NHTSA Complaint #11709503 — 2013 KIA OPTIMA

ENGINE issue reported to NHTSA

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Complaint Details

ODI Number	11709503
Vehicle	2013 KIA OPTIMA
Component	ENGINE
Date of Incident	December 31, 2025
Date Filed	January 7, 2026
Mileage	N/A miles
Crash	No
Fire	No
Injuries	0
Deaths	0
Vehicle Towed	No
State	CA

Consumer Description

My 2013 Kia Optima SXL experienced engine knock and shutdown after completion of recall SC147 (KSDS software update). The recall did not repair the known Theta II rod bearing defect and now the engine is failing as detected by the software. Kia corporate and Kia of Merced (Merced, CA) are refusing repair, citing auction purchase and PI1803, despite the engine being covered under the Theta II engine warranty extension. The vehicle is unsafe to operate and shuts down unexpectedly.

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Recent Complaints for the 2013 KIA OPTIMA

#11719465 — SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC — February 20, 2026 — The contact owned a 2013 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving the vehicle, the contact became aware of b...

#11716694 — SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC — February 9, 2026 — The contact owned a 2013 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while his niece was driving the vehicle at 65 MPH, a str...

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