Recall Radar

2013–2015 Kia Optima, Sorento recall: Service brakes, hydraulic: antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip, control unit/module

NHTSA campaign 20V-519 · August 27, 2020 · Kia America, Inc. Park outside

Safety flagThe manufacturer advises parking outside until the repair is done. Check your VIN and follow the manufacturer’s notice.
Check your own car by VIN. A recall applies only to certain vehicles, built in certain periods. NHTSA’s recall lookup checks your 17-character VIN against open recalls and is free.

Recall at a glance

Campaign number
20V519000
Reported
August 27, 2020
Manufacturer
Kia America, Inc.
Part
Service brakes, hydraulic: antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip, control unit/module
Vehicles affected
About 440,370

What is wrong

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.

Safety risk

If the HECU short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.

The fix

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the HECU for leaking brake fluid and replace the HECU if necessary, free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside and away from other vehicles and structures until the recall repair is completed. The recall began October 20, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC197.

Affected models

Model years listed by NHTSA for this campaign. Only vehicles within the build range in the notice are affected.

Notes from the notice

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Frequently asked questions

Which vehicles are affected by this recall?

Kia Optima (2013, 2014, 2015); Kia Sorento (2014, 2015). Check your VIN to confirm.

What is the safety risk?

If the HECU short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.

What is the fix?

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the HECU for leaking brake fluid and replace the HECU if necessary, free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside and away from other vehicles and structures until the recall repair is completed. The recall began October 20, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC197.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall data for passenger vehicles, recalls since 2013, shown as published. This site is independent and not affiliated with NHTSA or any manufacturer. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and follow your manufacturer’s notice. Terms and disclaimer.