NHTSA Complaint #11710781 — 2013 KIA OPTIMA

The contact owns a 2013 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal and stalled. The contact was able to coast to the side of the road. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. The contact was informed that the engine had seized and to tow the vehicle to the dealer for assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, where it was confirmed that the engine had failed. The contact was informed that since the vehicle had a branded title, it could not be repaired. The vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired. The contact stated that back in October 2024, the vehicle had been in a hit-and-run accident. The insurance company had declared the vehicle a total loss. The contact kept the vehicle and registered it with the rebuilt title. The contact stated that the engine on the vehicle was the original engine. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact stated that Kia Customer Care called and advised the contact that the manufacturer declined the request for the repairs. The failure mileage was approximately 136,000.