NHTSA Complaint #11472489 — 2016 KIA SORENTO

7/3/22, 71,500 miles accrued on vehicle. While operating the vehicle, on an uphill grade after 5.7 miles of driving, sudden and abrupt knocking noise occurred. Knocking was intensified during acceleration. At this time, dramatic loss of power occurred. Attempted to "coast" downhill for the remainder of the trip. After another 2.2 miles, a very loud "bang" noise occurred, the driver in fear part felle from the vehicle. Knocking noise intensified, and the vehicle then stopped responding. Displayed oil pressure, check engine and check battery lights. Violent shaking and vibrating occurred. Driver was able to coast the vehicle off the roadway to the right shoulder for safety so as to not become a traffic hazard. Smoke was visible and heat was felt from the engine bay of the vehicle. Driver of the vehicle was in fear of fire occurring imminently. Vehicle was shut off for safety. After smoke dissipated and engine cooled, a restart was attempted but failed. Vehicle would not respond. Nothing was visible from the top of the engine bay. Vehicle was moved to a local repair shop adjacent to the location where it was stopped. On inspection, the engine block cracked adjacent to the connecting rod producing knocking noise and releasing all oil from the engine block. The local automotive shop confirmed the engine/powertrain failure similar to the previous recall: RQ17-003 NHTSA Recall No. 17V-224 on "GDI" engines. Kia corporate was contacted. Kia has not inspected the vehicle but was informed. Kia replied they would NOT replace or reimburse due to recall only being applied for 2.0 and 2.4 liter engines. This vehicle was fitted with a 3.3 liter "GDI" engine produced in the same facility as reported in RQ17-003 NHTSA Recall No. 17V-224. Local mechanics report the engine may be replaced by the dealer with enough complaining, however, the dealer states "no recalls for this vehicle" and will not take action.