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.
2018 Kia Optima Recall
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Frequently Asked Questions
8 common questions answered
What are the known NHTSA recalls for a 2018 Kia Optima?
The NHTSA has issued 20 recalls affecting the 2018 Kia Optima covering brakes, fuel system components, engine issues, air bags, axle shafts, hybrid battery systems, and forward collision software. These recalls include brake HECU leaks that can cause shorts and fires, high-pressure fuel pipe issues that can leak, low-pressure fuel hose deterioration, engine bearing wear that can lead to seizure, and air bag control unit faults that could prevent deployment. All manufacturer recall repairs are free and handled through certified dealers like Nalley Kia; if you want to confirm your vehicle's status, we recommend you schedule service with us for a free VIN check.
How do I check if my 2018 Kia Optima has an open recall?
Check your VIN on NHTSA.gov or bring your vehicle to Nalley Kia for a free dealer VIN check and confirmation. You can also call Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542 for recall details, but our service team will verify and advise next steps and help you schedule service. We offer service financing so you can get prioritized support now and pay later, even when scheduling recall work.
How much does a 2018 Kia Optima recall repair cost?
Recall repairs for the 2018 Kia Optima are performed free of charge under the manufacturer's recall program. Because these are NHTSA-identified manufacturer recalls, authorized Kia dealers such as Nalley Kia make the necessary repairs at no cost to the owner using OEM parts and manufacturer procedures. If additional non-recall repairs are requested, ask the service advisor about available offers and our service specials and financing options.
Can I get my 2018 Kia Optima recall fixed at an independent shop or do I need a dealer?
Manufacturer recall repairs must be completed by an authorized Kia dealer to ensure OEM parts, factory procedures, and warranty compliance; we strongly recommend a certified dealer like Nalley Kia. Independent shops may be able to perform some repairs, but recall compliance, documentation, and free manufacturer parts are handled only through franchised dealers. To protect safety, warranty, and resale value, bring your 2018 Kia Optima to your local certified Kia dealer for verified, no-cost recall repairs — schedule appointment today.
How long does a 2018 Kia Optima recall repair take?
Most recall repairs for the 2018 Kia Optima take between one hour and one day, depending on parts availability and the specific recall remedy. Some engine or replacement repairs may require longer turnaround if an engine swap or special part is needed, but Nalley Kia provides clear time estimates when you schedule service. If parts are delayed we will notify you, and ask about our express bays, loaner options, or appointment flexibility to minimize downtime.
Does an open recall affect my 2018 Kia Optima's trade-in or resale value?
An unresolved recall can negatively affect trade-in value and resale because many buyers and dealers check NHTSA records; completing recall repairs protects your vehicle's market value. Nalley Kia documents completed manufacturer recall repairs on your vehicle record — bring proof of recall completion when you evaluate trade-in value or list your vehicle for sale. To protect value, resolve any open items before you sell or trade; you can begin that process and get a market appraisal at our sell-your-car-online page or by scheduling service.
Can I fail a state inspection because of an unresolved 2018 Kia Optima recall?
Generally, open safety recalls do not automatically cause a failed state inspection, but certain defects (like brakes, engine seizure risk, or air bag non-deployment) can lead to inspection failures or create safety concerns that inspectors will flag. Ignoring safety recalls may also affect insurance claims or liability if an accident is related to a known defect; getting free manufacturer recall work at Nalley Kia reduces that risk. If you have inspection concerns, bring your 2018 Kia Optima to Nalley Kia and we will inspect for recall items and advise whether any recall fixes are required prior to inspection — you can schedule service online.
2018 Kia Optima Recall Summary
There are 20 NHTSA-recorded recalls affecting the 2018 Kia Optima. Nalley Kia in Lithonia, GA performs all manufacturer recall repairs free of charge; to protect safety and value, schedule service with our certified team today. Recall information is sourced from NHTSA records and Kia manufacturer notices.
Recall Service & Dealership Highlights
Safety Risks You Can't Ignore
The safety of you and your passengers should be the immediate priority when a manufacturer recall affects the 2018 Kia Optima. Several NHTSA-logged recalls for this model touch critical systems: brake HECU leaks that can short and cause engine compartment fires, high-pressure fuel pipe or low-pressure fuel hose failures that can lead to fuel leaks and increased fire risk, and engine bearing wear that can cause an engine to seize while driving. Air bag control unit faults have also been reported that could prevent air bag or seat belt pretensioner deployment. Nalley Kia's factory-trained technicians use OEM parts and Kia-approved diagnostic equipment to assess these specific risks and perform the required free repairs under Kia's recall programs. Leaving a recall unaddressed exposes you to safety hazards, potential higher insurance complications, and avoidable liability. We encourage Lithonia drivers and nearby communities to prioritize recall repairs at our certified Kia service center to restore full safety compliance and peace of mind.
Your Certified Recall Experts
Nalley Kia is your local certified Kia dealer serving Lithonia, GA and surrounding communities including Decatur, Conyers, Stonecrest, and the greater Atlanta area — we are positioned to handle recall repairs for the 2018 Kia Optima efficiently and correctly. Our technicians are factory-trained and have direct Kia training, proprietary diagnostic tools, and access to genuine OEM parts required for recall remedies. Manufacturer recalls are performed free of charge and documented through the factory; that documentation helps protect warranties and resale value. When you bring a 2018 Kia Optima to Nalley Kia, our advisors verify NHTSA records, confirm parts, and provide a clear timeline. We also publish current service specials and offer service financing so you can get help now and pay later for any non-recall needs. Count on Nalley Kia for accurate recall completion and professional customer service close to you.
Next Steps & VIN Check
If you suspect your 2018 Kia Optima has an open recall, start by checking your VIN on NHTSA.gov or bring the vehicle to Nalley Kia for a free dealer lookup — the NHTSA records show 20 recalls that may affect this model. When you arrive, our team will confirm open campaigns, explain the consumer-friendly fixes, and give a transparent time estimate. Typical remedies range from simple software updates and hose or pipe replacements to larger engine or component replacements; many jobs are same-day or next-day depending on parts. Even if you’re unsure, please schedule service so we can verify and begin any necessary free recall repairs. While recall repairs are free, Nalley Kia also offers practical service financing for any non-recall maintenance you choose to address during your visit, and we will walk you through loaner or shuttle options to make the process convenient.
Protect Your Resale Value
Unresolved recalls on a 2018 Kia Optima can reduce trade-in and resale value because many buyers, dealers, and inspection services check NHTSA recall status before purchase. Completing manufacturer recall repairs at a certified dealer such as Nalley Kia protects the vehicle’s marketability and ensures all work is recorded with the manufacturer, which improves buyer confidence and may prevent price reductions during negotiations. If you plan to trade or sell soon, we recommend resolving open items before listing your vehicle. Nalley Kia documents recall completion and helps you demonstrate that safety work was performed by factory-trained technicians with OEM parts. For an immediate valuation and to learn how completed recalls affect your offer, visit our sell-your-car-online page and consider scheduling a free recall check to remove barriers to full 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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Free recall check · No appointment needed
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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Free recall check · No appointment needed
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