NHTSA Complaint #11689362 — 2013 KIA OPTIMA

On Sunday, September 21st, 2025, my 2013 Kia Optima EX suffered sudden catastrophic engine failure while driving on the highway. The check engine light was flashing, the car misfired badly, lost complete power, and became unsafe to operate. The vehicle was then towed to Wagner Kia of Shrewsbury, MA. On Monday, September 22nd, Kia diagnosed the engine with holes in the intake valves (Cylinder 3) and multiple misfire codes (P2191, P0272, P0301, P0304, P0172, P0303). The dealership documented that major engine repairs would be required, including two intake valves, two exhaust valves, valve cover gaskets, hraf bolts, two ignition coils, and a valve job. This sudden engine failure created an immediate safety risk of stalling or losing power while in motion, which could have led to an accident. Despite Kia’s history of Theta II engine recalls and settlements, my VIN is not included, leaving this major engine defect unaddressed. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate and consider expanding Kia’s existing engine recalls to cover this engine failure, as it represents a serious safety issue consistent with Kia’s documented engine problems.