The problem
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.
The risk
An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
The fix
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.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 20V-750 (20V750000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | SC200 |
| Manufacturer | Kia America, Inc. |
| Component | Engine |
| Report date | December 2, 2020 |
| Owners notified | January 25, 2021 |
| Vehicles affected | 294,756 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
- 2012 Kia Forte
- 2013 Kia Forte
- 2014 Kia Forte
- 2015 Kia Forte
- 2012 Kia Forte Koup
- 2013 Kia Forte Koup
- 2014 Kia Forte Koup
- 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid
- 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid
- 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid
- 2012 Kia Sorento
- 2013 Kia Sorento
- 2014 Kia Soul
- 2015 Kia Soul
- 2012 Kia Sportage
Plus 1 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.
Owner complaints about the engine & cooling
- 2012 Kia Forte engine problems 166
- 2013 Kia Forte engine problems 110
- 2014 Kia Forte engine problems 220
- 2015 Kia Forte engine problems 162
- 2012 Kia Forte Koup engine problems 13
- 2013 Kia Forte Koup engine problems 12
- 2014 Kia Forte Koup engine problems 1
- 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid engine problems 19
- 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid engine problems 73
- 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid engine problems 14
- 2012 Kia Sorento engine problems 475
- 2013 Kia Sorento engine problems 513
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 20V-750 repair free?
Yes. Kia dealers will fix the problem at no cost: 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.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 294,756 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.