Complaints & Recalls
Official Safety Recalls - Important!
3 RecallsThese are official manufacturer recalls ordered by NHTSA for safety defects. If you own this vehicle, contact your dealer immediately for free repairs.
Kia America, Inc.
Safety Issue:
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2022 Niro and 2018-2022 Niro Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. Fluid may leak into the printed circuit board inside the hydraulic clutch actuator, which can result in an engine compartment fire.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
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.nhtsa.gov.
Mfg Campaign: SC276
Recall Date: Jul 31, 2023
Consumer Complaints
33 ComplaintsKia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Niro PHEV. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer informed the contact to ship the vehicle to the United States for the repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Corrective Action:
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Niro PHEV. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer informed the contact to ship the vehicle to the United States for the repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Additional Notes:
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Niro PHEV. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer informed the contact to ship the vehicle to the United States for the repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Mfg Campaign: 11611750
Recall Date: Aug 30, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
When accelerating from a dead stop, sometimes the car makes a very loud 'clunk' noise and lurches forward. Similar to the feeling when someone drives a manual transmission and takes the clutch out too fast. The car eventually finds the first gear and keeps driving, but this problem happens daily. Maybe around 5-10% of the time after every stop. There are multiple similar complaints on the NHTSA website and on online forums. It is a well-documented issue.
Corrective Action:
When accelerating from a dead stop, sometimes the car makes a very loud 'clunk' noise and lurches forward. Similar to the feeling when someone drives a manual transmission and takes the clutch out too fast. The car eventually finds the first gear and keeps driving, but this problem happens daily. Maybe around 5-10% of the time after every stop. There are multiple similar complaints on the NHTSA website and on online forums. It is a well-documented issue.
Additional Notes:
When accelerating from a dead stop, sometimes the car makes a very loud 'clunk' noise and lurches forward. Similar to the feeling when someone drives a manual transmission and takes the clutch out too fast. The car eventually finds the first gear and keeps driving, but this problem happens daily. Maybe around 5-10% of the time after every stop. There are multiple similar complaints on the NHTSA website and on online forums. It is a well-documented issue.
Mfg Campaign: 11605641
Recall Date: Jul 31, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
My 2019 Kia Niro LX PHEV is or has recently been the subject of multiple including NHTSA Recall Number [XXX] and Service Action [XXX]. Despite coordinating repair of these defects with the University Kia dealership located at 5105 Durham Chapel Hill Blvd, Durham, NC 27707 (hereafter 'University Kia"), and taking my vehicle to University Kia for those repairs twice, University Kia has been unable or unwilling to repair the defects over a 4-month period. This delay has not been due to parts availability, as I have received multiple assurances that parts needed to repair the defects were available. After three separate service appointments, University Kia has been unable to address these defects, and my vehicle remains in an unsafe condition. P.S.: The numbers on the prior page of the form where I can nominally report these issues (888-327-4236 & 800-424-9153) don't seem to be working. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Corrective Action:
My 2019 Kia Niro LX PHEV is or has recently been the subject of multiple including NHTSA Recall Number [XXX] and Service Action [XXX]. Despite coordinating repair of these defects with the University Kia dealership located at 5105 Durham Chapel Hill Blvd, Durham, NC 27707 (hereafter 'University Kia"), and taking my vehicle to University Kia for those repairs twice, University Kia has been unable or unwilling to repair the defects over a 4-month period. This delay has not been due to parts availability, as I have received multiple assurances that parts needed to repair the defects were available. After three separate service appointments, University Kia has been unable to address these defects, and my vehicle remains in an unsafe condition. P.S.: The numbers on the prior page of the form where I can nominally report these issues (888-327-4236 & 800-424-9153) don't seem to be working. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Additional Notes:
My 2019 Kia Niro LX PHEV is or has recently been the subject of multiple including NHTSA Recall Number [XXX] and Service Action [XXX]. Despite coordinating repair of these defects with the University Kia dealership located at 5105 Durham Chapel Hill Blvd, Durham, NC 27707 (hereafter 'University Kia"), and taking my vehicle to University Kia for those repairs twice, University Kia has been unable or unwilling to repair the defects over a 4-month period. This delay has not been due to parts availability, as I have received multiple assurances that parts needed to repair the defects were available. After three separate service appointments, University Kia has been unable to address these defects, and my vehicle remains in an unsafe condition. P.S.: The numbers on the prior page of the form where I can nominally report these issues (888-327-4236 & 800-424-9153) don't seem to be working. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Mfg Campaign: 11579063
Recall Date: Mar 23, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
12 volt battery will suddenly and without warning loose capacity to power the vehicle operating controls and displays including remote key access, start sequence using push button start, and traction battery charging through charging port. While parked and connected to a charging station vehicle ‘died’ in place. This occurred within 10 minutes of last use of remote key to unlock doors, open doors, place shopping bags, close doors, and use driver door push button feature to relock doors. Outside air temperature was mid 20’s Fahrenheit. Traction battery was fully depleted per dashboard miles available display as vehicle driven 20 plus miles using hybrid vehicle mode just prior to parking at charging station. Vehicle was removed from charging station connection and 1.5 hours later jump started using connection under hood. After start was driven just under 4 miles to home garage where plugged into 110 volt home charger. Multimeter on 12 volt system after recharge of traction battery read over 12 volts. Appears that control system for maintaining charge on 12 volt system using traction battery has a flaw that fails to detect 12 volt battery condition and react correctly. While this occurred this time while vehicle stopped and shutoff there is potential for such to occur while vehicle in a roadway at highway speeds causing vehicle to loose all power as 12 volt system powers all operating logic. As a practicing engineer over 50 years and college instructor of engineering for about 40 years it appears that there is a software error in assuring 12 volt system intact and a failure of the software to identify potential problem, notify operator, provide a manual reboot of operating system before 12 volt system reaches failure level if it ever did. Unlike alternator equipped vehicles that show failure of alternator no such given on hybrid.
