NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Fuel/propulsion System complaints
21 reportsClear category filterMileage unknown · Jul 6, 2026
EngineFuel/propulsion System
After fueling, vehicle idled fine with no warning lights. Once pulling onto the highway and making highway speeds, the vehicle suddenly lost acceleration, and was stranded in the highway. We required the assistance of law enforcement to direct traffic. It was 10pm and the temperatures were 35 degree below zero with the windchill…
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After fueling, vehicle idled fine with no warning lights. Once pulling onto the highway and making highway speeds, the vehicle suddenly lost acceleration, and was stranded in the highway. We required the assistance of law enforcement to direct traffic. It was 10pm and the temperatures were 35 degree below zero with the windchill. The vehicle was towed to a Kia dealership, where they diagnosed loss of compression in the pistons. The dealership stated the engine had been burning/consuming oil and that the burnt valve caused the loss of compression and sudden breakdown. This vehicle uses the 2.4L Theta II GDI engine, which has a long history of engine failures, oil consumption complaints, stalling, and class-action litigation involving sudden engine failure and loss of power. Kia denied coverage by claiming only rod-bearing failures qualify for warranty extension, even though excessive oil consumption and compression loss appear closely related to the same broader engine defect pattern. Other owners have also reported 2017 Sportage excessive oil consumption leading to compression loss and engine failure. I believe this is a serious safety defect because the engine can fail suddenly while driving at highway speed, drivers may have little warning before loss of power, oil consumption may not trigger adequate warning before catastrophic failure. This creates crash risk, roadside hazard exposure, and potential fire risk.
NHTSA ODI #11748466
Mileage unknown · May 14, 2026
EngineFuel/propulsion SystemFire
My vehicle engine caught fire after getting gas. It started smoking then went up in flames.
NHTSA ODI #11737888
Mileage unknown · May 7, 2026
EngineFuel/propulsion System
My safety is put at risk. My car has stalled two different times on the highway. I was able to get it off the road after restarting the vehicle and coasting out. The engine was worked out by Kia of Mission Viejo. They stated it was not due to Rod bearing, although I was told on a separate occasion that there was metal in my oil …
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My safety is put at risk. My car has stalled two different times on the highway. I was able to get it off the road after restarting the vehicle and coasting out. The engine was worked out by Kia of Mission Viejo. They stated it was not due to Rod bearing, although I was told on a separate occasion that there was metal in my oil in the same scenario then when they submitted the video to Kia, they said they only saw the burnt valve my check engine light has went on a total of three times I’ve had the same exact work done three additional times as well as the knock sensor having to be replaced because it went off and burned out due to what happened on the highway. My car is part of the theta engine issue with Kia
NHTSA ODI #11736363
Mileage unknown · Apr 2, 2026
EngineFuel/propulsion System
Car has 84000 miles on it for last 15-20 thousand miles there is a smell of gas in the oil. I took to dealership they charged me to replace a catalytic converter. Not even a year later the cars engine blew up. Now needs a whole new motor there is loud knocking and car will not accelerate.
NHTSA ODI #11728780
Mileage unknown · Feb 25, 2026
EngineFuel/propulsion System
The Catalytic Converter in the Kia. We were driving to Texas to take my kids out for mini vacation and it’s cut off right in the middle of the highway. My car was running just fine everything was fix properly. Can you check in the Catalytic Converter and see if it safely issue.
