The problem
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Rio, 2016-2018 Optima, 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. The trunk latch base may crack, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
The risk
A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
The fix
Dealers will replace the trunk latch base subassembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC278.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 23V-594 (23V594000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | SC278 |
| Manufacturer | Kia America, Inc. |
| Component | Latches/locks/linkages › Trunk lid › Latch |
| Report date | August 24, 2023 |
| Owners notified | October 19, 2023 |
| Vehicles affected | 319,436 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the locks & latches
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 23V-594 repair free?
Yes. Kia dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the trunk latch base subassembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC278.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 319,436 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.