Corrective Action:
12 volt battery will suddenly and without warning loose capacity to power the vehicle operating controls and displays including remote key access, start sequence using push button start, and traction battery charging through charging port. While parked and connected to a charging station vehicle ‘died’ in place. This occurred within 10 minutes of last use of remote key to unlock doors, open doors, place shopping bags, close doors, and use driver door push button feature to relock doors. Outside air temperature was mid 20’s Fahrenheit. Traction battery was fully depleted per dashboard miles available display as vehicle driven 20 plus miles using hybrid vehicle mode just prior to parking at charging station. Vehicle was removed from charging station connection and 1.5 hours later jump started using connection under hood. After start was driven just under 4 miles to home garage where plugged into 110 volt home charger. Multimeter on 12 volt system after recharge of traction battery read over 12 volts. Appears that control system for maintaining charge on 12 volt system using traction battery has a flaw that fails to detect 12 volt battery condition and react correctly. While this occurred this time while vehicle stopped and shutoff there is potential for such to occur while vehicle in a roadway at highway speeds causing vehicle to loose all power as 12 volt system powers all operating logic. As a practicing engineer over 50 years and college instructor of engineering for about 40 years it appears that there is a software error in assuring 12 volt system intact and a failure of the software to identify potential problem, notify operator, provide a manual reboot of operating system before 12 volt system reaches failure level if it ever did. Unlike alternator equipped vehicles that show failure of alternator no such given on hybrid.
Additional Notes:
12 volt battery will suddenly and without warning loose capacity to power the vehicle operating controls and displays including remote key access, start sequence using push button start, and traction battery charging through charging port. While parked and connected to a charging station vehicle ‘died’ in place. This occurred within 10 minutes of last use of remote key to unlock doors, open doors, place shopping bags, close doors, and use driver door push button feature to relock doors. Outside air temperature was mid 20’s Fahrenheit. Traction battery was fully depleted per dashboard miles available display as vehicle driven 20 plus miles using hybrid vehicle mode just prior to parking at charging station. Vehicle was removed from charging station connection and 1.5 hours later jump started using connection under hood. After start was driven just under 4 miles to home garage where plugged into 110 volt home charger. Multimeter on 12 volt system after recharge of traction battery read over 12 volts. Appears that control system for maintaining charge on 12 volt system using traction battery has a flaw that fails to detect 12 volt battery condition and react correctly. While this occurred this time while vehicle stopped and shutoff there is potential for such to occur while vehicle in a roadway at highway speeds causing vehicle to loose all power as 12 volt system powers all operating logic. As a practicing engineer over 50 years and college instructor of engineering for about 40 years it appears that there is a software error in assuring 12 volt system intact and a failure of the software to identify potential problem, notify operator, provide a manual reboot of operating system before 12 volt system reaches failure level if it ever did. Unlike alternator equipped vehicles that show failure of alternator no such given on hybrid.
Mfg Campaign: 11571634
Recall Date: Feb 13, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
This complaint references the open recall with the Kia reference SC276 and the NHTSA reference of 23V534. Kia has not been able to provide me with repair despite a notice from them stating a remedy is available, and appears Kia may be sending out faulty notices. I first received notice in July/August, 2023 that this recall was in process but remedy was not available. This week, I recieved a letter dated December 29, 2023 that explicitly states remedy is available (attachments will be added). However, the NHTSA website, the Kia recall website, and my local Kia dealer all as of today (01/04/24) say that remedy still is not available. I have attempted to call Kia customer care at the number on the letter, but every attempt has resulted in their system hanging up on me before I could reach anyone.
Corrective Action:
This complaint references the open recall with the Kia reference SC276 and the NHTSA reference of 23V534. Kia has not been able to provide me with repair despite a notice from them stating a remedy is available, and appears Kia may be sending out faulty notices. I first received notice in July/August, 2023 that this recall was in process but remedy was not available. This week, I recieved a letter dated December 29, 2023 that explicitly states remedy is available (attachments will be added). However, the NHTSA website, the Kia recall website, and my local Kia dealer all as of today (01/04/24) say that remedy still is not available. I have attempted to call Kia customer care at the number on the letter, but every attempt has resulted in their system hanging up on me before I could reach anyone.
Additional Notes:
This complaint references the open recall with the Kia reference SC276 and the NHTSA reference of 23V534. Kia has not been able to provide me with repair despite a notice from them stating a remedy is available, and appears Kia may be sending out faulty notices. I first received notice in July/August, 2023 that this recall was in process but remedy was not available. This week, I recieved a letter dated December 29, 2023 that explicitly states remedy is available (attachments will be added). However, the NHTSA website, the Kia recall website, and my local Kia dealer all as of today (01/04/24) say that remedy still is not available. I have attempted to call Kia customer care at the number on the letter, but every attempt has resulted in their system hanging up on me before I could reach anyone.