NHTSA ODI #11720579
Mileage unknown · Feb 23, 2025
EngineFuel/propulsion SystemPower Train
I own a 2017 Kia Sportage, and I recently experienced a malfunction indicator engine light turning on. Upon diagnosis by Kia Russ Darrow at Odana Rd Madison, WI , the vehicle displayed DTC P001000 – ‘A (Intake)’ Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1). They have noticed oil leakage around the E-CVVT motor plug area. It point…
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I own a 2017 Kia Sportage, and I recently experienced a malfunction indicator engine light turning on. Upon diagnosis by Kia Russ Darrow at Odana Rd Madison, WI , the vehicle displayed DTC P001000 – ‘A (Intake)’ Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1). They have noticed oil leakage around the E-CVVT motor plug area. It pointed to camshaft position sensor malfunction and Kia service say what the vehicle needs is a CVVT cover and seals/gaskets relating to the variable valve timing on the camshaft as it’s throwing the camshaft sensor circuit “high” voltage Kia has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) SA305, which acknowledges a similar problem in earlier production models of the same vehicle (built from December 10, 2015 – September 12, 2016). However, my vehicle was manufactured in January 2017, and Kia has not yet included it in the affected range. Despite this, I am experiencing the exact same issue outlined in the TSB. This failure poses a potential safety risk because it can affect engine performance and reliability. If left unaddressed, it could lead to unexpected engine stalling, loss of power while driving, or further engine damage, creating a hazardous situation. I have not yet received confirmation from Kia regarding an official recall or warranty extension for my vehicle, but the symptoms are identical to those covered under SA305. The issue has been reproduced and confirmed by a mechanic, and I am currently in the process of contacting Kia for further inspection and assistance. There were no prior warning messages, aside from the Check Engine Light (MIL) illuminating when the problem first occurred. This complaint is being submitted to request an investigation into whether this defect extends beyond the current TSB range and to determine if additional 2017 Sportage models should be included in a service action or recall to prevent safety risks. The affected component is available for inspection upon request.
NHTSA ODI #11644429
Mileage unknown · Feb 2, 2025
Electrical SystemEngineFuel/propulsion System
Component/System Failure: Multiple issues have occurred with the vehicle, starting with the windows not functioning shortly after purchase. The most severe issue occurred when the engine failed completely, causing it to shut down in the middle of a busy intersection during rush hour. This left the car non-functional and posed si…
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Component/System Failure: Multiple issues have occurred with the vehicle, starting with the windows not functioning shortly after purchase. The most severe issue occurred when the engine failed completely, causing it to shut down in the middle of a busy intersection during rush hour. This left the car non-functional and posed significant safety risks. In addition, the fuel system consistently becomes contaminated, despite following proper fuel maintenance practices like using high-quality fuel and regularly using a system cleaner. Is the Component Available for Inspection Upon Request? It's important to confirm whether the damaged components (like the engine or fuel system parts) are available for inspection by a dealer, an independent service center, or the manufacturer. If you haven't already, request documentation or access to the faulty components so that experts can inspect them and provide insight into what went wrong. Safety Risk: The engine failure in the middle of a busy intersection during rush hour was a major safety risk, not just to you but to other drivers as well. An unexpected engine failure at such a critical time could have led to accidents, making it clear that there’s a serious safety concern that needs addressing immediately. Even if the fuel system issue isn’t as immediately dangerous, it still affects the vehicle’s performance and longevity. Problem Reproduced or Confirmed by Dealer or Service Center? Has a dealer or an independent service center been able to reproduce or confirm these problems? If not, it may help to schedule an appointment for a detailed inspection. If the dealer or service center has acknowledged the issues, ensure you have written confirmation or a detailed report. Inspection by Manufacturer, Police, or Insurance? Kia dealership finally took it in broke down the engine and wasn't fully clear what is causing the problem, my extended warranty sent a inspection but is taking way more time then what should be allowed
NHTSA ODI #11640197
Mileage unknown · Feb 19, 2024
EngineFuel/propulsion SystemPower Train
first owner 2017 Kia Sportage SX (NOTE SX specifically) AWD 2.0L Turbo Gas Direct Injection (4-cyl engine) (no recalls found) - EXCESSIVE Oil Consumption since early/mid 2023 and continues still today, [XXX]. We lose over 1 quart of oil every 1,000 miles, did not discover this until an oil change in early 2023 how low our oil wa…
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first owner 2017 Kia Sportage SX (NOTE SX specifically) AWD 2.0L Turbo Gas Direct Injection (4-cyl engine) (no recalls found) - EXCESSIVE Oil Consumption since early/mid 2023 and continues still today, [XXX]. We lose over 1 quart of oil every 1,000 miles, did not discover this until an oil change in early 2023 how low our oil was. No leaks then, no leaks now, oil maintenance performed, we have meticulous records and have been to the #1 Cochran Robinson Township Kia dealership where they have perform Kias required Oil Consumption Test that we've paid for. 1st set of test failed each time, dealership performed deep clean, and since there was only 3/4 quart loss, Kia had no further responsibilities. too busy with our small business over the holidays, started Oil Consumption test, again [XXX]. Every single time we hit 1,000 miles (monthly) we are down over 1+ quarts of oil, with no leaks anywhere. Added 40 ounces of oil (I have photos) a few days before we decided to get the Oil Consumption test