Defect
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.
2013 Kia Optima Recall
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Frequently Asked Questions
8 common questions answered
What are the known NHTSA recalls for a 2013 Kia Optima?
The NHTSA has issued 20 recall records affecting the 2013 Kia Optima, covering brakes, fuel system components, engine, air bag systems, and other components. Key components include: Brake (3 recalls for HECU brake-fluid leaks), Fuel Pump (5 recalls for high-pressure fuel pipe issues after engine replacements), Fuel Tank (2 recalls for low-pressure fuel hose deterioration), Engine (3 recalls for bearing wear and potential fire risk), Air Bag (3 recalls for ACU and deployment defects), Axle Shaft (1 recall), Hybrid/Battery systems (2 records related to VPD/BMS), and Forward Collision system software (1 recall). These NHTSA-listed recalls include fixes such as HECU replacement, fuel-pipe or hose replacement, engine inspection/replacement, air bag module replacement, and software or BMS updates; all are performed free under the manufacturer recall program.
How do I check if my 2013 Kia Optima has an open recall?
Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov or bring your vehicle to Nalley Kia and we will check it for free. You can also call Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542 with your VIN for NHTSA recall confirmation; Nalley Kia can verify open recalls and explain required repairs. If you prefer in-person help, schedule service online and our factory-trained technicians will confirm recall status at no charge.
How much does a 2013 Kia Optima recall repair cost?
Manufacturer recall repairs are free of charge to the vehicle owner when performed by an authorized dealer like Nalley Kia. NHTSA-backed recall work — including HECU replacement, fuel-pipe or hose repair, engine inspection/replacement, air bag module replacement, and software updates — is performed at no cost under the recall campaign. If you need help with out-of-pocket repairs unrelated to an open recall, ask about our service financing and pre-approval at service financing to get repairs now and pay later, and check current service specials.
Can I get my 2013 Kia Optima recall fixed at an independent shop or do I need a dealer?
Recall repairs must be completed by an authorized dealership to ensure OEM parts and manufacturer warranty coverage; Nalley Kia is a certified Kia dealer and must perform free recall repairs. Independent shops cannot perform a manufacturer recall repair in a way that registers the remedy with Kia/NHTSA; only an authorized Kia franchise dealer like Nalley Kia can record the recall repair and provide the factory update. To protect your safety, warranty, and resale value, bring your 2013 Kia Optima to Nalley Kia for certified recall service; you can schedule service online now.
How long does a 2013 Kia Optima recall repair take?
Most recall repairs are completed in a few hours to a day, but some engine or replacement repairs can take longer depending on parts availability and the required remedy. Nalley Kia’s factory-trained technicians use OEM diagnostic tools to triage the repair quickly; we will provide an estimated turnaround time when you schedule appointment. If parts are delayed, Nalley Kia will notify you and offer alternatives like loaner vehicles or express scheduling to minimize disruption.
Does an open recall affect my 2013 Kia Optima's trade-in or resale value?
An unresolved recall can reduce buyer confidence and negatively affect trade-in and resale value because many buyers and dealers verify open recalls before purchase. Resolving all NHTSA recalls at a certified dealer like Nalley Kia documents that safety issues have been addressed with OEM parts and factory-trained technicians, protecting vehicle value. When you're ready to sell or trade, start with a free recall check and consider a recorded repair at Nalley Kia; get a trade appraisal at sell your car online to see the difference.
Can I fail a state inspection because of an unresolved 2013 Kia Optima recall?
Open recalls themselves do not always cause a failed state inspection, but safety-related recalls (for example fuel leaks, engine seizure risk, or air bag non-deployment) can result in a failed inspection if the defect affects required safety systems. If a recall involves the braking, fuel, engine, or air bag systems—which NHTSA lists for the 2013 Kia Optima—arrange immediate service at Nalley Kia to avoid safety citations and protect your insurance coverage. To avoid inspection or registration issues, schedule service or contact our service team and ask about any current service specials and service financing options.
