABILITY IF SOMETHING GOES WRONG. THIS DEALERSHIP PUT THE SEAL ON THE DIPSTICK, THIS DEALERSHIP NEEDS TO REMOVE IT. I WILL CONTINUE THE TESTING AFTER THE CORONAVIRUS CONCERNS ARE OVER. THE DEALERSHIP NOR KIA MOTORS WILL AUTHORIZE ME IN WRITING THAT IT IS OKAY FOR ME TO HAVE THE SEAL ON THE OIL DIPSTICK REMOVED AND THAT I WILL NOT VOID MY WARRANTY. NHSTA PLEASE HELP ME !!
NHTSA ODI #11320265
Mileage unknown · Mar 10, 2020
Engine
WE RETURNED TO KIA DEALERSHIP 3/9/2020. WE WERE LOW ON OIL AGAIN. THIS WAS AFTER THEY TOLD US THIS ON OUR PREVIOUS VISIT 2/7/2020 IT WAS OUR LAST OIL CONSUMPTION TESTING. KIA DID A FULL OIL AND FILTER CHANGE AT 60,689 MILES. THEY STARTED ANOTHER 1000 MILE 'OIL CONSUMPTION TEST' AND SEALED THE DIPSTICK, SECURED IT WITH A PLAS…
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WE RETURNED TO KIA DEALERSHIP 3/9/2020. WE WERE LOW ON OIL AGAIN. THIS WAS AFTER THEY TOLD US THIS ON OUR PREVIOUS VISIT 2/7/2020 IT WAS OUR LAST OIL CONSUMPTION TESTING. KIA DID A FULL OIL AND FILTER CHANGE AT 60,689 MILES. THEY STARTED ANOTHER 1000 MILE 'OIL CONSUMPTION TEST' AND SEALED THE DIPSTICK, SECURED IT WITH A PLASTIC STRAP ATTACHED TO THE MANIFOLD, WHICH THE MANIFOLD GETS EXTREMELY HOT AND COULD CAUSE THE STRAP TO MELT AND OR CAUSE A FIRE.
NHTSA ODI #11317197
36,000 miles · Mar 4, 2020
Engine
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 KIA SORENTO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL TICKING SOUND COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO GREENWAY KIA WEST PALM BEACH LOCATED AT (735 S. MILITARY TRL, WEST PALM BEACH, FL 33415), WHERE THE ENGINE WAS REPLACED. ABOUT SIX MONTHS LATER, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND LOST POWE…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 KIA SORENTO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL TICKING SOUND COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO GREENWAY KIA WEST PALM BEACH LOCATED AT (735 S. MILITARY TRL, WEST PALM BEACH, FL 33415), WHERE THE ENGINE WAS REPLACED. ABOUT SIX MONTHS LATER, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND LOST POWER AND WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER REPLACED THE WIRING HARNESS. THE FAILURE RECURRED AND THE SAME DEALER REPLACED THE KNOCK SENSOR. THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE SAME DEALER WHO KEPT THE VEHICLE FOR A COUPLES OF WEEKS AND WAS UNABLE TO REPAIR THE FAILURE. THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU TOLD THE CONTACT THAT AS A SECOND OWNER, THE VEHICLE DID NOT QUALIFY FOR A LEMON LAW PROTECTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND FILED A COMPLAINT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 36,000.
NHTSA ODI #11316079
77,000 miles · Feb 12, 2020
Engine
THE CAR STALLED WHILE I WAS DRIVING. NO WARNING LIGHTS (NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, TEMP, ETC.) OR WARNING. I PULLED OVER, TURNED IT OFF THEN BACK ON AND STARTED TO HEAR A LOW KNOCKING IN MOTOR. IT RAN FOR A FEW MILES, THEN STALLED AT A LIGHT. I TURNED OFF THEN BACK ON THEN MADE IT HOME. AT HOME MY HUSBAND CHECKED THE OIL AND IT L…
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THE CAR STALLED WHILE I WAS DRIVING. NO WARNING LIGHTS (NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, TEMP, ETC.) OR WARNING. I PULLED OVER, TURNED IT OFF THEN BACK ON AND STARTED TO HEAR A LOW KNOCKING IN MOTOR. IT RAN FOR A FEW MILES, THEN STALLED AT A LIGHT. I TURNED OFF THEN BACK ON THEN MADE IT HOME. AT HOME MY HUSBAND CHECKED THE OIL AND IT LOOKED "MILKY". WHEN HE TRIED TO DRIVE IT TO THE KIA IT MADE A LOUD NOISE IN THE MOTOR AND DIED. WE TOWED IT TO KIA. KIA TELLS US THAT BECAUSE THE OIL IS ""MURKY" THEY WILL NOT UPHOLD THE 100,000 WARRANTY (UNDER 80,000 MILES ON THE CAR). WE BELIEVE THE CHANGE IN OIL IS DUE TO A DEFECT.
