The problem
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2008-2009 Kia Sportage vehicles manufactured August 9, 2007, to May 13, 2009. The wire harness cover on the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may be improperly sealed allowing water to get onto the HECU circuit board. If the water is contaminated with salt, such as could occur from melted snow, the wire harness connector pins may corrode and the circuit board may short circuit.
The risk
If the HECU short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.
The fix
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the connector pins for corrosion, if no corrosion is found, the connector cover will be replaced. If corrosion is present, the dealer will replace the HECU assembly and the connector cover, free of charge. The recall began on November 28, 2016. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC138.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 16V-815 (16V815000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | SC138 |
| Manufacturer | Kia America, Inc. |
| Component | Electrical system › Wiring |
| Report date | November 10, 2016 |
| Owners notified | December 28, 2016 |
| Vehicles affected | 71,704 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the electrical system
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 16V-815 repair free?
Yes. Kia dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the connector pins for corrosion, if no corrosion is found, the connector cover will be replaced. If corrosion is present, the dealer will replace the HECU assembly and the connector cover, free of charge.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 71,704 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.