2013 Kia Optima Recall Summary
These summaries are based on NHTSA recall records. If your 2013 Kia Optima is affected, recalls are performed free by Nalley Kia’s factory-trained technicians—please schedule service today to address safety-critical recalls and protect your vehicle and family.
Recall Service & Dealership Highlights
Safety Risks You Can't Ignore
The 2013 Kia Optima faces multiple safety-related recalls that can directly affect your risk on the road; these include brake HECU brake-fluid leaks that can short and increase the risk of an engine compartment fire, fuel-pipe and low-pressure fuel hose issues that can cause fuel leaks and fire risk, engine bearing wear that may cause engine seizure, and air bag control unit defects that can disable air bag deployment. Ignoring these recalls can increase the chance of fire, sudden loss of power, or reduced occupant protection in a crash. Nalley Kia’s factory-trained technicians prioritize safety diagnostics and recall remedies; our certified Kia service center in Lithonia, GA inspects the exact components identified by NHTSA and performs the manufacturer-specified repairs using OEM parts at no cost to you. In addition to improving immediate safety, completing recall work protects insurance claims and future inspections—unresolved safety recalls can complicate coverage and lower resale value. If you own a 2013 Kia Optima, contact Nalley Kia right away to schedule service and ask about available service specials and service financing to get the repair completed now and pay later.
Your Certified Recall Experts
Nalley Kia in Lithonia, GA is the authorized Kia franchise dealer serving Lithonia and the greater Atlanta area, including Roswell, Alpharetta, Decatur, and surrounding communities; our factory-trained technicians use OEM diagnostic tools, genuine Kia parts, and manufacturer procedures to perform recall repairs correctly and safely. When the NHTSA identifies a defect, only an authorized Kia dealer can apply the manufacturer’s remedy and record the repair in Kia’s system—this ensures free coverage under the recall and preserves your vehicle’s warranty and resale documentation. Our service center prioritizes recall work, provides clear communication about NHTSA recall numbers and corrective actions, and documents all repairs so your 2013 Kia Optima shows a completed recall history. Nalley Kia emphasizes fast, transparent service, and we support customers with service financing and helpful scheduling options; you can schedule appointment online and review current service specials. Trust Nalley Kia as your local certified Kia dealer for recall repairs near me in Lithonia and the surrounding Atlanta communities.
Next Steps to Protect Your Car
Start by checking your VIN on NHTSA.gov or bring your 2013 Kia Optima to Nalley Kia for a free recall lookup; our service advisors will identify any open campaigns and explain the required remedies. When you arrive, expect a manufacturer-level inspection that targets the specific recall components—brake HECU, fuel pump and hoses, engine assembly, air bag modules, or software updates—and a clear timeline and parts estimate if needed. Typical recall repairs vary: many fixes are completed same-day or within 24 hours, while engine replacements or parts-limited repairs may take longer; Nalley Kia will provide an accurate estimate and offer loaner vehicles or shuttle service when available. Since recall repairs are free, you only need to schedule service, bring your VIN, and leave the rest to our certified technicians who use OEM parts and follow Kia factory procedures. We also offer service financing through our pre-approval process at service financing for non-recall work and will notify you of any applicable service specials to minimize your out-of-pocket expense. Don’t wait—schedule service at Nalley Kia today to protect safety and value.
Protect Your Resale Value
Unresolved recalls on a 2013 Kia Optima can reduce trade-in offers and deter private buyers, since many dealerships and purchasers check NHTSA records before purchase. Having all NHTSA recalls completed at an authorized Kia dealer like Nalley Kia documents that the vehicle has been repaired with genuine OEM parts by factory-trained technicians and can improve buyer confidence and trade-in value. If you plan to sell or trade, resolving recalls removes a common negotiating factor and prevents potential delays in financing or registration. Nalley Kia offers free recall inspections and repairs under the manufacturer program and will provide documentation of completed recall work for your records. For a fast online estimate of trade value, use our trade tool at sell your car online after recall completion to maximize value. Our team serves Lithonia, the greater Atlanta area, and nearby cities—bringing your 2013 Kia Optima to Nalley Kia ensures recalls are handled correctly and your vehicle holds its best possible market value.