NHTSA ODI #11308800
Mileage unknown · Feb 9, 2020
Engine
FEB 07 2020 - MILEAGE: 59,211 - THIS IS MY LAST 'EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION' TEST WITH DEALERSHIP. MY 2017 KIA SORENTO WAS DOWN 1.7 QUARTS OF OIL (MORE LIKE 2 QTS AS THE ENGINE WAS HOT AND THE TECH AGREED, MORE LIKE 2 QTS.) AFTER 1002 MILES, THAT AVERAGES OUT TO ABOUT 1 QT OIL EVERY 500 MILES. THE TECH SAID HE WOULD SUBMIT ALL TE…
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FEB 07 2020 - MILEAGE: 59,211 - THIS IS MY LAST 'EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION' TEST WITH DEALERSHIP. MY 2017 KIA SORENTO WAS DOWN 1.7 QUARTS OF OIL (MORE LIKE 2 QTS AS THE ENGINE WAS HOT AND THE TECH AGREED, MORE LIKE 2 QTS.) AFTER 1002 MILES, THAT AVERAGES OUT TO ABOUT 1 QT OIL EVERY 500 MILES. THE TECH SAID HE WOULD SUBMIT ALL TESTING RESULTS TO KIA MOTORS. HE ALSO SAID TO CHECK OIL EVERY 1000 MILES AND TO ADD OIL IF NEEDED, DO NOT LET IT RUN OUT OF OIL. MY NEXT OIL CHANGE IS SCH AT 61176 MILES, THAT'S ABOUT 1965 MILES, I WILL PROBABLY HAVE TO ADD 3.93 QTS BEFORE MY SCH OIL CHANGE IF STILL 1 QT. EVERY 500 MILES STILL APPLICABLE. THE ORIGINAL DIPSTICK WAS YELLOW, THEY REPLACED IT WITH AN 'ORANGE' ONE EVER SINCE THE TESTING BEGAN. THEY SAID THE ORIGINAL DIPSTICK WAS NOT READING CORRECTLY AND ALL KIAS HAVING THIS 'EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION' PROBLEM WILL HAVE DIPSTICKS REPLACED WITH THE ORANGE ONES.
NHTSA ODI #11307993
Mileage unknown · Jan 23, 2020
EngineUnknown Or Other
JANUARY 17, 2020, I AM STILL UNDER THE EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION TESTING. I WENT TO THE DEALERSHIP AS THEY TOLD ME TO ON DEC. 30 2019, I MET MY 1000 MILES, IT WAS DOWN 1 QT. OF OIL. THE DIPSTICK IS 'SEALED' TO THE ELECTRIC HARNESS, THEY CLAIM IT WILL NOT CATCH ON FIRE. HOPEFULLY IT WON'T. SO FAR WITH THE TESTING, THE OIL IS D…
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JANUARY 17, 2020, I AM STILL UNDER THE EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION TESTING. I WENT TO THE DEALERSHIP AS THEY TOLD ME TO ON DEC. 30 2019, I MET MY 1000 MILES, IT WAS DOWN 1 QT. OF OIL. THE DIPSTICK IS 'SEALED' TO THE ELECTRIC HARNESS, THEY CLAIM IT WILL NOT CATCH ON FIRE. HOPEFULLY IT WON'T. SO FAR WITH THE TESTING, THE OIL IS DOWN 1 QUART EVERY 1000 MILES, THE ENGINE ONLY HOLDS ABT. 5 1/4 QUARTS OF OIL. THE MANUFACTURER RECOMMENDS OIL CHANGE EVERY 7500 MILES. THE SERVICE TECH SAID THEY ARE HAVING EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION PROBLEMS WITH THE 2.0 AND 2.4 ENGINES, I HAVE A 2.4 ENGINE. THIS VEHICLE IS SCARY, I FEEL UNSAFE DRIVING IT, IT MAY CATCH ON FIRE. SERVICE TECH TOLD ME IT WILL TAKE A TOTAL OF 4 SEALED DIPSTICK TESTING, I HAVE TWO MORE TO GO.
