Kia Forte koup problems

General information about Kia Forte koup
Kia Forte koup years list
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Kia Forte, known as the K3 in Asia, the Forte K3 or Shuma in China and Cerato in South America, Australia, New Zealand and Russia, is a compact car manufactured by South Korean automaker Kia since mid-2008, replacing the Kia Spectra. It is available in two-door coupe, four-door sedan, five-door hatchback variants. It is not available in Europe, where the similar sized Kia Ceed is offered (except for Russia and Ukraine, where the Ceed and the Forte are both available).

In some markets, such as Costa Rica, Australia and Brazil, the Forte is marketed as Kia Cerato, replacing its predecessor of the same name. In Colombia and Singapore, the name Cerato Forte was used for the second generation, while Naza Automotive Manufacturing of Malaysia has assembled the vehicle since 2009, selling it there under the name Naza Forte.

First generation (TD; 2008)

The first generation Forte was introduced in 2008. In North America, the Forte replaced the Kia Spectra, while the Forte retained the Cerato name in numerous markets. It shares the same platform as the Hyundai Avante/Elantra (HD), though employing a torsion-beam rear suspension in place of the Elantra's multilink design. Kia has stated that the Forte was specifically designed to target younger buyers attracted to sharper auto designs.

Succeeding the first generation Cerato or second generation Spectra, several elements of the interior and suspension were changed. The car received a wider (4 cm) and longer (3 cm) body, a longer (4 cm) wheelbase and a wider (7 cm) gauge. However, ground clearance was reduced by a centimeter, thereby reducing the height by a centimeter. At the same time, the design of the rear suspension was simplified, which instead of independent multilink thrust became semi-dependent double-lever, with an elastic beam, which made it more reliable and easy to repair and maintain.

Three body styles, which are compact 4-door sedan, 5-door hatchback, and a new 2-door coupe body style was introduced.

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Common Kia Forte koup problems

The Kia Forte Koup has been known to have several common issues, particularly in the 2010, 2012, and 2013 model years. These problems range from engine issues to structural problems and electronic malfunctions.

Engine issues are a significant concern for Kia Forte Koup owners. The 2010 model year, in particular, has received many complaints about engine knocking, especially at higher RPMs. This problem can be indicative of more severe internal engine damage, as evidenced by reports of metal flakes in the oil pan. Some owners have reported engine fires, which pose significant safety risks to drivers and passengers. The 2012 model year has also had a notable number of engine-related complaints, including knocking sounds, oil leaks, complete engine failure, and even engine fires. The 2013 model year has also had similar issues, with reports of engine knocking and complete engine failure.

In addition to engine issues, the Kia Forte Koup has also had structural problems. The steering coupler has been a common failure point, causing a ticking noise when rotating the steering wheel. The power trunk release latch is another failure point, often due to issues with the cabin-mounted button or wiring harness.

Electronic malfunctions are another common issue with the Kia Forte Koup. The 2014 model year has been particularly affected, with reports of faulty cooling fans and a malfunctioning electric system. These issues can cause the engine to overheat, increasing the possibility of an engine fire. The 2014 model has also had issues with the brake pedal stopper, causing the brake lights to stay illuminated when the car is not braking or in park. This can increase the risk of an accident. The exterior lights in general are also known to burn out prematurely, due to voltage issues in the wiring harnesses.

Despite these common issues, Kia vehicles are still a great option for shoppers looking for a reliable and stylish vehicle at an affordable price. It is essential to be aware of these common problems and to maintain the vehicle properly to prevent them from occurring. If you have any questions about a given repair, it is always best to consult with a professional mechanic.

What is the most common problem with the Kia Forte?

With proper maintenance and good driving habits, you'll have no trouble getting this car to over 200,000 miles. There are, however, some issues surrounding the Forte across various model years. Some of these include defective speakers, faulty ignition coils, lighting issues, and leaky interiors, among others.

Is the Kia Forte koup reliable?

