NHTSA Complaint #11584168 — 2015 KIA OPTIMA

I received a safety recall notice in November 2023 stating that there is defect with Hydraulic Electrical Control Unit (HECU) in my car that can result in an engine compartment fire either while I am driving my car or when it is parked. As of April 2024, I am still waiting to be notified that the part to fix this issue is available. This delay is putting my life and my children's lives at risk every time we drive in our only car, as well as the drivers around me if my car catches on fire when I am near them. In addition, this issue puts our home, as well as our neighbors' homes, at risk of catching on fire since I am not able to park outdoors away from other cars and structures as was recommended. In the past few days, I have felt a difference in my car's performance and today 04/19/24, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) warning light turned on. According to the notice I received, I am supposed to stop driving my car and have it taken to a dealership immediately if this happens. However, I called my local dealership, and the earliest appointment available is on 05/13/24. I have no other car and cannot afford to drive a rental car for almost 30 days. I have been placed into a horrible situation because of this major issue. I have to risk my safety every time I am in car and even when it is simply parked because of this. This is completely unacceptable, and Kia should be held responsible immediately as I have no other means to remedy this problem.