again. PLS NOTE: There are quite a few MODELS and ENGINES listed in recalls or perhaps lawsuits for excessive oil consumption, our SX model 2.0L Turbo Gas Direct Injection (4 cyl) specifically is not. Over the past 7 months, we have lost over 8 quarts of oil, and have had 2 maintenance oil changes in between, part of normal maintenance. Looking online there are thousands of posts regarding Kia Excessive Oil Consumption, Kia states losing 1 quart every 1,000 miles is acceptable? How can this not cause a hazard to us drivers, engine could blow due to oil going somewhere or into the environment, etc? IF you require all of the service records for the oil changes, etc. I have them all. Thank You Sincerely [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) The contact stated the vehicle is continuing to show Excessive Oil Consumption while required to go through this KIA test again, (first in 2023, now this 2nd set of the same tests). Further stating that numerous owners having
NHTSA ODI #11572722
Mileage unknown · Nov 20, 2023
Electrical SystemEngineFuel/propulsion System
Driving as usual and all of a sudden no acceleration. No warning lights at all. Started smoking. Towed to Flynn’s. They said there is a known oil consumption issue and the motor locked up. Communicated with KIA and they say to have it looked at - at a cost. Said it’s not under warranty. But is a likely know issue!
NHTSA ODI #11556009
Mileage unknown · Aug 29, 2023
Fuel/propulsion System
My check engine light came on several monthsago. I replaced the gas cap three times! This did not seem to remedy the problem. The check engine light would come on shortly thereafter. I've been parking my car away from buildings and home and I have noticed that the grassy area where I park has died on the left hand side (the driv…
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My check engine light came on several monthsago. I replaced the gas cap three times! This did not seem to remedy the problem. The check engine light would come on shortly thereafter. I've been parking my car away from buildings and home and I have noticed that the grassy area where I park has died on the left hand side (the driver side) where I park. There must be a leak. I can hear gurgling from the gas tank! There is a a ping sound shortly after I shut off the vehicle. I'm very worried that my car is going to catch fire! You can hear gurgling (soon after engine is running) I have had the oil changed and asked if they could look at the undercarriage to see if there was anything unusual going on they did not see anything. Also, the throat of the fuel tank keeps getting rusty. The outter entrance always gets grimy. I guess water and or rain must be leaking down into the entrance. I have never owned a car where I had to continuously maintain the gas fuel tank entrance area! In summary, there are three problems. An emissions problem related to the fuel tank gurgglng and leaking fuel. Second, the throat of the fuel tank keeps rusting. Three, the entrance of the fuel tank. it's always dirty, and grimy as if something has leaked inside! it needs constant attention. I will be taking my car in to do recall replacement repairs soon. I will ask them to check the fuel emissions problem as well at Crain Kia in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
NHTSA ODI #11541358
Official recalls
4Sep 19, 2022
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Sorento, 2021-2022 Sorento Hybrid (HEV), 2022-2023 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), and 2017-2022 Sportage vehicles equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Kia dealership. Debris and moisture accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will inspect the vehicle, and, as necessary, replace the fuse and/or tow hitch harness module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 11, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC249.
Mar 4, 2021
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Sportage and Cadenza vehicles. The electrical circuit in the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may short-circuit, which can cause a fire in the engine compartment.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: An engine compartment fire can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace certain fuses in the electrical junction box. Vehicles equipped with an electronic parking brake (EPB) will also receive a HECU software update. Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on April 30, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC206.
Dec 19, 2018
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Kia has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC172.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Engine
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Kia has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC172.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Kia has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC172.
Nov 30, 2016
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Sorento vehicles manufactured October 27, 2014, to August 25, 2016, and 2017 Sportage vehicles manufactured December 10, 2015, to August 26, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness that, due to a malfunction of the tow hitch module, may result in the trailer brake lights being constantly illuminated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the trailer brake lights stay illuminated while being used, other drivers may be confused, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the trailer tow hitch harness, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC142.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Trailer Hitches
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Sorento vehicles manufactured October 27, 2014, to August 25, 2016, and 2017 Sportage vehicles manufactured December 10, 2015, to August 26, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness that, due to a malfunction of the tow hitch module, may result in the trailer brake lights being constantly illuminated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence: If the trailer brake lights stay illuminated while being used, other drivers may be confused, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the trailer tow hitch harness, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC142.