According to RepairPal, the Kia Forte Koup has a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0, making it the 11th most reliable compact car out of 36 automakers. With that said, below are the Forte Koup years to avoid due to the high number of complaints and known reliability issues (mostly the faulty engines).

What years to avoid with Kia?

Used Cars to Avoid Buying

	Model	Year(s) to Avoid
Kia	Forte	2017, 2019
Kia	Niro Electric	2019
Kia	Optima	2012
Kia	Sorento	2012-2013, 2020

What years did Kia Forte have engine problems?

The most severe problem with the Kia Forte is with the Theta II engine found in 2012 to 2015 models. This engine design is known to be highly problematic, with serious issues affecting Fortes equipped with the 2.0L or 2.4L engines. Engine problems include oil leaks, knocks, and complete engine failure.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Kia Forte koup years

We have researched Kia problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Kia Forte koup cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Kia Forte koup model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Kia Forte koup model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Kia Forte koup years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Kia Forte koup car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Kia Forte koup , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

Engine problems
Air bags problems
Electrical system problems
Service brakes problems
Unknown or other problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Kia Forte koup vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Forte koup model years

A total of 106 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Forte koup model years

There were a total of 80 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Forte koup model years

There were a total of 103 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Forte koup model years

There were a total of 5 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 1135 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Kia Forte koup . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Kia Forte koup vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Kia Forte koup 2013

Date Of Incident: 2024-10-05
Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
Number Of Injuries: 1
Fire: 1
VIN: KNAFW6A30D5
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: On [XXX] , my 2013 Kia Forte SX Koup caught fire while I was driving on the tollway. Kia failed to notify me that I was sold a Lemon Car, leading to this life-threatening incident. The steering wheel and gas pedal became unresponsive, and my brakes stiffened, making it extremely difficult to stop. I feared for my life and safety as I struggled to pull over. After parking, I smelled fumes and saw fire under the hood. I called 911, and emergency services arrived to extinguish the fire. As a result, I now have respiratory issues from inhaling fumes, migraines from hitting my head, and a pulled muscle from forcing the locked steering. I have been unable to seek medical care due to the financial burden of renting a car, which has cost me $1,083.74 so far, using funds intended for rent. I contacted Kia on October 9th, 2024, but they delayed their response until October 15th. Since then, they have continuously prolonged the process, now saying it will take over a month and a half. Kia also failed to notify me of a recall related to this issue, which I later discovered on my own. I am requesting immediate action from Kia, including reimbursement for my rental, vehicle replacement, and compensation for medical expenses. Kia's delays and lack of concern for my safety and well-being are unacceptable. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

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Kia Forte koup 2011

Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
VIN: KNAFT4A25B5
Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
Summary: Recalls

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Kia Forte koup 2016

Date Of Incident: 2023-08-17
Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
Number Of Injuries: 2
Crash: 1
VIN: KNAFK5A87G5
Components: ENGINE
Summary: We used to have a 2016 Kia Forte5 LX hatchback we been having problems with this vehicle the car would stall and it was having electrical problems like my turn signals not working even when the bulbs were replaced and same thing to the brake lights prior after I noticed the problem with the car was going to take it in to get ot looked at and serviced when exiting my home with the car and turning left the vehicle stalled while in drive I did have my emergency flash on but the other cars didn’t seem to notice the vehicle got t boned and we got in to a accident when trying to get this issue resolved

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Kia Forte koup 2013

Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
Fire: 1
VIN: KNAFU4A20D5
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Kia Forte EX. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving 55 MPH, she noticed smoke emerging from the vehicle. The driver pulled over and called roadside assistance. All the warning lights illuminated. Upon arrival, roadside assistance informed the driver the engine had caught fire and had seized. It was unknown how the fire was extinguished. The contact stated that the failure was due to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who informed him the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The local dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was contacted, who started a claim. The manufacturer requested a photo of the engine but the contact stated that he did not have any photos. The failure mileage was approximately 118,150.

