February 21, 2020 NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V100000
Low Pressure Fuel Hose May Crack and Leak
If the fuel hose cracks, a fuel leak can occur, increasing the risk of a fire.
NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V100
Manufacturer Kia
Motors America
Components FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Potential Number of Units Affected 141,774
Summary
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.
Remedy
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.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Check if your Kia has a Recall
INTERIM NOTICE
April 8, 2020
Attention: All Kia Parts & Service Managers
This is an INTERIM notice as Kia is currently working on the remedy. The purpose of this communication is to keep you informed of Kia’s recall implementation plan. We will send you another notice as soon as the remedy becomes available.
Kia Motors America, Inc., pursuant to the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act, is conducting a Safety Recall Campaign on certain 2013-2014 MY Kia Optima vehicles equipped with the 2.4-liter Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and 2.0-liter GDI Turbo engines manufactured at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG). The material of the low-pressure fuel tube may deteriorate over time and develop a crack from exposure to heat generated within the engine compartment under certain circumstances. If the fuel tube develops a crack, a fuel smell and eventually a fuel leak can occur. A fuel leak increases the risk of a fire.
The Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that provides Vehicle Repair Procedures, Affected VIN Production Range, and Warranty Claim Information will be posted on the Kia Global Information System (KGIS) at www.kiatechinfo.com once the remedy is available.
Enclosed you will find a copy of the interim owner notification letter and a Q&A Guide for recall questions, both of which describe the issue. Note that any vehicle owners who have already paid for repairs due to this condition can submit a request for reimbursement online via the Owner’s Section of www.kia.com.
Kia will mail interim notices to the affected vehicle owners beginning on April 13, 2020. A follow-up notice will be mailed once the remedy becomes available.
Also, please make certain the appropriate personnel in your dealership are familiar with the details of this recall to ensure proper responses to customer inquiries and requests to have the recall performed on their vehicles. This Safety Recall represents an opportunity for your service department to deliver an exceptional service experience (e.g. flexible service appointment process, car wash and vacuum and timely service).
NHTSA ADVISORY: It is a violation of Federal law for a dealer to deliver a new motor vehicle covered by this notification under a sale or lease until the defect is remedied.
LEGAL PRIVACY LIABILITY NOTICE: Pursuant to the terms of the Dealer Sales and Service Agreement and the Gramm-Leach-Bliley federal consumer privacy act, you are required to keep confidential any and all information and documents provided to you by Kia Motors America, Inc. or generated by you in the conduct of carrying out work under that Agreement regarding Kia vehicle purchasers and owners, including but not limited to warranty claim information. Kia dealers may use such owner information for the sole purpose of conducting and performing this safety recall campaign, and for no other purpose.
If you have any questions, please contact your Kia District Parts and Service Manager.
Sincerely,
Kia Service Department
SC187
INTERIM NOTICE
April 8, 2020
Attention: All Dealer Principals
This is an interim notice as Kia is currently evaluating a remedy. The purpose of this communication is to keep you informed of Kia’s recall implementation plan. We will send you another notice when the remedy becomes available.
Kia Motors America, Inc., pursuant to the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act, is conducting a Safety Recall Campaign on certain 2013-2014 MY Kia Optima vehicles equipped with the 2.4-liter Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and 2.0-liter GDI Turbo engines manufactured at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG). The material of the low pressure fuel tube may deteriorate over time and develop a crack from exposure to heat generated within the engine compartment under certain circumstances. If the fuel tube develops a crack, a fuel smell and eventually a fuel leak can occur. A fuel leak increases the risk of a fire.
Your Service Manager was sent a copy of the owner notification letter and a Q&A guide for recall questions both of which describe the issue and information on how to access the list of affected vehicles.
Kia will mail interim notices to the affected vehicle owners beginning on April 13, 2020. A follow-up notice will be mailed once the remedy becomes available.
NHTSA ADVISORY: It is a violation of Federal law for a dealer to deliver a new motor vehicle covered by this notification under a sale or lease until the defect is remedied.
What Should You Do
Please make certain the appropriate personnel in your dealership are familiar with the details of this recall campaign to ensure proper responses to customer inquiries and requests to have the campaign performed on their vehicles.
