Kia Optima recall: Hybrid Propulsion System
Official safety recall 18V161000 published by NHTSA.
High risk
Contact an authorised dealer of the maker. Recall repairs are free of charge.
Affected vehicles
| Vehicle | Model year | Market |
|---|---|---|
| Kia Optima | 2017 | United States |
| Kia Optima | 2018 | United States |
The problem
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Optima hybrid vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with a Voltage Protection Device (VPD), designed to protect the high voltage battery module, that may activate inadvertently.
If the VPD activates while the vehicle is being operated in Electric Vehicle (EV) mode, there may be a loss of power, increasing the risk of a crash.
The official remedy
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will remove the VPD switch and install two newly designed Battery Management Systems (BMS) that contain Overvoltage Protection Devices (OPDs), free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC162.