NHTSA Complaint #11714650 — 2016 KIA OPTIMA

My 2016 Kia Optima experienced a sudden catastrophic engine failure in July 2025. The failure is consistent with widely reported Theta II engine rod bearing defects that cause engine seizure and stalling. The vehicle did not receive the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) update prior to my ownership, and I was never notified of this critical safety-related update. The engine failure occurred without warning and could have resulted in loss of power while driving, creating a serious safety risk. This vehicle model year has a documented history of engine defects and class action settlements related to premature engine failure. I believe this represents an ongoing safety defect. I am requesting that NHTSA review this failure as part of its investigation into Kia Optima engine defects.