NHTSA Complaint #11654361 — 2017 KIA SPORTAGE

1. What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The engine failed while driving ([XXX])—specifically, the engine seized and became inoperable while driving on the interstate. Yes, the engine is still available for inspection upon request. (Currently at the dealership - due to overheating while driving (after engine had been replaced on 3/26/2025) 2. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? On [XXX], the engine failure occurred while the vehicle was in motion, causing a sudden loss of power and steering assist. This placed me and other drivers at serious risk, especially since it happened on the interstate and I was unable to maneuver or accelerate safely. On [XXX], the engine overheated in severe, bumper to bumper traffic. The owner’s safety was put at risk due to the high volume of traffic and little options to pull over. 3. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes, the engine failure has been confirmed by both an independent mechanic and a Kia dealership. They diagnosed the engine as seized and non-repairable without a full engine replacement. Engine was replaced by Kia on March 26-28, 2025 and returned to the owner on March 28,2025. At the dealership's recommendation the owner replaced all the hoses and belts. Owner was assured all fluids had been refilled and engine repair was complete. Engine overheated while driving in Atlanta on [XXX]. Vehicle was towed back to the dealership due to the overheating and the noises coming from the engine compartment while running. 4. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? So far, the engine has been inspected by the Kia dealership's service department and the engine was replaced on March 26-28,2025 To my knowledge, the manufacturer has not inspected the vehicle. All inspections were performed by th INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5