LEGAL PRIVACY LIABILITY NOTICE: Pursuant to the terms of the Dealer Sales and Service Agreement and the Gramm-Leach-Bliley federal consumer privacy act, you are required to keep confidential any and all information and documents provided to you by Kia Motors America, Inc. or generated by you in the conduct of carrying out work under that Agreement regarding Kia vehicle purchasers and owners, including but not limited to warranty claim information. Kia dealers may use such owner information for the sole purpose of conducting and performing this safety recall campaign, and for no other purpose.
If you have any questions, please contact your Kia District Parts & Service Manager.
Sincerely,
Kia Service Department
Enclosures
SC187
Kia Motors America, Inc.
Corporate Headquarters
111 Peters Canyon Road, Irvine, CA 92606-1790 USA
IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL
(Interim Notice)
(NHTSA Recall Number: 20V-100)
This notice applies to your vehicle: (Insert VIN)
April 13, 2020
Dear Kia Optima Owner:
Kia has identified a defect in your vehicle which relates to motor vehicle safety
This notice is sent to you in accordance with the requirements of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Kia Motors has decided that a defect which relates to motor vehicle safety exists in certain 2013-2014 MY Kia Optima vehicles equipped with the 2.4-liter Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and 2.0-liter GDI Turbo engines. The defect can result in a fire in your vehicle’s engine compartment, thus increasing the risk of injury. Our records indicate that you own or lease one of the potentially affected vehicles.
This is only an interim letter as we evaluate a remedy. The purpose of this letter is to keep you informed of Kia’s recall implementation plan. We will send you another letter when the remedy is available, and the repair will be performed at no cost to you. HOWEVER, PLEASE SEE THE “WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IN THE INTERIM” SECTION BELOW.
What Is The Problem?
The material of the low pressure fuel tube may deteriorate over time and develop a crack from exposure to heat generated within the engine compartment under certain circumstances. If the fuel tube develops a crack, a fuel smell and eventually a fuel leak can occur. Leaking fuel increases the risk of fire, thereby increasing the risk of injury.
What Should You Do In The Interim?
- If fuel smell is detected, please contact the closest authorized Kia dealership to have your vehicle towed to the dealer.
- To find your nearest dealer, visit kia.com and click the “Find Dealer” button in the upper right corner (“Dealers” on a mobile device). You can also use the QR code below with your mobile device to access this information (see the bottom of this letter for more information about QR code use):
What If You Have Already Paid To Have This Situation Corrected?
If you have incurred expense to remedy this issue prior to the date of this notice, you may have the opportunity to obtain reimbursement for that expense. You may submit your receipts online to Kia via the Owners section of www.kia.com or mail your receipts with a copy of the attached Request for Reimbursement form directly to Kia for review and consideration:
Consumer Assistance Center
Kia Motors America, Inc.
P.O. Box 52410
Irvine, CA 92619-2410
1-800-333-4542
Pursuant to the General Reimbursement Plan issued by Kia pursuant to Federal Regulation 49 CFR 573.13, Kia will use its best efforts to respond to your claim within sixty (60) days of receipt and at that time Kia may either accept or reject that claim or it may request more information to evaluate the claim.
Have You Changed Your Address Or Sold Your Kia?
If you have changed your home address, sold your Kia vehicle, or no longer own your vehicle, please complete the attached prepaid “Change of Address/Ownership” card and mail it to us. You can also contact the Consumer Assistance Center phone number listed above.
What If You Are A Vehicle Lessor?
Federal regulation requires that any vehicle lessor receiving this recall notice must forward a copy of this notice to the lessee within ten days.
What If You Have Other Questions?
If your dealer does not respond to your service request in a timely manner, we suggest that you call Kia’s Consumer Assistance Center at 1-800-333-4542. This number has TTY capability. If you still are not satisfied that we have remedied this situation without charge and within a reasonable amount of time, you may submit a complaint to the Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E., Washington, DC 20590; or call the toll free Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); or go to https://www.safercar.gov.
This action has been taken in the interest of your safety, and we regret any inconvenience this situation may cause you.