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Kia Forte koup 2012

Date Of Incident: 2024-08-15
Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
VIN: KNAFW5A34C5
Components: ENGINE
Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Forte. The contact stated that when her spouse started the vehicle, there was a knocking sound coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was taken a Midas where the vehicle remained without being diagnosed. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that undisclosed parts needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage approximately 160,000.

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Kia Forte koup 2016

Date Of Incident: 2023-04-09
Date Complaint: 2024-09-27
VIN: KNAFK4A61G5
Components: ENGINE
Summary: When driving slow speeds such as driving through a parking lot my car stalls the radio plays without interruption and would not know it stalls except for the oil pan light and unable to accelerate because the car stalled all the leads me to believe the engine is at fault. When stalled at that point I pull over turn the key off then on starting the car back up (immediately starts without issue). I have searched for error codes and it is like the car doesn't know there is a problem. Below is one of the many forums complaining about the same issue. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

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Kia Forte koup 2012

Date Of Incident: 2017-08-01
Date Complaint: 2024-09-18
VIN: KNAFW5A3XC5
Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
Summary: Engine keeps turning off when driving at 65 mph it also jerks accelerate by itself loosen power it occurs occasionally, engine smells burn oil and engine light comes on. Dealer has failed to reproduce failure and now they want to charge me $185 to run a full diagnose this problem started after 8/16/2017 after dealer service

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Kia Forte koup 2012

Date Of Incident: 2024-09-10
Date Complaint: 2024-09-12
VIN: KNAFU4A24C5
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
Summary: After taking my 2012 Kia Forte EX to the dealership for the fire risk recall (recall number 23V652), the dealership replaced fuses as part of the recall. Despite this, major safety issues persisted: 1. Brake fluid leak – The leak was not resolved after the recall repair, and my brake pedal continues to go all the way to the floor, creating a critical safety hazard. 2. Brake warning light – The brake warning light remains on, indicating ongoing brake system issues. 3. Traction control warning light – A squiggly line symbol appeared, suggesting further malfunctions related to the vehicle’s stability control system. 4. Burning smell – Despite the dealership’s claim that the recall repair was completed, I still detect a burning smell from the vehicle, raising serious concerns about unresolved fire risks. When I contacted Kia Customer Care at +1-800-333-4542, I was informed that the brake issues and fluid leak were “unrelated to the recall,” and I was told that I would have to pay out-of-pocket for towing, diagnostics, and repairs—exactly as the dealership had also insisted. This response has left me in a vulnerable position, both financially and in terms of vehicle safety, as I am unable to cover these unexpected costs on my own. Additionally, I was forced to drive my car home with the brake pedal going to the floor, endangering my life and the safety of others on the road. The dealership delayed addressing these serious issues, rushed the repair, and failed to fully assess the depth of the recall symptoms. Their negligence, coupled with Kia’s refusal to take responsibility, has exacerbated the situation. Given the financial strain and the unsafe condition of my vehicle, I urgently request a loaner car until all issues related to the recall are thoroughly addressed, whether Kia wants to take responsibility for these problems or not. The vehicle is simply not safe to drive in its current state, and I should not be expected to bear the financial burden of fixing what appe

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Kia Forte koup 2014

Date Of Incident: 2024-08-21
Date Complaint: 2024-08-28
VIN: KNAFK4A69E5
Components: STEERING
Summary: The contact's mother owns a 2014 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving and turning the steering wheel, the steering wheel made an abnormal popping sound. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the flexible coupling in the MDPS (motor-driven power steering) needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to Kia Campaign Number: 074. The dealer was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact the VIN was not covered under the campaign. The failure mileage was approximately 43,350.