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Recall Summary
20 recalls found · All repairs FREE
Brake
FREE3 OPEN RECALLS
Consequence
If the HECU short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the HECU for leaking brake fluid and replace the HECU if necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin October 15, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC197.
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Brake3
FREE3 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
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.
Consequence
If the HECU short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the HECU for leaking brake fluid and replace the HECU if necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin October 15, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC197.
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Fuel Pump5
FREE5 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
Consequence
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action
Kia has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC172.
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Fuel Tank2
FREE2 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Optima vehicles equipped with 2.4L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) or 2.0L GDI Turbo engines. The low pressure fuel hose may deteriorate and crack over time due to heat generated within the engine compartment.
Consequence
If the fuel hose cracks, a fuel leak can occur, increasing the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify Owners, and Dealers will inspect the low pressure fuel hose for damage or leaking, replacing it as necessary. If no damage or leaking is found, a heat-protective tape will be installed. Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began June 12, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC187.
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Engine3
FREE3 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
Kia Motor Company (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Optima, 2012-2014 Sorento and 2011-2013 Sportage vehicles. Machining errors during the engine manufacturing process may cause premature bearing wear within the engine.
Consequence
Bearing wear may result in the engine seizing, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine assembly, and replace the engine if necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 25, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC147.
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Air Bag3
FREE3 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Kia Forte, Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Kia Optima and 2011-2012 Kia Optima Hybrid and Sedona vehicles. In the event of a crash, the air bag control unit (ACU) may short circuit, preventing the frontal air bags and seat belt pretensioners from deploying.
Consequence
If the frontal air bags and seat belt pretensioners are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a vehicle crash that necessitates deployment of these safety systems.
Corrective Action
The remedy for this recall is still under development. The recall is planned to begin on July 27, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC165.
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Axle Shaft1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016 Kia Optima vehicles manufactured November 13, 2015, to April 23, 2016 and equipped with a 2.4l engine. The right front axle driveshaft may crack and fail.
Consequence
If the driveshaft cracks and separates from the vehicle, it will not be able to move forward. Additionally, if the parking brake is not applied upon exiting the vehicle, the vehicle may roll. Either scenario can increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front axle driveshaft, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin November 29, 2016. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC139.
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Hybrid Propulsion System1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Optima hybrid vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with a Voltage Protection Device (VPD), designed to protect the high voltage battery module, that may activate inadvertently.
Consequence
If the VPD activates while the vehicle is being operated in Electric Vehicle (EV) mode, there may be a loss of power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will remove the VPD switch and install two newly designed Battery Management Systems (BMS) that contain Overvoltage Protection Devices (OPDs), free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 3, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC162.
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Forward Collision Avoidance System1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2019 Optima vehicles equipped with Gamma 1.6L Turbo-GDI or Theta II 2.0L Turbo-GDI engines. A software error in the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) system may cause the braking assist function to not engage when a stationary vehicle is detected.
Consequence
Improper intervention of the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist can increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will update the FCA software, free of charge. The recall began August 27, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC179.
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Battery Management Systems1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Optima hybrid vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with a Voltage Protection Device (VPD), designed to protect the high voltage battery module, that may activate inadvertently.
Consequence
If the VPD activates while the vehicle is being operated in Electric Vehicle (EV) mode, there may be a loss of power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will remove the VPD switch and install two newly designed Battery Management Systems (BMS) that contain Overvoltage Protection Devices (OPDs), free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 3, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC162.
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Free recall check · No appointment needed