NHTSA ODI #11301483
Mileage unknown · Dec 30, 2019
EngineUnknown Or Other
I BROUGHT MY VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP DEC 09 2019 (MILEAGE 56176) AS INSTRUCTED BY SERVICE TECH IN ORDER FOR THEM TO CHECK REASON THIS VEHICLE IS USING A LOT OF OIL IN BETWEEN OIL CHANGES. SERVICE TECH CHECKED OIL AND FOUND OIL WAS DOWN 1.25 QTS. SERVICE TECH OPENED TECH LINE CASE AND SENT PICTURES TO KIA. I WAS INSTRUCTED T…
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I BROUGHT MY VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP DEC 09 2019 (MILEAGE 56176) AS INSTRUCTED BY SERVICE TECH IN ORDER FOR THEM TO CHECK REASON THIS VEHICLE IS USING A LOT OF OIL IN BETWEEN OIL CHANGES. SERVICE TECH CHECKED OIL AND FOUND OIL WAS DOWN 1.25 QTS. SERVICE TECH OPENED TECH LINE CASE AND SENT PICTURES TO KIA. I WAS INSTRUCTED TO RETURN TO DEALERSHIP TO RECHECK OIL LEVEL IN 1000 MILES. TODAY, DEC. 30 2019, (MILEAGE 57231) I RETURNED TO DEALERSHIP. OIL WAS DOWN 1 QT. AFTER 1055 MILES. IF YOU DO THE MATH, ENGINE ONLY HOLDS 5.5 QUARTS OF OIL, IF I GO THE ENTIRE 7500 MILES IN BETWEEN OIL CHANGE(AS PER OWNER MANUAL) I WOULD BE OUT OF OIL.SERVICE TECH ADDED 1 QT. OIL AND PUT IN A SEALED DIPSTICK SO I CANNOT CHECK OIL LEVEL. HOW AM I TO KNOW OIL LEVEL? I PARK VEHICLE IN MY GARAGE. WHEN I QUESTIONED TECH ABOUT THIS HE SAID IT WAS ON KIA'S LIABILITY IF SOMETHING WERE TO HAPPEN. I WOULD KNOW WHEN THE ENGINE IS OUT OF OIL, THE ENGINE WILL START KNOCKING, AND HE MADE THE KNOCKING SOUND ON THE COUNTER. THAT IS REALLY HELPING MY HUSBAND AND I COMFORT LEVEL, IF SOMEONE GETS HURT OR KILLED, WHAT DOES IT MATTER? THERE ARE OTHER PEOPLE ON THE ROADS THAT COULD BE INJURED OR KILLED IF SOMETHING HAPPENS TO MY VEHICLE. MY VEHICLE COULD CATCH ON FIRE, CAUSE INJURIES OR DEATH TO US AND / OR OTHERS. SERVICE TECH WOULD NOT SAY WHAT KIA IS DOING ABOUT THIS MATTER WHEN I ASKED HIM. HE JUST SAID KIA IS LOOKING INTO IT. HE GAVE MY HUSBAND AND I THE IMPRESSION HE KNOWS WHAT IS GOING ON, HE SAID HE WAS NOT AT LIBERTY TO DISCUSS ANY FURTHER. THE SERVICE TECH ALSO STATED THAT IT IS UP TO THE OWNERS TO CHECK THEIR OWN OIL LEVELS. NOW I CANNOT CHECK THE OIL LEVEL, IT HAS A SEALED DIPSTICK. HE IS CONTRADICTING HIMSELF, MAKE NO SENSE.
NHTSA ODI #11292186
30,000 miles · Dec 27, 2019
EngineFuel System, Gasoline
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 KIA SORENTO. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR FLASHED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO METRO KIA OF MADISON (5442 WAYNE TERRACE, MADISON, WI 53718) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V907000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 KIA SORENTO. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR FLASHED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO METRO KIA OF MADISON (5442 WAYNE TERRACE, MADISON, WI 53718) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V907000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE, ENGINE). THE DEALER REPLACED THE KNOCK SENSOR. ON ANOTHER OCCASION, WHILE TRAVELING 45 MPH, THE SAME FAILURE OCCURRED WITH THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR FLASHING. THE CONTACT RETURNED THE VEHICLE TO THE SAME DEALER AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN A NEW UNKNOWN RECALL. THE VEHICLE REMAINED IN THE POSSESSION OF THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 30,000.
NHTSA ODI #11291557
37,000 miles · Dec 23, 2019
Engine
DECEMBER 19,2019 OUR 2017 KIA SORRENTO WITH 37K MILES ON IT WOULD NOT START. THE TEMPERATURE WAS BELOW ZERO AND THOUGHT THAT HAS SOMETHING TO DO WITH IT. INITIALLY THE CAR TRIED TURNING OVER BUT AFTER A FEW ATTEMPTS, IT STOPPED DOING ANYTHING. WE WORKED THROUGH A NUMBER OF PROBLEM SOLVING STEPS AND AFTER A WHILE CALLED ROADSIDE…
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DECEMBER 19,2019 OUR 2017 KIA SORRENTO WITH 37K MILES ON IT WOULD NOT START. THE TEMPERATURE WAS BELOW ZERO AND THOUGHT THAT HAS SOMETHING TO DO WITH IT. INITIALLY THE CAR TRIED TURNING OVER BUT AFTER A FEW ATTEMPTS, IT STOPPED DOING ANYTHING. WE WORKED THROUGH A NUMBER OF PROBLEM SOLVING STEPS AND AFTER A WHILE CALLED ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE AND THEY TOWED THE CAR TO THE KIA DEALERSHIP WHERE WE LEASED IT FROM. ON DECEMBER 23, WE CALLED FOR A STATUS AND WERE TOLD THE ENGINE IS SEIZED. THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT SAID THE OIL DRAINED WAS BLACK AND SLUDGE. THEY WENT ON TO SAY WE DID NOT CHANGE THE OIL AND WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR A NEW ENGINE AND LABOR. THE OIL WAS CHANGED ON TIME AS THE KIA REMINDS YOU OF THE SERVICE. THERE WAS NO NOTICE OR INDICATION THAT THERE WAS AN ISSUE, JUST SEIZED. AT APPROXIMATELY 20,000 MILES ON THE CAR, THE TRANSMISSION BLEW AND NEEDED THAT REPAIRED AS WELL. SEEING OTHERS DESCRIBE A SIMILAR ISSUE MAKES ME THINK THIS IS A DESIGN FLAW. KIA SHOULD MAKE THIS A RECALL AND PROVIDE RESTITUTION.
