NHTSA Complaint #11618310 — 2016 KIA OPTIMA

The component that failed in my 2016 Kia Optima is the engine, specifically due to excessive oil consumption. After each oil change, my oil levels drop significantly within 1,000 miles. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. This issue poses a safety risk to me and others because if the oil levels fall too low, the engine could seize or fail while driving, potentially leading to a dangerous situation. A sudden engine failure, especially at highway speeds, could result in a loss of control and increase the risk of an accident. The problem has been confirmed by both a Kia dealership and an independent automotive repair shop. The dealership performed an oil consumption test, which revealed that my car is consuming 1.3 quarts of oil every 1,000 miles. An independent shop also acknowledged that this make and model are known for high oil consumption. The vehicle has been inspected by the Kia dealership during my 120,000-mile service. However, despite confirming the issue, Kia has not offered a resolution because my vehicle is no longer under warranty. The vehicle has not been inspected by police or insurance representatives. No warning lights, messages, or dashboard indicators alerted me to the issue. The only symptom was the rapid drop in oil levels, which I first noticed in October 2023 following a routine oil change.