Mfg Campaign: 11563593
Recall Date: Jan 4, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
On 7-31-2022 while traveling on the freeway the gas engine shut down, HEV triangle came on and the information center on the car displayed "turn off car restart" on this trip it happened three times. I took the car to the dealer and they had it for a month and could not get it to act up. On 5-5-2023 it did it again twice, I called the dealer and they did not have a loaner car, they said they would let me know when they do. On the 6-30-2023 it did it eleven times. I called the dealer and they checked the car into service a mouth later 7-2023. The car has been at the dealer since then, now it is 12-2023. The dealer has not been able to get it to act up. I call KIA customer service and they told me they would not do the recall unless the dealer can repeat the problem. When this happens, I have only a limited amount of room to get the car off the road. This problem has only happened on freeways and the mountain pass with limited pull outs. This exposes me and any passenger's to a rear end collision. I feel the manufacture is playing roullet with me and my passenger's lives. All my dealer paper work is in my car a two hour trip at Sunset KIA 3317 Auburn way N Auburn WA 98002
Corrective Action:
On 7-31-2022 while traveling on the freeway the gas engine shut down, HEV triangle came on and the information center on the car displayed "turn off car restart" on this trip it happened three times. I took the car to the dealer and they had it for a month and could not get it to act up. On 5-5-2023 it did it again twice, I called the dealer and they did not have a loaner car, they said they would let me know when they do. On the 6-30-2023 it did it eleven times. I called the dealer and they checked the car into service a mouth later 7-2023. The car has been at the dealer since then, now it is 12-2023. The dealer has not been able to get it to act up. I call KIA customer service and they told me they would not do the recall unless the dealer can repeat the problem. When this happens, I have only a limited amount of room to get the car off the road. This problem has only happened on freeways and the mountain pass with limited pull outs. This exposes me and any passenger's to a rear end collision. I feel the manufacture is playing roullet with me and my passenger's lives. All my dealer paper work is in my car a two hour trip at Sunset KIA 3317 Auburn way N Auburn WA 98002
Additional Notes:
On 7-31-2022 while traveling on the freeway the gas engine shut down, HEV triangle came on and the information center on the car displayed "turn off car restart" on this trip it happened three times. I took the car to the dealer and they had it for a month and could not get it to act up. On 5-5-2023 it did it again twice, I called the dealer and they did not have a loaner car, they said they would let me know when they do. On the 6-30-2023 it did it eleven times. I called the dealer and they checked the car into service a mouth later 7-2023. The car has been at the dealer since then, now it is 12-2023. The dealer has not been able to get it to act up. I call KIA customer service and they told me they would not do the recall unless the dealer can repeat the problem. When this happens, I have only a limited amount of room to get the car off the road. This problem has only happened on freeways and the mountain pass with limited pull outs. This exposes me and any passenger's to a rear end collision. I feel the manufacture is playing roullet with me and my passenger's lives. All my dealer paper work is in my car a two hour trip at Sunset KIA 3317 Auburn way N Auburn WA 98002
Mfg Campaign: 11559989
Recall Date: Dec 13, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
On 7-31-2022 while traveling on the freeway the gas engine shut down, HEV triangle came on and the information center on the car displayed "turn off car restart" on this trip it happened three times. I took the car to the dealer and they had it for a month and could not get it to act up. On 5-5-2023 it did it again twice, I called the dealer and they did not have a loaner car, they said they would let me know when they do. On the 6-30-2023 it did it eleven times. I called the dealer and they checked the car into service a mouth later 7-2023. The car has been at the dealer since then, now it is 12-2023. The dealer has not been able to get it to act up. I call KIA customer service and they told me they would not do the recall unless the dealer can repeat the problem. When this happens, I have only a limited amount of room to get the car off the road. This problem has only happened on freeways and the mountain pass with limited pull outs. This exposes me and any passenger's to a rear end collision. I feel the manufacture is playing roullet with me and my passenger's lives. All my dealer paper work is in my car a two hour trip at Sunset KIA 3317 Auburn way N Auburn WA 98002
Corrective Action:
On 7-31-2022 while traveling on the freeway the gas engine shut down, HEV triangle came on and the information center on the car displayed "turn off car restart" on this trip it happened three times. I took the car to the dealer and they had it for a month and could not get it to act up. On 5-5-2023 it did it again twice, I called the dealer and they did not have a loaner car, they said they would let me know when they do. On the 6-30-2023 it did it eleven times. I called the dealer and they checked the car into service a mouth later 7-2023. The car has been at the dealer since then, now it is 12-2023. The dealer has not been able to get it to act up. I call KIA customer service and they told me they would not do the recall unless the dealer can repeat the problem. When this happens, I have only a limited amount of room to get the car off the road. This problem has only happened on freeways and the mountain pass with limited pull outs. This exposes me and any passenger's to a rear end collision. I feel the manufacture is playing roullet with me and my passenger's lives. All my dealer paper work is in my car a two hour trip at Sunset KIA 3317 Auburn way N Auburn WA 98002
Additional Notes:
On 7-31-2022 while traveling on the freeway the gas engine shut down, HEV triangle came on and the information center on the car displayed "turn off car restart" on this trip it happened three times. I took the car to the dealer and they had it for a month and could not get it to act up. On 5-5-2023 it did it again twice, I called the dealer and they did not have a loaner car, they said they would let me know when they do. On the 6-30-2023 it did it eleven times. I called the dealer and they checked the car into service a mouth later 7-2023. The car has been at the dealer since then, now it is 12-2023. The dealer has not been able to get it to act up. I call KIA customer service and they told me they would not do the recall unless the dealer can repeat the problem. When this happens, I have only a limited amount of room to get the car off the road. This problem has only happened on freeways and the mountain pass with limited pull outs. This exposes me and any passenger's to a rear end collision. I feel the manufacture is playing roullet with me and my passenger's lives. All my dealer paper work is in my car a two hour trip at Sunset KIA 3317 Auburn way N Auburn WA 98002
Mfg Campaign: 11559989
Recall Date: Dec 13, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
Recall letter from KIA states "WARNING: You may experience illumination of the HEV warning light. If this occurs, pull over to a safe location and contact Kia Roadside Assistance ... to request to have your vehicle towed to the nearest authorized Kia dealership as soon as possible." This implies that the car is not safely driveable if the HEV warning light illuminates. My HEV warning light illuminated, but neither of two local Kia dealerships is willing to take responsibility since the "remedy is not available" from Kia. This means I have lost the safe use of my car for an indefinite period without any compensation from Kia.