Sincerely,
Consumer Affairs Department
QR Code Use:
- A QR Code is a square, 2-dimensional barcode that can be read by mobile devices loaded with an appropriate barcode or QR Code Reader App. The app reads the barcode image and then launches/uploads the specific information the code contains, such as URLs, text, photos, videos.
- With a mobile device, download a QR Code Reader App. With many devices, you can do this through an app store or marketplace.
- Open the QR Code Reader App on your mobile device. The app will utilize your device’s camera. Center the code in the camera viewing area. With some apps, the URL or other information will automatically load when the code is recognized. For others, you may have to snap or take a picture of the QR code. Refer to the QR Reader Code App instructions.
SC187
| GROUP
Safety Recall Campaign | MODEL
2013-2014MY | |
| NUMBER
SC187 (Rev 2, 12/09/2020) | DATE
June 2020 | |
| SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN | ||
| SUBJECT:
LOW-PRESSURE FUEL FEED TUBE INSPECTION AND REPAIR/REPLACEMENT (SC187) | ||
NOTICE
This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area.
This bulletin provides the procedure to inspect and either repair or replace the low-pressure fuel tube assembly on some 2013-2014MY Optima (QF) vehicles produced at KMMG from November 15, 2012 through December 18, 2013. The material of the low-pressure fuel tube may deteriorate over time and develop a crack from exposure to heat generated within the engine compartment under certain circumstances. If the fuel tube develops a crack, a fuel smell and eventually a fuel leak can occur. A fuel leak increases the risk of a fire. Dealers are to inspect the low-pressure fuel tube for damage and/or leaking as outlined in this bulletin. If damage and/or leaking is found, the low-pressure fuel tube is to be replaced with a new one. If no damage or leaking is found, a heat-protective tape is to be installed at the connection between the low-pressure fuel tube and the fuel pump for added protection. Before conducting the procedure, verify that the vehicle is included in the list of affected VINs.
NOTICE
There is no charge to the vehicle owner for this repair. Under applicable law, you may not sell or otherwise deliver any affected vehicle until it has been repaired pursuant to the procedures set forth in this bulletin.
NOTICE
To assure complete customer satisfaction, always remember to refer to WebDCS Warranty Coverage (validation) Inquiry Screen (Service → Warranty Coverage → Warranty Coverage Inquiry) for a list of any additional campaigns that may need to be performed on the vehicle before returning it to the customer.
Printed TSB copy is for reference only; information may be updated at any time. Always refer to KGIS for the latest information.
Flowchart:
Inspection and Fuel Line Taping Procedure:
1. Open hood and remove engine cover.
Note: 2.4L GDI shown for demonstration purpose. Refer to the applicable Shop Manual on KGIS for more details and/or 2.0L-T application.
Video should be reviewed prior to inspection and repair.
2a. Locate the fuel line (A) connector and visually inspect for leak in the outlined area shown.
2b. If fuel line IS leaking, refer to page 5 to replace the fuel line.
2c. If fuel line is NOT leaking, proceed to step 3 for further inspection.
3a. Start the engine and allow it to idle.
3b. Place the test paper under the fuel line (A) connector area shown and check for moisture on the paper, indicating presence of a leak.
3c. If moisture is NOT present, turn the engine OFF and proceed to step 4 to tape and cable tie the fuel line.
3d. If moisture IS present, turn engine OFF and proceed to the fuel line ‘Replacement Procedure’ outlined on page 5.
4. On the fuse box located next to the air cleaner assembly, remove the 20A Fuel Pump relay (B).
5a. Disconnect the high-pressure fuel pump (C) electronic connector (D).
5b. Attempt to start the engine to relieve fuel system pressure.
6a. Place a clean rag underneath and disconnect the fuel line (A) from the high pressure fuel pump (C).
NOTICE
Perform the inspection in a welllighted shop or use bright flashlight during the inspection.
6b Carefully inspect the full circumference of the fuel line, inspecting for small cracks and attempt to rotate the quick connect fitting, if the quick connect rotates with medium effort, replace the fuel line.
If the internal green connector or secondary orange lock is damaged/broken, then replace the fuel line.