NHTSA ODI #11290899
Official recalls
4Sep 19, 2022
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Sorento, 2021-2022 Sorento Hybrid (HEV), 2022-2023 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), and 2017-2022 Sportage vehicles equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Kia dealership. Debris and moisture accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will inspect the vehicle, and, as necessary, replace the fuse and/or tow hitch harness module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 11, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC249.
Dec 19, 2018
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Kia has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC172.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Engine
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Kia has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC172.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Kia has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC172.
Sep 21, 2017
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017 Sorento vehicles equipped with 3.3L engines. The engine crankshaft may have been improperly heat treated and may fail.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the crankshaft fails, the engine will stall, increasing the risk of a crash. A failed crankshaft also increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the crankshaft, and, as necessary, replace the engine sub assembly, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC153.
Nov 30, 2016
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Sorento vehicles manufactured October 27, 2014, to August 25, 2016, and 2017 Sportage vehicles manufactured December 10, 2015, to August 26, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness that, due to a malfunction of the tow hitch module, may result in the trailer brake lights being constantly illuminated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the trailer brake lights stay illuminated while being used, other drivers may be confused, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the trailer tow hitch harness, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC142.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Trailer Hitches
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Sorento vehicles manufactured October 27, 2014, to August 25, 2016, and 2017 Sportage vehicles manufactured December 10, 2015, to August 26, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness that, due to a malfunction of the tow hitch module, may result in the trailer brake lights being constantly illuminated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence: If the trailer brake lights stay illuminated while being used, other drivers may be confused, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the trailer tow hitch harness, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC142.
Electrical System
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Sorento vehicles manufactured October 27, 2014, to August 25, 2016, and 2017 Sportage vehicles manufactured December 10, 2015, to August 26, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness that, due to a malfunction of the tow hitch module, may result in the trailer brake lights being constantly illuminated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence: If the trailer brake lights stay illuminated while being used, other drivers may be confused, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the trailer tow hitch harness, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC142.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
3PE23019 · Loss Of Motive Power
Opened Nov 13, 2023 · Closed Jul 23, 2024
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Engine; Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:oil/lubrication:seals/gaskets
On November 13, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE23-019) to investigate allegations of loss of motive power relating to head gasket and/or head bolt failure in Model Year (MY) 2016-2017 Kia Sorento vehicles equipped with the 3.3 L Lambda II engine. When the investigation was opened, ODI had received 13 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) related to reports of loss of motive power. In an information request letter dated November 30, 2023, ODI requested technical information and failure data relating to the alleged defect in the subject MY 2016-2017 Kia Sorento as well as several peer vehicle populations which share the 3.3 L engine. In its February 26, 2024, response to ODI’s information request, Kia provided 2022 customer complaints (including techline and field reports) and 1738 warranty claims representing 2411 unique vehicles within the subject vehicle population. Of the customer complaints provided by Kia, they identified only 53 unique allegations of a loss of motive power resulting from the alleged defect. Kia determined that the remaining reports were minor vehicle drivability or engine performance issues. ODI reviewed the information provided by Kia, along with additional VOQs submitted to NHTSA following the opening of the investigation. When eliminating duplicative reports across the data sources, the total number of allegations of loss of motive power relating to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles is 77, representing an incident report rate of 59 per 100,000 vehicles. The MY 2016 Kia Sorento exhibited both the highest overall complaint rate and loss of motive power report rate across all subject and peer vehicle populations, representing an incident report rate of 102 per 100,000 vehicles. Across all data sources, there are no allegations of crashes or fires relating to the alleged defect. The one injury incident reflected in the failure summary table above is related to a consumer who was reportedly burned (minor burn requiring medical attention) while attempting to remove the coolant reservoir cap following a loss of motive power event. In their response to ODI, Kia described that if the threads of a head bolt hole in the subject engine becomes damaged, the clamping force between the cylinder head and engine block can decrease in the area of the affected head bolt. Kia’s assessment of the alleged defect is that when the failure occurs, drivers are provided with numerous warning signs prior to a potential loss of motive power event. According to Kia, potential warning signs associated with this failure include coolant leak/consumption or noticeable coolant odor, engine oil