Corrective Action:
Recall letter from KIA states "WARNING: You may experience illumination of the HEV warning light. If this occurs, pull over to a safe location and contact Kia Roadside Assistance ... to request to have your vehicle towed to the nearest authorized Kia dealership as soon as possible." This implies that the car is not safely driveable if the HEV warning light illuminates. My HEV warning light illuminated, but neither of two local Kia dealerships is willing to take responsibility since the "remedy is not available" from Kia. This means I have lost the safe use of my car for an indefinite period without any compensation from Kia.
Additional Notes:
Recall letter from KIA states "WARNING: You may experience illumination of the HEV warning light. If this occurs, pull over to a safe location and contact Kia Roadside Assistance ... to request to have your vehicle towed to the nearest authorized Kia dealership as soon as possible." This implies that the car is not safely driveable if the HEV warning light illuminates. My HEV warning light illuminated, but neither of two local Kia dealerships is willing to take responsibility since the "remedy is not available" from Kia. This means I have lost the safe use of my car for an indefinite period without any compensation from Kia.
Mfg Campaign: 11559774
Recall Date: Dec 12, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
My car sometimes lurches when I am moving from a stopped position. This is dangerous as it causes the car to hesitate when I am sometimes pulling out across traffic for a left turn. It is especially frequent when I am on a slight incline. It feels like it might have something to do with the transmission shifting from the EV mode. I have read about other people having the same problem with this car on online forums but there have been no recalls and they have the same trouble getting their dealerships to fix it. I took my car to the dealership multiple times, and they were able to reproduce the issue and thought it was initially something to do with calibrating the computers. It seemed to temporarily "fix" it so I picked it back up, just to have the same problem a week later. Since it happens sporadically, it has been difficult to get the dealership to fix the issue as sometimes they are unable to reproduce the issue.
Corrective Action:
My car sometimes lurches when I am moving from a stopped position. This is dangerous as it causes the car to hesitate when I am sometimes pulling out across traffic for a left turn. It is especially frequent when I am on a slight incline. It feels like it might have something to do with the transmission shifting from the EV mode. I have read about other people having the same problem with this car on online forums but there have been no recalls and they have the same trouble getting their dealerships to fix it. I took my car to the dealership multiple times, and they were able to reproduce the issue and thought it was initially something to do with calibrating the computers. It seemed to temporarily "fix" it so I picked it back up, just to have the same problem a week later. Since it happens sporadically, it has been difficult to get the dealership to fix the issue as sometimes they are unable to reproduce the issue.
Additional Notes:
My car sometimes lurches when I am moving from a stopped position. This is dangerous as it causes the car to hesitate when I am sometimes pulling out across traffic for a left turn. It is especially frequent when I am on a slight incline. It feels like it might have something to do with the transmission shifting from the EV mode. I have read about other people having the same problem with this car on online forums but there have been no recalls and they have the same trouble getting their dealerships to fix it. I took my car to the dealership multiple times, and they were able to reproduce the issue and thought it was initially something to do with calibrating the computers. It seemed to temporarily "fix" it so I picked it back up, just to have the same problem a week later. Since it happens sporadically, it has been difficult to get the dealership to fix the issue as sometimes they are unable to reproduce the issue.
Mfg Campaign: 11552928
Recall Date: Oct 31, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
From a stop, I step on the gas quickly and it feels like the transmission has just broken. It causes my pulse to increase and scares and distracts me so much I've almost had an accident a several times. I have scheduled an appointment with Kia to assess the problem. I will provide an update once they have concluded their assessment.
Corrective Action:
From a stop, I step on the gas quickly and it feels like the transmission has just broken. It causes my pulse to increase and scares and distracts me so much I've almost had an accident a several times. I have scheduled an appointment with Kia to assess the problem. I will provide an update once they have concluded their assessment.
Additional Notes:
From a stop, I step on the gas quickly and it feels like the transmission has just broken. It causes my pulse to increase and scares and distracts me so much I've almost had an accident a several times. I have scheduled an appointment with Kia to assess the problem. I will provide an update once they have concluded their assessment.
Mfg Campaign: 11536669
Recall Date: Aug 5, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
SERVICE BRAKES
Potential Consequences:
The rubber pad on the brake pedal came off almost causing me not to be able to stop effectively. What was left is a small steel pedal which sometimes is challenging to feel.
Corrective Action:
The rubber pad on the brake pedal came off almost causing me not to be able to stop effectively. What was left is a small steel pedal which sometimes is challenging to feel.
Additional Notes:
The rubber pad on the brake pedal came off almost causing me not to be able to stop effectively. What was left is a small steel pedal which sometimes is challenging to feel.