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Kia Forte koup 2016

Date Of Incident: 2024-08-15
Date Complaint: 2024-08-27
VIN: KNAFK4A67G5
Components: SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Summary: In December 2023 the dashboard ABS, ESC and Brake Dashboard warning lights came on the car while driving. I checked for any ABS codes and noted a C2374 code. The car did not show any handling issues and I attributed it to a anomaly. However over 2024 the lights have come back on but they disapear when the car is turned off and then restarted. As this is happening frequently during the past 3 months I took it to two KIA dealers to have it reviewed. Both dealers say the HECU ( Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit) is failing. As the car now has 110,000 miles on it I was told by KIA that this is passed the warranty and not covered. I am surprised that a safety device is not covered and as this device requires no maintenance by the customer I attribute this to a premature part failure. I note there has been a related safety Recall Report 23E-073 issued for this part. I included the dealers diagnostic reports. If this vehicle is unsafe to drive then I need to be aware of that and KIA should investigate for similar occurrences.

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Kia Forte koup 2014

Date Of Incident: 2024-08-18
Date Complaint: 2024-08-18
VIN: KNAFK4A68E5
Components: STRUCTURE
Summary: While driving down the road the hood just opened shattering the windshield. Closed the hood back and drove down the road and it did it again.

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Kia Forte koup 2014

Date Of Incident: 2024-05-06
Date Complaint: 2024-08-06
VIN: KNAFX4A69E5
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while buckling the driver's side front seat belt buckle, the front driver's seat belt buckle failed to lock securely as intended. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with front driver's side seat belt buckle failure. The contact was informed that the front driver's side seat belt buckle needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 198,000.

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Kia Forte koup 2014

Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
Date Complaint: 2024-08-02
VIN: KNAFX5A80E5
Components: STEERING
Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Kia Forte. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel made an abnormal sound and jerked abnormally. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the flexible coupling valves needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to an unknown recall and to Customer Satisfaction Program: CS1604/WTY006. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was 11,503.

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Kia Forte koup 2016

Date Of Incident: 2024-06-28
Date Complaint: 2024-08-02
VIN: KNAFK5A8XG5
Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,WHEELS,ENGINE
Summary: VEHICLE ISSUED DTC'S P1326 AND CAR FAILED COMPLETELY IN THE MIDDLE OF A VERY BUSY EXPRESSWAY

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Kia Forte koup 2016

Date Of Incident: 2024-07-16
Date Complaint: 2024-07-30
VIN: KNAFK4A6XG5
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
Summary: I was two states away at conference for my side job. My car turned off without warning. No lights no nothing. I couldn't use my hazards or anything. It was dark outside already. I called AAA and the person with me called 911. Someone stopped and jumped me off. We got back to the hotel. The next day another consultants husband looked at my car and we discovered there was no oil in the engine. I had driven more than 450 miles to get to conference the day before by myself. The oil light had never came on during my trip. It only came on when my entire instrument panel lit up when the car cutoff. I am a female and was traveling by myself and put over 1100 miles on my car that trip. If it had turned off at any point on my trip before I had gotten to my destination I would have been alone and not known what to do. If I had not had AAA I would have possible had to pay a tow truck that night. I am disappointed that the light didn't give me a warning something was wrong or going wrong. Luckily, I didn't blow my engine

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Latest 5 recalls Kia Forte koup

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 14 recalls for different components of the Kia Forte koup.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

Model: Kia Forte koup 2010
Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
Park Out Side: 1
Park Out Side: 1
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Consequence: An engine compartment 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 replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.

Model: Kia Forte koup 2013
Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
Park Out Side: 1
Park Out Side: 1
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Consequence: An engine compartment 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 replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.

Model: Kia Forte koup 2012
Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
Park Out Side: 1
Park Out Side: 1
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Consequence: An engine compartment 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 replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.

Model: Kia Forte koup 2011
Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
Park Out Side: 1
Park Out Side: 1
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Consequence: An engine compartment 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 replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.

Model: Kia Forte koup 2013
Report Received Date: 2020-12-02
Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
Components: ENGINE
Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2013 Sorento, 2012-2015 Forte and Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, 2014-2015 Soul, and 2012 Sportage vehicles. An engine compartment fire can occur while driving.
Consequence: An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine compartment for fuel and/or engine oil leaks, perform an engine test and make any repairs, including engine replacement, as necessary, free of charge. In addition, Kia dealers will update the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software, free of charge. The recall began January 27, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC200.