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NHTSA Recall 20V750000: Engine

Kia Motors America reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 294,756 vehicles. It affects 6 models including the Kia Forte.

294,756
vehicles potentially affected
6
models affected
2021
owners notified (January 25)
NHTSA campaign20V750000
Manufacturer campaignSC200
ComponentENGINE
Report receivedDecember 2, 2020
Owner notificationJanuary 25, 2021
Initiated byNHTSA Office of Defects Investigation

Defect

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.

Safety risk

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.

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.safercar.gov.

Vehicles covered by recall 20V750000

Make and modelModel years
Kia Forte2012, 2013, 2014, 2015
Kia Forte Koup2012, 2013, 2014, 2015
Kia Optima Hybrid2011, 2012, 2013
Kia Sorento2012, 2013
Kia Soul2014, 2015
Kia Sportage2012

Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.