Mfg Campaign: 11505781
Recall Date: Feb 6, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
Within the first 6 months of owning our 2019 Kia Plugin Hybrid, we started experiencing a clunk with a lurch when accelerating from a stopped position. The issue became progressively worse over time - increasing in frequency and severity. The car has been to the Kia Lupient dealership in Brooklyn Park, MN multiple times for this issue. At our most recent visit on November 7th, 2022, the service advisor acknowledged that the issue may be due to shipping the vehicle with the wrong transmission fluid. The transmission fluid was replaced with the correct fluid. However, we experienced the issue again on December 2, 2022. Could the wrong fluid have caused permanent damage to the transmission? This Technical Service Bulletin (https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2020/MC-10174520-0001.pdf) indicates that could be true. We are pursing arbitration with the dealership.
Corrective Action:
Within the first 6 months of owning our 2019 Kia Plugin Hybrid, we started experiencing a clunk with a lurch when accelerating from a stopped position. The issue became progressively worse over time - increasing in frequency and severity. The car has been to the Kia Lupient dealership in Brooklyn Park, MN multiple times for this issue. At our most recent visit on November 7th, 2022, the service advisor acknowledged that the issue may be due to shipping the vehicle with the wrong transmission fluid. The transmission fluid was replaced with the correct fluid. However, we experienced the issue again on December 2, 2022. Could the wrong fluid have caused permanent damage to the transmission? This Technical Service Bulletin (https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2020/MC-10174520-0001.pdf) indicates that could be true. We are pursing arbitration with the dealership.
Additional Notes:
Within the first 6 months of owning our 2019 Kia Plugin Hybrid, we started experiencing a clunk with a lurch when accelerating from a stopped position. The issue became progressively worse over time - increasing in frequency and severity. The car has been to the Kia Lupient dealership in Brooklyn Park, MN multiple times for this issue. At our most recent visit on November 7th, 2022, the service advisor acknowledged that the issue may be due to shipping the vehicle with the wrong transmission fluid. The transmission fluid was replaced with the correct fluid. However, we experienced the issue again on December 2, 2022. Could the wrong fluid have caused permanent damage to the transmission? This Technical Service Bulletin (https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2020/MC-10174520-0001.pdf) indicates that could be true. We are pursing arbitration with the dealership.
Mfg Campaign: 11499188
Recall Date: Dec 28, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
I have a used 2019 Niro PHEV. I started getting a loud jerk when starting from a full stop. At first it started happened in EV mode only but I've had it happen in Hybrid mode a couple of times ( not sure if the engine is actually working or just on for Heating). The sound and jerk can best be described as what happens when you drive a stick shift and you pull the clutch too quickly in first gear without any gas and the car jerks forward. It also feels like I've been rear ended. The car feels unsafe the drive. There were no warning lights. Dealer hasn't reproduced it yet. I just brought it in. Please see these forum posts about this issue. Many others are experiencing this: https://www.kianiroforum.com/threads/brand-new-2019-phev-loud-jerking-noise-when-starting-from-full-stop.8740/ https://www.kia-forums.com/threads/occasional-hard-loud-shift-from-start-on-new-niro-phev.342780/
Corrective Action:
I have a used 2019 Niro PHEV. I started getting a loud jerk when starting from a full stop. At first it started happened in EV mode only but I've had it happen in Hybrid mode a couple of times ( not sure if the engine is actually working or just on for Heating). The sound and jerk can best be described as what happens when you drive a stick shift and you pull the clutch too quickly in first gear without any gas and the car jerks forward. It also feels like I've been rear ended. The car feels unsafe the drive. There were no warning lights. Dealer hasn't reproduced it yet. I just brought it in. Please see these forum posts about this issue. Many others are experiencing this: https://www.kianiroforum.com/threads/brand-new-2019-phev-loud-jerking-noise-when-starting-from-full-stop.8740/ https://www.kia-forums.com/threads/occasional-hard-loud-shift-from-start-on-new-niro-phev.342780/
Additional Notes:
I have a used 2019 Niro PHEV. I started getting a loud jerk when starting from a full stop. At first it started happened in EV mode only but I've had it happen in Hybrid mode a couple of times ( not sure if the engine is actually working or just on for Heating). The sound and jerk can best be described as what happens when you drive a stick shift and you pull the clutch too quickly in first gear without any gas and the car jerks forward. It also feels like I've been rear ended. The car feels unsafe the drive. There were no warning lights. Dealer hasn't reproduced it yet. I just brought it in. Please see these forum posts about this issue. Many others are experiencing this: https://www.kianiroforum.com/threads/brand-new-2019-phev-loud-jerking-noise-when-starting-from-full-stop.8740/ https://www.kia-forums.com/threads/occasional-hard-loud-shift-from-start-on-new-niro-phev.342780/
Mfg Campaign: 11495928
Recall Date: Dec 3, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Potential Consequences:
I have a used 2019 Niro PHEV. I started getting a loud jerk when starting from a full stop. At first it started happened in EV mode only but I've had it happen in Hybrid mode a couple of times ( not sure if the engine is actually working or just on for Heating). The sound and jerk can best be described as what happens when you drive a stick shift and you pull the clutch too quickly in first gear without any gas and the car jerks forward. It also feels like I've been rear ended. The car feels unsafe the drive. There were no warning lights. Dealer hasn't reproduced it yet. I just brought it in. Please see these forum posts about this issue. Many others are experiencing this: https://www.kianiroforum.com/threads/brand-new-2019-phev-loud-jerking-noise-when-starting-from-full-stop.8740/ https://www.kia-forums.com/threads/occasional-hard-loud-shift-from-start-on-new-niro-phev.342780/
Corrective Action:
I have a used 2019 Niro PHEV. I started getting a loud jerk when starting from a full stop. At first it started happened in EV mode only but I've had it happen in Hybrid mode a couple of times ( not sure if the engine is actually working or just on for Heating). The sound and jerk can best be described as what happens when you drive a stick shift and you pull the clutch too quickly in first gear without any gas and the car jerks forward. It also feels like I've been rear ended. The car feels unsafe the drive. There were no warning lights. Dealer hasn't reproduced it yet. I just brought it in. Please see these forum posts about this issue. Many others are experiencing this: https://www.kianiroforum.com/threads/brand-new-2019-phev-loud-jerking-noise-when-starting-from-full-stop.8740/ https://www.kia-forums.com/threads/occasional-hard-loud-shift-from-start-on-new-niro-phev.342780/