Electrical System
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Sorento vehicles manufactured October 27, 2014, to August 25, 2016, and 2017 Sportage vehicles manufactured December 10, 2015, to August 26, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness that, due to a malfunction of the tow hitch module, may result in the trailer brake lights being constantly illuminated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence: If the trailer brake lights stay illuminated while being used, other drivers may be confused, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the trailer tow hitch harness, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC142.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
2AQ23002 · Hyundai And Kia Abs Module Fires
Opened Nov 17, 2023 · No close date supplied
Status: open (inferred from source dates) · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received eight Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) and eight Kia America, Inc. (Kia) Part 573 Recall Reports between 2016 and 2023. The combined 16 safety recalls all involve the antilock braking system (ABS) modules or Hydraulic Electronic Control Units (HECU) manufactured by the equipment supplier Mando. The Part 573 Recall Reports contain varying defect descriptions and differing remedy descriptions for the same or similar equipment supplied by Mando. Safety recalls included in this Audit Query (AQ) review include: Hyundai recalls 20V-520, 20V-543, 21V-161, 21V-160, 21V-303, 22V-056, 22V-810, and 23V-651. Kia recalls 16V-815, 20V-518, 20V-519, 21V-137, 21V-331, 22V-051, 22V-800, and 23V-652 The purpose of this AQ is to evaluate the timeliness and scoping of Hyundai and Kia’s defect decision making and adherence with reporting requirements; and understand the varying defect descriptions and remedies between these recalls.
DP22003 · Loss Of Motive Power
Opened Sep 12, 2022 · Closed Dec 12, 2023
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Engine
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain Hyundai Motor America, Inc. and Kia America, Inc. vehicles spanning Model Years (MY) 2005-2021. The Petitioners cited examples of complaints indicating that the subject vehicles were experiencing rapid loss of engine oil due to oil drain plug back outs, resulting in loss of motive power and/or catastrophic engine damage. Additional complaints were provided which alleged that the oil drain pans lack sufficient structural integrity and are susceptible to cracking. The petition itself can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI number 11481745. On September 12, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Defect Petition (DP22-003) to evaluate the Petitioners’ request. The Petitioners have provided additional complaints within four supplemental letters dated January 31, 2023, March 21, 2023, May 23, 2023, and August 4, 2023. ODI’s evaluation included the review and analysis of the complaints and supporting information submitted by the Petitioners, as well as additional complaints submitted directly to NHTSA which referenced either the oil drain plug or a crack in the oil pan. After reviewing the available data, ODI has not identified evidence that would support opening a defect investigation into the oil drain pan assemblies of the subject vehicles. Based on a review of the available information, a loss of motive power resulting from an oil drain plug back out has not occurred between the initial sale of a vehicle and the completion of its first oil change. If during an oil change service, a technician fails to remove the existing drain plug gasket before installing a new gasket, it is likely that a proper seal between the drain plug and the oil pan will not be made. An improper seal between the drain plug and oil pan could lead to the backing out on the drain plug, resulting in the sudden loss of oil while driving. Additionally, the provided examples of oil pan cracks were localized to the immediate vicinity of the oil drain plug and/or appeared to be the result of direct-contact with a tool during servicing. There is no information to support that a vehicle-based defect exists relating to the oil pan assembly, and instead the documented incidents are related to the failure to follow the proper maintenance procedures during oil change service. In October 2023, Hyundai published a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that provided detailed instructions for oil change service on its gasoline powered vehicles, specifically highlighting the need to remove and replace the existing drain plug gasket prior to reinstalling the drain plug. After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, the information already in NHTSA's possession, and the potential risks to motor vehicle safety implicated by the petitioners' allegations, NHTSA does not believe that a formal investigation is warranted. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA’s reasons for denial of the petition will be published. The reference numbers for the complaints to NHTSA cited by the petitioner can be found in the petition submission documents in the public file for DP22-003. To review those complaints and the additional complaints ODI added to its evaluation which are cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.