NHTSA Complaint #11441496 — 2016 KIA SOUL

Prior to completing the Kia Product Improvement Campaign to perform a software upgrade to add a Knock Sensor Detections System (KSDS) on my 2016 Kia Soul+, my engine completely failed. After towing the vehicle to the dealership, I was informed that my piston rod had catastrophic failure and I needed to purchase a new engine ($4,000). According to the product improvement campaign, the vehicle has the potential of suffering damage of the exact failure I had. Kia claims that because my engine failed prior to getting the software upgrade, that I am required to pay for a new engine. There was no deadline to complete the software upgrade, nor was I notified in the letter that if my engine failed prior to, I would be held liable. Kia has a known product defect (MFG Recall SC176; NHTSA Recall 19V-120), but my VIN isn't affected. However, my engine failed in the exact same manner as described in the recall. My vehicle only has 52,000 miles on it and out of factory warranty by 3.5 months when this occurred.