Additional Notes:
I have a used 2019 Niro PHEV. I started getting a loud jerk when starting from a full stop. At first it started happened in EV mode only but I've had it happen in Hybrid mode a couple of times ( not sure if the engine is actually working or just on for Heating). The sound and jerk can best be described as what happens when you drive a stick shift and you pull the clutch too quickly in first gear without any gas and the car jerks forward. It also feels like I've been rear ended. The car feels unsafe the drive. There were no warning lights. Dealer hasn't reproduced it yet. I just brought it in. Please see these forum posts about this issue. Many others are experiencing this: https://www.kianiroforum.com/threads/brand-new-2019-phev-loud-jerking-noise-when-starting-from-full-stop.8740/ https://www.kia-forums.com/threads/occasional-hard-loud-shift-from-start-on-new-niro-phev.342780/
Mfg Campaign: 11495928
Recall Date: Dec 3, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
I have a used 2019 Niro PHEV. I started getting a loud jerk when starting from a full stop. At first it started happened in EV mode only but I've had it happen in Hybrid mode a couple of times ( not sure if the engine is actually working or just on for Heating). The sound and jerk can best be described as what happens when you drive a stick shift and you pull the clutch too quickly in first gear without any gas and the car jerks forward. It also feels like I've been rear ended. The car feels unsafe the drive. There were no warning lights. Dealer hasn't reproduced it yet. I just brought it in. Please see these forum posts about this issue. Many others are experiencing this: https://www.kianiroforum.com/threads/brand-new-2019-phev-loud-jerking-noise-when-starting-from-full-stop.8740/ https://www.kia-forums.com/threads/occasional-hard-loud-shift-from-start-on-new-niro-phev.342780/
Corrective Action:
I have a used 2019 Niro PHEV. I started getting a loud jerk when starting from a full stop. At first it started happened in EV mode only but I've had it happen in Hybrid mode a couple of times ( not sure if the engine is actually working or just on for Heating). The sound and jerk can best be described as what happens when you drive a stick shift and you pull the clutch too quickly in first gear without any gas and the car jerks forward. It also feels like I've been rear ended. The car feels unsafe the drive. There were no warning lights. Dealer hasn't reproduced it yet. I just brought it in. Please see these forum posts about this issue. Many others are experiencing this: https://www.kianiroforum.com/threads/brand-new-2019-phev-loud-jerking-noise-when-starting-from-full-stop.8740/ https://www.kia-forums.com/threads/occasional-hard-loud-shift-from-start-on-new-niro-phev.342780/
Additional Notes:
I have a used 2019 Niro PHEV. I started getting a loud jerk when starting from a full stop. At first it started happened in EV mode only but I've had it happen in Hybrid mode a couple of times ( not sure if the engine is actually working or just on for Heating). The sound and jerk can best be described as what happens when you drive a stick shift and you pull the clutch too quickly in first gear without any gas and the car jerks forward. It also feels like I've been rear ended. The car feels unsafe the drive. There were no warning lights. Dealer hasn't reproduced it yet. I just brought it in. Please see these forum posts about this issue. Many others are experiencing this: https://www.kianiroforum.com/threads/brand-new-2019-phev-loud-jerking-noise-when-starting-from-full-stop.8740/ https://www.kia-forums.com/threads/occasional-hard-loud-shift-from-start-on-new-niro-phev.342780/
Mfg Campaign: 11495928
Recall Date: Dec 3, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
The vehicle has an intermittent jerk/clunk sound when accelerating or coming to a stop. Occasionally it can feel as if the clutch is coming engaging/disengaging roughly and cause passenger's heads to shake forward. In a few instances there has been a delay when pressing on the brakes to initiate stopping before the vehicle, this momentary loss of control is alarming. It feels as if the clutch and brakes did not react to the pedal immediately. I have taken the vehicle to the Kearny Mesa Kia dealership to diagnose the issue on 3 separate occasions starting from 2 months after purchasing the vehicle. On the most recent visit they have diagnosed that dual clutch failed a calibration test - it is unclear if they performed this test on the previous visits. Repairs have not yet been performed as I am disputing the out of warranty claim by the dealership
Corrective Action:
The vehicle has an intermittent jerk/clunk sound when accelerating or coming to a stop. Occasionally it can feel as if the clutch is coming engaging/disengaging roughly and cause passenger's heads to shake forward. In a few instances there has been a delay when pressing on the brakes to initiate stopping before the vehicle, this momentary loss of control is alarming. It feels as if the clutch and brakes did not react to the pedal immediately. I have taken the vehicle to the Kearny Mesa Kia dealership to diagnose the issue on 3 separate occasions starting from 2 months after purchasing the vehicle. On the most recent visit they have diagnosed that dual clutch failed a calibration test - it is unclear if they performed this test on the previous visits. Repairs have not yet been performed as I am disputing the out of warranty claim by the dealership
Additional Notes:
The vehicle has an intermittent jerk/clunk sound when accelerating or coming to a stop. Occasionally it can feel as if the clutch is coming engaging/disengaging roughly and cause passenger's heads to shake forward. In a few instances there has been a delay when pressing on the brakes to initiate stopping before the vehicle, this momentary loss of control is alarming. It feels as if the clutch and brakes did not react to the pedal immediately. I have taken the vehicle to the Kearny Mesa Kia dealership to diagnose the issue on 3 separate occasions starting from 2 months after purchasing the vehicle. On the most recent visit they have diagnosed that dual clutch failed a calibration test - it is unclear if they performed this test on the previous visits. Repairs have not yet been performed as I am disputing the out of warranty claim by the dealership
Mfg Campaign: 11477529
Recall Date: Aug 4, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
Obnoxious eye and lung burning fumes in the car when turning the heater on. It was so from the day I bought it. Many owners have reported it also on Kia nitro forum . I drive in the cold without the heater or leave the window open to let the fumes out. It’s a health hazard and seems to relate to their heater core or it’s insulation material. Dealer and Kia claim nothing is wrong. It’s a health and safety hazard in need of immediate solution and recall. Also car’s steering column make a wheezing or rubbing noise when turning the wheel. Dealer says it’s normal. It’s not a safety hazard yet. But I have never driven or heard any other car with persistent rubbing noise it it’s inside the car’s steering column. Whatever is rubbing will eventually wear out posing failure and safety risk. A voluntary recall may be in order.