leak/consumption, engine temperature gauge rising to “H” (hot), check engine light illuminating, engine cooling fan remaining on following the engine being shut off, HVAC system not functioning properly, unusual engine noise, difficulty starting the vehicle, and smoke/condensation emitting from the engine compartment or exhaust. Through both its review of the information provided by Kia and outreach to consumers, ODI confirmed that there is reasonable detectability present in the vast majority of occurrences of the alleged defect. To mitigate the alleged defect, Kia increased the engagement depth of the head bolt threads for all subject engines, beginning in May 2017. ODI’s analysis of the failure data demonstrates that this corrective action correlates with a much lower incident report rate for engines produced following the change (8 per 100,000 vehicles for the MY 2018-2020 Kia Sorento). In December 2023, Kia launched extended warranty campaign WTY035 covering failures associated with the alleged defect in the subject vehicle population through 15 years or 180,000 miles, whichever comes first. Through its investigation, ODI identified the following peer vehicle populations, which were produced prior to the corrective action and exhibit failure rates comparable to the subject vehicles: MY 2014-2015 Kia Sorento, MY 2015-2016 Kia Sedona, and MY 2014-2017 Kia Cadenza equipped with the 3.3 L engine. Through discussions with ODI during the investigation, Kia decided to launch extended warranty campaign WTY039 in May 2024, which covers these peer vehicle populations through 15 years or 180,000 miles, whichever comes first. Based on analysis of the failure data indicating a low incident report rate of loss of motive power for the alleged defect, and in consideration of the warning signs which frequently occur from head gasket and/or head bolt failure in the subject engines, ODI is closing this Preliminary Evaluation. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:oil/lubrication:seals/gaskets
On November 13, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE23-019) to investigate allegations of loss of motive power relating to head gasket and/or head bolt failure in Model Year (MY) 2016-2017 Kia Sorento vehicles equipped with the 3.3 L Lambda II engine. When the investigation was opened, ODI had received 13 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) related to reports of loss of motive power. In an information request letter dated November 30, 2023, ODI requested technical information and failure data relating to the alleged defect in the subject MY 2016-2017 Kia Sorento as well as several peer vehicle populations which share the 3.3 L engine. In its February 26, 2024, response to ODI’s information request, Kia provided 2022 customer complaints (including techline and field reports) and 1738 warranty claims representing 2411 unique vehicles within the subject vehicle population. Of the customer complaints provided by Kia, they identified only 53 unique allegations of a loss of motive power resulting from the alleged defect. Kia determined that the remaining reports were minor vehicle drivability or engine performance issues. ODI reviewed the information provided by Kia, along with additional VOQs submitted to NHTSA following the opening of the investigation. When eliminating duplicative reports across the data sources, the total number of allegations of loss of motive power relating to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles is 77, representing an incident report rate of 59 per 100,000 vehicles. The MY 2016 Kia Sorento exhibited both the highest overall complaint rate and loss of motive power report rate across all subject and peer vehicle populations, representing an incident report rate of 102 per 100,000 vehicles. Across all data sources, there are no allegations of crashes or fires relating to the alleged defect. The one injury incident reflected in the failure summary table above is related to a consumer who was reportedly burned (minor burn requiring medical attention) while attempting to remove the coolant reservoir cap following a loss of motive power event. In their response to ODI, Kia described that if the threads of a head bolt hole in the subject engine becomes damaged, the clamping force between the cylinder head and engine block can decrease in the area of the affected head bolt. Kia’s assessment of the alleged defect is that when the failure occurs, drivers are provided with numerous warning signs prior to a potential loss of motive power event. According to Kia, potential warning signs associated with this failure include coolant leak/consumption or noticeable coolant odor, engine oil leak/consumption, engine temperature gauge rising to “H” (hot), check engine light illuminating, engine cooling fan remaining on following the engine being shut off, HVAC system not functioning properly, unusual engine noise, difficulty starting the vehicle, and smoke/condensation emitting from the engine compartment or exhaust. Through both its review of the information provided by Kia and outreach to consumers, ODI confirmed that there is reasonable detectability present in the vast majority of occurrences of the alleged defect. To mitigate the alleged defect, Kia increased the engagement depth of the head bolt threads for all subject engines, beginning in May 2017. ODI’s analysis of the failure data demonstrates that this corrective action correlates with a much lower incident report rate for engines produced following the change (8 per 100,000 vehicles for the MY 2018-2020 Kia Sorento). In December 2023, Kia launched extended warranty campaign WTY035 covering failures associated with the alleged defect in the subject vehicle population through 15 years or 180,000 miles, whichever comes first. Through its investigation, ODI identified the following peer vehicle populations, which were produced prior to the corrective action and exhibit failure rates comparable to the subject vehicles: MY 2014-2015 Kia Sorento, MY 2015-2016 Kia Sedona, and MY 2014-2017 Kia Cadenza equipped with the 3.3 L engine. Through discussions with ODI during the investigation, Kia decided to launch extended warranty campaign WTY039 in May 2024, which covers these peer vehicle populations through 15 years or 180,000 miles, whichever comes first. Based on analysis of the failure data indicating a low incident report rate of loss of motive power for the alleged defect, and in consideration of the warning signs which frequently occur from head gasket and/or head bolt failure in the subject engines, ODI is closing this Preliminary Evaluation. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Engine
