Kia Recall 20V-519: Service brakes, hydraulic – control unit/module

Affected: 2013–2015 Kia Optima, 2014–2015 Kia Sorento. Filed with NHTSA on August 27, 2020, covering about 440,370 vehicles.

Park outside: the manufacturer advises owners to park outside and away from structures until repaired.

The problem

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.

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 HECU for leaking brake fluid and replace the HECU if necessary, free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside and away from other vehicles and structures until the recall repair is completed. The recall began October 20, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC197.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign20V-519 (20V519000)
Manufacturer numberSC197
ManufacturerKia America, Inc.
ComponentService brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip › Control unit/module
Report dateAugust 27, 2020
Owners notifiedOctober 20, 2020
Vehicles affected440,370
Initiated byNHTSA investigation

Vehicles covered

Owner complaints about the brakes

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 20V-519 repair free?

Yes. Kia dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the HECU for leaking brake fluid and replace the HECU if necessary, free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside and away from other vehicles and structures until the recall repair is completed.

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 440,370 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Is it safe to drive?

Owners are advised to park outside and away from buildings until the repair is done, because of a fire risk.

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.