Corrective Action:
Obnoxious eye and lung burning fumes in the car when turning the heater on. It was so from the day I bought it. Many owners have reported it also on Kia nitro forum . I drive in the cold without the heater or leave the window open to let the fumes out. It’s a health hazard and seems to relate to their heater core or it’s insulation material. Dealer and Kia claim nothing is wrong. It’s a health and safety hazard in need of immediate solution and recall. Also car’s steering column make a wheezing or rubbing noise when turning the wheel. Dealer says it’s normal. It’s not a safety hazard yet. But I have never driven or heard any other car with persistent rubbing noise it it’s inside the car’s steering column. Whatever is rubbing will eventually wear out posing failure and safety risk. A voluntary recall may be in order.
Additional Notes:
Obnoxious eye and lung burning fumes in the car when turning the heater on. It was so from the day I bought it. Many owners have reported it also on Kia nitro forum . I drive in the cold without the heater or leave the window open to let the fumes out. It’s a health hazard and seems to relate to their heater core or it’s insulation material. Dealer and Kia claim nothing is wrong. It’s a health and safety hazard in need of immediate solution and recall. Also car’s steering column make a wheezing or rubbing noise when turning the wheel. Dealer says it’s normal. It’s not a safety hazard yet. But I have never driven or heard any other car with persistent rubbing noise it it’s inside the car’s steering column. Whatever is rubbing will eventually wear out posing failure and safety risk. A voluntary recall may be in order.
Mfg Campaign: 11469746
Recall Date: Jun 17, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
I don't know what components are involved. When attempting to move forward from a stop the car does not respond immediately. Then there is clunk noise and a lurch forward. Sometimes when this happens it feels like the car has been hit from behind. The problem began about a year ago and has been into the dealer's service center several times. I believe during one of those service visits a reset of something was done that seemed to resolve the issue for several months. The problem is intermittent. Dealer has been unable to reproduce the issue, but stated the last time the car was in for service that another customer with the same year and make was having the same symptoms and a tech that had been allowed to use the car for over a week did not experience the issue. No warning lights or codes are associated with the issue. A car that fails to move forward on a green light is in danger of being rear-ended placing the people in the vehicle and surrounding vehicles at risk of bodily injury. The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone other than service staff at the FOlsom Lake Kia dealership. On February 18, 2022, the vehicle had no power (automatic doorlocks didn't work, etc) could not be started and was towed to the dealership where it is now.
Corrective Action:
I don't know what components are involved. When attempting to move forward from a stop the car does not respond immediately. Then there is clunk noise and a lurch forward. Sometimes when this happens it feels like the car has been hit from behind. The problem began about a year ago and has been into the dealer's service center several times. I believe during one of those service visits a reset of something was done that seemed to resolve the issue for several months. The problem is intermittent. Dealer has been unable to reproduce the issue, but stated the last time the car was in for service that another customer with the same year and make was having the same symptoms and a tech that had been allowed to use the car for over a week did not experience the issue. No warning lights or codes are associated with the issue. A car that fails to move forward on a green light is in danger of being rear-ended placing the people in the vehicle and surrounding vehicles at risk of bodily injury. The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone other than service staff at the FOlsom Lake Kia dealership. On February 18, 2022, the vehicle had no power (automatic doorlocks didn't work, etc) could not be started and was towed to the dealership where it is now.
Additional Notes:
I don't know what components are involved. When attempting to move forward from a stop the car does not respond immediately. Then there is clunk noise and a lurch forward. Sometimes when this happens it feels like the car has been hit from behind. The problem began about a year ago and has been into the dealer's service center several times. I believe during one of those service visits a reset of something was done that seemed to resolve the issue for several months. The problem is intermittent. Dealer has been unable to reproduce the issue, but stated the last time the car was in for service that another customer with the same year and make was having the same symptoms and a tech that had been allowed to use the car for over a week did not experience the issue. No warning lights or codes are associated with the issue. A car that fails to move forward on a green light is in danger of being rear-ended placing the people in the vehicle and surrounding vehicles at risk of bodily injury. The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone other than service staff at the FOlsom Lake Kia dealership. On February 18, 2022, the vehicle had no power (automatic doorlocks didn't work, etc) could not be started and was towed to the dealership where it is now.