On November 13, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE23-019) to investigate allegations of loss of motive power relating to head gasket and/or head bolt failure in Model Year (MY) 2016-2017 Kia Sorento vehicles equipped with the 3.3 L Lambda II engine. When the investigation was opened, ODI had received 13 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) related to reports of loss of motive power. In an information request letter dated November 30, 2023, ODI requested technical information and failure data relating to the alleged defect in the subject MY 2016-2017 Kia Sorento as well as several peer vehicle populations which share the 3.3 L engine. In its February 26, 2024, response to ODI’s information request, Kia provided 2022 customer complaints (including techline and field reports) and 1738 warranty claims representing 2411 unique vehicles within the subject vehicle population. Of the customer complaints provided by Kia, they identified only 53 unique allegations of a loss of motive power resulting from the alleged defect. Kia determined that the remaining reports were minor vehicle drivability or engine performance issues. ODI reviewed the information provided by Kia, along with additional VOQs submitted to NHTSA following the opening of the investigation. When eliminating duplicative reports across the data sources, the total number of allegations of loss of motive power relating to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles is 77, representing an incident report rate of 59 per 100,000 vehicles. The MY 2016 Kia Sorento exhibited both the highest overall complaint rate and loss of motive power report rate across all subject and peer vehicle populations, representing an incident report rate of 102 per 100,000 vehicles. Across all data sources, there are no allegations of crashes or fires relating to the alleged defect. The one injury incident reflected in the failure summary table above is related to a consumer who was reportedly burned (minor burn requiring medical attention) while attempting to remove the coolant reservoir cap following a loss of motive power event. In their response to ODI, Kia described that if the threads of a head bolt hole in the subject engine becomes damaged, the clamping force between the cylinder head and engine block can decrease in the area of the affected head bolt. Kia’s assessment of the alleged defect is that when the failure occurs, drivers are provided with numerous warning signs prior to a potential loss of motive power event. According to Kia, potential warning signs associated with this failure include coolant leak/consumption or noticeable coolant odor, engine oil leak/consumption, engine temperature gauge rising to “H” (hot), check engine light illuminating, engine cooling fan remaining on following the engine being shut off, HVAC system not functioning properly, unusual engine noise, difficulty starting the vehicle, and smoke/condensation emitting from the engine compartment or exhaust. Through both its review of the information provided by Kia and outreach to consumers, ODI confirmed that there is reasonable detectability present in the vast majority of occurrences of the alleged defect. To mitigate the alleged defect, Kia increased the engagement depth of the head bolt threads for all subject engines, beginning in May 2017. ODI’s analysis of the failure data demonstrates that this corrective action correlates with a much lower incident report rate for engines produced following the change (8 per 100,000 vehicles for the MY 2018-2020 Kia Sorento). In December 2023, Kia launched extended warranty campaign WTY035 covering failures associated with the alleged defect in the subject vehicle population through 15 years or 180,000 miles, whichever comes first. Through its investigation, ODI identified the following peer vehicle populations, which were produced prior to the corrective action and exhibit failure rates comparable to the subject vehicles: MY 2014-2015 Kia Sorento, MY 2015-2016 Kia Sedona, and MY 2014-2017 Kia Cadenza equipped with the 3.3 L engine. Through discussions with ODI during the investigation, Kia decided to launch extended warranty campaign WTY039 in May 2024, which covers these peer vehicle populations through 15 years or 180,000 miles, whichever comes first. Based on analysis of the failure data indicating a low incident report rate of loss of motive power for the alleged defect, and in consideration of the warning signs which frequently occur from head gasket and/or head bolt failure in the subject engines, ODI is closing this Preliminary Evaluation. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
DP22003 · Loss Of Motive Power
Opened Sep 12, 2022 · Closed Dec 12, 2023
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Engine
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain Hyundai Motor America, Inc. and Kia America, Inc. vehicles spanning Model Years (MY) 2005-2021. The Petitioners cited examples of complaints indicating that the subject vehicles were experiencing rapid loss of engine oil due to oil drain plug back outs, resulting in loss of motive power and/or catastrophic engine damage. Additional complaints were provided which alleged that the oil drain pans lack sufficient structural integrity and are susceptible to cracking. The petition itself can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI number 11481745. On September 12, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Defect Petition (DP22-003) to evaluate the Petitioners’ request. The Petitioners have provided additional complaints within four supplemental letters dated January 31, 2023, March 21, 2023, May 23, 2023, and August 4, 2023. ODI’s evaluation included the review and analysis of the complaints and supporting information submitted by the Petitioners, as well as additional complaints submitted directly to NHTSA which referenced either the oil drain plug or a crack in the oil pan. After reviewing the available data, ODI has not identified evidence that would support opening a defect investigation into the oil drain pan assemblies of the subject vehicles. Based on a review of the available information, a loss of motive power resulting from an oil drain plug back out has not occurred between the initial sale of a vehicle and the completion of its first oil change. If during an oil change service, a technician fails to remove the existing drain plug gasket