The problem
Kia is recalling certain model year 2006-2008 optima vehicles manufactured from September 29, 2005, through June 13, 2007. There is a possibility that the shift cable May have been installed incorrectly, causing tension in the cable. If present, this condition could cause the cable to detach from the shifter assembly's dowel pin preventing the transmission from being shifted. The shift lever can then be moved into the park (p) position while the vehicle's transmission is still in the last used gear before detachment.
The risk
If the driver leaves the vehicle without engaging the parking brake, there is a possibility that the vehicle can roll injure a person in its path or cause a crash.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the shift cable and reinstall if necessary free of charge. The safety recall began on March 23, 2011. Owner May contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 11V-153 (11V153000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | SC088 |
| Manufacturer | Kia America, Inc. |
| Component | Power train › Automatic transmission › Lever and linkage › Column shift |
| Report date | March 9, 2011 |
| Owners notified | March 23, 2011 |
| Vehicles affected | 70,115 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the transmission & drivetrain
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 11V-153 repair free?
Yes. Kia dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect the shift cable and reinstall if necessary free of charge. The safety recall began on March 23, 2011. Owner May contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 70,115 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.