Mfg Campaign: 11452958
Recall Date: Feb 19, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
I don't know what components are involved. When attempting to move forward from a stop the car does not respond immediately. Then there is clunk noise and a lurch forward. Sometimes when this happens it feels like the car has been hit from behind. The problem began about a year ago and has been into the dealer's service center several times. I believe during one of those service visits a reset of something was done that seemed to resolve the issue for several months. The problem is intermittent. Dealer has been unable to reproduce the issue, but stated the last time the car was in for service that another customer with the same year and make was having the same symptoms and a tech that had been allowed to use the car for over a week did not experience the issue. No warning lights or codes are associated with the issue. A car that fails to move forward on a green light is in danger of being rear-ended placing the people in the vehicle and surrounding vehicles at risk of bodily injury. The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone other than service staff at the FOlsom Lake Kia dealership. On February 18, 2022, the vehicle had no power (automatic doorlocks didn't work, etc) could not be started and was towed to the dealership where it is now.
Corrective Action:
I don't know what components are involved. When attempting to move forward from a stop the car does not respond immediately. Then there is clunk noise and a lurch forward. Sometimes when this happens it feels like the car has been hit from behind. The problem began about a year ago and has been into the dealer's service center several times. I believe during one of those service visits a reset of something was done that seemed to resolve the issue for several months. The problem is intermittent. Dealer has been unable to reproduce the issue, but stated the last time the car was in for service that another customer with the same year and make was having the same symptoms and a tech that had been allowed to use the car for over a week did not experience the issue. No warning lights or codes are associated with the issue. A car that fails to move forward on a green light is in danger of being rear-ended placing the people in the vehicle and surrounding vehicles at risk of bodily injury. The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone other than service staff at the FOlsom Lake Kia dealership. On February 18, 2022, the vehicle had no power (automatic doorlocks didn't work, etc) could not be started and was towed to the dealership where it is now.
Additional Notes:
I don't know what components are involved. When attempting to move forward from a stop the car does not respond immediately. Then there is clunk noise and a lurch forward. Sometimes when this happens it feels like the car has been hit from behind. The problem began about a year ago and has been into the dealer's service center several times. I believe during one of those service visits a reset of something was done that seemed to resolve the issue for several months. The problem is intermittent. Dealer has been unable to reproduce the issue, but stated the last time the car was in for service that another customer with the same year and make was having the same symptoms and a tech that had been allowed to use the car for over a week did not experience the issue. No warning lights or codes are associated with the issue. A car that fails to move forward on a green light is in danger of being rear-ended placing the people in the vehicle and surrounding vehicles at risk of bodily injury. The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone other than service staff at the FOlsom Lake Kia dealership. On February 18, 2022, the vehicle had no power (automatic doorlocks didn't work, etc) could not be started and was towed to the dealership where it is now.
Mfg Campaign: 11452958
Recall Date: Feb 19, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
I don't know what components are involved. When attempting to move forward from a stop the car does not respond immediately. Then there is clunk noise and a lurch forward. Sometimes when this happens it feels like the car has been hit from behind. The problem began about a year ago and has been into the dealer's service center several times. I believe during one of those service visits a reset of something was done that seemed to resolve the issue for several months. The problem is intermittent. Dealer has been unable to reproduce the issue, but stated the last time the car was in for service that another customer with the same year and make was having the same symptoms and a tech that had been allowed to use the car for over a week did not experience the issue. No warning lights or codes are associated with the issue. A car that fails to move forward on a green light is in danger of being rear-ended placing the people in the vehicle and surrounding vehicles at risk of bodily injury. The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone other than service staff at the FOlsom Lake Kia dealership. On February 18, 2022, the vehicle had no power (automatic doorlocks didn't work, etc) could not be started and was towed to the dealership where it is now.
Corrective Action:
I don't know what components are involved. When attempting to move forward from a stop the car does not respond immediately. Then there is clunk noise and a lurch forward. Sometimes when this happens it feels like the car has been hit from behind. The problem began about a year ago and has been into the dealer's service center several times. I believe during one of those service visits a reset of something was done that seemed to resolve the issue for several months. The problem is intermittent. Dealer has been unable to reproduce the issue, but stated the last time the car was in for service that another customer with the same year and make was having the same symptoms and a tech that had been allowed to use the car for over a week did not experience the issue. No warning lights or codes are associated with the issue. A car that fails to move forward on a green light is in danger of being rear-ended placing the people in the vehicle and surrounding vehicles at risk of bodily injury. The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone other than service staff at the FOlsom Lake Kia dealership. On February 18, 2022, the vehicle had no power (automatic doorlocks didn't work, etc) could not be started and was towed to the dealership where it is now.
Additional Notes:
I don't know what components are involved. When attempting to move forward from a stop the car does not respond immediately. Then there is clunk noise and a lurch forward. Sometimes when this happens it feels like the car has been hit from behind. The problem began about a year ago and has been into the dealer's service center several times. I believe during one of those service visits a reset of something was done that seemed to resolve the issue for several months. The problem is intermittent. Dealer has been unable to reproduce the issue, but stated the last time the car was in for service that another customer with the same year and make was having the same symptoms and a tech that had been allowed to use the car for over a week did not experience the issue. No warning lights or codes are associated with the issue. A car that fails to move forward on a green light is in danger of being rear-ended placing the people in the vehicle and surrounding vehicles at risk of bodily injury. The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone other than service staff at the FOlsom Lake Kia dealership. On February 18, 2022, the vehicle had no power (automatic doorlocks didn't work, etc) could not be started and was towed to the dealership where it is now.
Mfg Campaign: 11452958
Recall Date: Feb 19, 2022
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