before installing a new gasket, it is likely that a proper seal between the drain plug and the oil pan will not be made. An improper seal between the drain plug and oil pan could lead to the backing out on the drain plug, resulting in the sudden loss of oil while driving. Additionally, the provided examples of oil pan cracks were localized to the immediate vicinity of the oil drain plug and/or appeared to be the result of direct-contact with a tool during servicing. There is no information to support that a vehicle-based defect exists relating to the oil pan assembly, and instead the documented incidents are related to the failure to follow the proper maintenance procedures during oil change service. In October 2023, Hyundai published a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that provided detailed instructions for oil change service on its gasoline powered vehicles, specifically highlighting the need to remove and replace the existing drain plug gasket prior to reinstalling the drain plug. After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, the information already in NHTSA's possession, and the potential risks to motor vehicle safety implicated by the petitioners' allegations, NHTSA does not believe that a formal investigation is warranted. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA’s reasons for denial of the petition will be published. The reference numbers for the complaints to NHTSA cited by the petitioner can be found in the petition submission documents in the public file for DP22-003. To review those complaints and the additional complaints ODI added to its evaluation which are cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
DP21002 · Engine Oil Pressure Switch Leak
Opened Nov 12, 2021 · Closed Jun 26, 2023
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Engine; Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:oil/lubrication:pressure/temperature Sensor
In a letter dated September 30, 2021, Mr. Gerald James (the petitioner) requested that NHTSA conduct an investigation of the Model Year (MY) 2015-2017 Kia Sorento equipped with 3.3L V6 ?Lambda? engines for ?severe oil leaks? from the oil pressure switch (OPS) that could ?lead to engine failure? with little warning to the driver. Mr. James based this request on his own experience and data found in NHTSA?s Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) database. NHTSA reviewed the material cited by the petitioner, information submitted by Kia, NHTSA?s testing, and other pertinent information in NHTSA databases.On November 12, 2021, ODI opened Defect Petition DP21-002 to evaluate the petitioner?s request. ODI performed an analysis that included evaluation of the petitioner?s vehicle, searches of ODI complaints from vehicle owners, non-dealer field reports, manufacturers? supplemental information relating to design of the component, and component testing performed by ODI.On December 16, 2021, ODI and Kia North America performed a joint inspection on the petitioner?s vehicle. ODI and Kia agreed the OPS was leaking oil and observed oil in the crevices atop the engine block. The vehicle received a new replacement OPS and was delivered back to the petitioner. The original part that was removed from the subject vehicle was retained by ODI for further analysis.As of December 30, 2022, for the MY 2015-2017 Kia Sorento population of 161,519 vehicles with 3.3L engine, NHTSA reviewed internal data and has identified no consumer complaints or field reports in its database, with unique Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN), citing engine failure or stalling related to the petition?s allegation of defective OPS. When combined with the supplemental warranty and technical analysis from the manufacturer, field report and customer complaint data in response to the Information Request letter sent, NHTSA identified no unique VINs alleging engine failure or stalls caused by OPS leaking on the subject vehicles named in the petition.On April 4, 2022, the Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) performed testing of the petitioner?s component (OPS) based on testing protocol consistent with Kia?s specifications for the subject vehicle. The testing involved the petitioner?s original OPS in a controlled system to replicate the subject vehicle?s oil pressure, flow, and temperature. VRTC determined that a vehicle would have to miss more than a dozen oil change intervals to reach low engine oil capacity. Testing also revealed the OPS would operate, as manufacturer intended, illuminating the vehicle?s MIL to alert the driver of lower oil pressure.In April of 2022, Kia North America issued a warranty extension that extended the coverage of the Oil Pressure Switch from 5 years/60,000 miles to 15 years/150,000 miles on MY 2014-2018 Sorento, MY 2014-2016 Cadenza, and MY 2015-2018 Sedona vehicles, all equipped with the 3.3L Lambda engine. The extended warranty coverage includes diagnosis, repair, and applies to customers experiencing engine oil leaking from the engine or if the engine oil pressure warning light stays illuminated after the engine is turned on.After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, information already in NHTSA's possession, testing performed by VRTC, technical information provided by Kia, the potential risks to safety implicated by the petitioner's allegation, NHTSA does not believe that an engine failure due to the alleged defect is likely and does not warrant a formal investigation. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA?s reasons for denial of the petition will be publi
Additional source detail variants (2)
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:oil/lubrication:pressure/temperature Sensor
In a letter dated September 30, 2021, Mr. Gerald James (the petitioner) requested that NHTSA conduct an investigation of the Model Year (MY) 2015-2017 Kia Sorento equipped with 3.3L V6 ?Lambda? engines for ?severe oil leaks? from the oil pressure switch (OPS) that could ?lead to engine failure? with little warning to the driver. Mr. James based this request on his own experience and data found in NHTSA?s Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) database. NHTSA reviewed the material cited by the petitioner, information submitted by Kia, NHTSA?s testing, and other pertinent information in NHTSA databases.On November 12, 2021, ODI opened Defect Petition DP21-002 to evaluate the petitioner?s request. ODI performed an analysis that included evaluation of the petitioner?s vehicle, searches of ODI complaints from vehicle owners, non-dealer field reports, manufacturers? supplemental information relating to design of the component, and component testing performed by ODI.On December 16, 2021, ODI and Kia North America performed a joint inspection on the petitioner?s vehicle. ODI and Kia agreed the OPS was leaking oil and observed oil in the crevices atop the engine block. The vehicle received a new replacement OPS and was delivered back to the petitioner. The original part that was removed from the subject vehicle was retained by ODI for further analysis.As of December 30, 2022, for the MY 2015-2017 Kia Sorento population of 161,519 vehicles with 3.3L engine, NHTSA reviewed internal data and has identified no consumer complaints or field reports in its database, with unique Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN), citing engine failure or stalling related to the petition?s allegation of defective OPS. When combined with the supplemental warranty and technical analysis from the manufacturer, field report and customer complaint data in response to the Information Request letter sent, NHTSA identified no unique VINs alleging engine failure or stalls caused by OPS leaking on the subject vehicles named in the petition.On April 4, 2022, the Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) performed testing of the petitioner?s component (OPS) based on testing protocol consistent with Kia?s specifications for the subject vehicle. The testing involved the petitioner?s original OPS in a controlled system to replicate the subject vehicle?s oil pressure, flow, and temperature. VRTC determined that a vehicle would have to miss more than a dozen oil change intervals to reach low engine oil capacity. Testing also revealed the OPS would operate, as manufacturer intended, illuminating the vehicle?s MIL to alert the driver of lower oil pressure.In April of 2022, Kia North America issued a warranty extension that extended the coverage of the Oil Pressure Switch from 5 years/60,000 miles to 15 years/150,000 miles on MY 2014-2018 Sorento, MY 2014-2016 Cadenza, and MY 2015-2018 Sedona vehicles, all equipped with the 3.3L Lambda engine. The extended warranty coverage includes diagnosis, repair, and applies to customers experiencing engine oil leaking from the engine or if the engine oil pressure warning light stays illuminated after the engine is turned on.After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, information already in NHTSA's possession, testing performed by VRTC, technical information provided by Kia, the potential risks to safety implicated by the petitioner's allegation, NHTSA does not believe that an engine failure due to the alleged defect is likely and does not warrant a formal investigation. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA?s reasons for denial of the petition will be publi
Engine
In a letter dated September 30, 2021, Mr. Gerald James (the petitioner) requested that NHTSA conduct an investigation of the Model Year (MY) 2015-2017 Kia Sorento equipped with 3.3L V6 ?Lambda? engines for ?severe oil leaks? from the oil pressure switch (OPS) that could ?lead to engine failure? with little warning to the driver. Mr. James based this request on his own experience and data found in NHTSA?s Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) database. NHTSA reviewed the material cited by the petitioner, information submitted by Kia, NHTSA?s testing, and other pertinent information in NHTSA databases.On November 12, 2021, ODI opened Defect Petition DP21-002 to evaluate the petitioner?s request. ODI performed an analysis that included evaluation of the petitioner?s vehicle, searches of ODI complaints from vehicle owners, non-dealer field reports, manufacturers? supplemental information relating to design of the component, and component testing performed by ODI.On December 16, 2021, ODI and Kia North America performed a joint inspection on the petitioner?s vehicle. ODI and Kia agreed the OPS was leaking oil and observed oil in the crevices atop the engine block. The vehicle received a new replacement OPS and was delivered back to the petitioner. The original part that was removed from the subject vehicle was retained by ODI for further analysis.As of December 30, 2022, for the MY 2015-2017 Kia Sorento population of 161,519 vehicles with 3.3L engine, NHTSA reviewed internal data and has identified no consumer complaints or field reports in its database, with unique Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN), citing engine failure or stalling related to the petition?s allegation of defective OPS. When combined with the supplemental warranty and technical analysis from the manufacturer, field report and customer complaint data in response to the Information Request letter sent, NHTSA identified no unique VINs alleging engine failure or stalls caused by OPS leaking on the subject vehicles named in the petition.On April 4, 2022, the Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) performed testing of the petitioner?s component (OPS) based on testing protocol consistent with Kia?s specifications for the subject vehicle. The testing involved the petitioner?s original OPS in a controlled system to replicate the subject vehicle?s oil pressure, flow, and temperature. VRTC determined that a vehicle would have to miss more than a dozen oil change intervals to reach low engine oil capacity. Testing also revealed the OPS would operate, as manufacturer intended, illuminating the vehicle?s MIL to alert the driver of lower oil pressure.In April of 2022, Kia North America issued a warranty extension that extended the coverage of the Oil Pressure Switch from 5 years/60,000 miles to 15 years/150,000 miles on MY 2014-2018 Sorento, MY 2014-2016 Cadenza, and MY 2015-2018 Sedona vehicles, all equipped with the 3.3L Lambda engine. The extended warranty coverage includes diagnosis, repair, and applies to customers experiencing engine oil leaking from the engine or if the engine oil pressure warning light stays illuminated after the engine is turned on.After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, information already in NHTSA's possession, testing performed by VRTC, technical information provided by Kia, the potential risks to safety implicated by the petitioner's allegation, NHTSA does not believe that an engine failure due to the alleged defect is likely and does not warrant a formal investigation. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA?s reasons for denial of the petition will be publi
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