- If the fuel line is in good condition proceed to Step 7.
7. Using the supplied PET tape, tightly wrap the fuel line (A) in between the area shown below ten times (10x).
8a. Secure the tape to the fuel line with a cable tie (E) as shown.
8b. Reinstall the fuel line (A) to the highpressure pump. Ensure to insert fully to lock in place and confirm engagement.
8c. Re-connect the high-pressure fuel pump connector (D).
9a. Reinstall the fuel pump relay.
9b. Start the engine and allow it to idle.
9c. Confirm that no leak is present using test paper.
9d. Install the engine cover.
9e. Check for any DTC’s stored during the procedure.
Replacement Procedure:
NOTICE
Ensure that the engine is not running and the ignition is in the OFF position.
Vehicle will need to be lifted and lowered on a lift during this procedure.
Refer to the applicable Shop Manual on KGIS for more details and/or 2.0L-T application. Note: 2.4L GDI shown for demonstration purposes.
1. On the fuse box located next to the air cleaner assembly, remove the 20A Fuel Pump relay (A).
2. Remove the air cleaner assembly (B).
3a. Disconnect the high-pressure fuel pump (C) electrical connector (D).
3b. Attempt to start the engine to relieve fuel system pressure.
4. Place a clean rag underneath and disconnect the fuel line (E) from the highpressure fuel pump (C).
5. Remove/detach the three (3) upper fuel line (E) retaining brackets (2.4L shown).
Note: Fuel line bracket(s) routing for 2.0LT may differ.
6a. Raise vehicle on lift.
6b. Remove the two (2) bottom engine covers.
7. Remove the left (driver side) bottom cover.
8. Detach the front bottom fuel line guard/cover and lower as shown.
9a. Detach the fuel line (E) from the retaining bracket.
9b. Press the blue tabs to disconnect/release and remove the fuel line (E).
10. Install the new fuel line (F) in the reverse order of removal.
Note: Ensure fuel line is fully engaged.
11. Reinstall the fuel pump relay.
12. Start the engine and allow it to idle.
13. Confirm that no leak is present.
14. Install the engine cover.
15. Check for any DTC’s stored during the procedure.
AFFECTED VEHICLE RANGE:
| Model | Production Date Range |
| Optima (QF) | November 15, 2012 through December 18, 2013 |
REQUIRED PART:
REQUIRED TOOL:
| Tool Name | Tool Number | Figure | Comments |
| Test Paper | NWPGEN180 | Previously auto-shipped to dealers as part of SC172.
For order or replacement, contact Snap-on Business Solutions at (888) 542-1011 | |
| PET Tape | U1915BK20C | Auto-shipped to Dealers.
For order or replacement, contact Snap-on Business Solutions at (888) 542-1011 | |
| Cable Tie | CT4BK18-C (3M Hi-Temp) | Source Locally |
WARRANTY INFORMATION:
N Code: N99 C Code: C99
| Claim Type | ENG | Causal P/N | Qty. | Repair Description | Labor Op Code | Op Time | Replacement P/N | Qty. |
| R | 2.4L
2.0L-T | 31310
3Q900 | 0 | (SC187)
Fuel Line Inspection and Taping. | 201A02I0 | 0.3 M/H | N/A | 0 |
| 2.4L | (SC187)
Fuel Line Inspection and Replacement | 201A02R0 | 1.6 M/H | 31310 3Q901QQK | 1 | |||
| 2.0L-T | 31310 3Q101QQK |
Note: If necessary, use sublet code ‘X2’ for rental expense reimbursement (up to 3 days maximum) for fuel line replacement labor codes only. Use sublet code ‘X1’ with a maximum allowed amount of $0.20 for 3M cable tie reimbursement.
NOTICE
VIN inquiry data for this repair is provided for tracking purposes only. Kia retailers should reference SC187 when accessing the WebDCS system.
SC187 – 2013-2014 MY KIA OPTIMA LOW PRESSURE FUEL TUBE
SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN Q & A
June 8, 2020
| Q1. | What type of campaign is Kia conducting? |
| A1. | Kia is conducting a safety recall campaign on certain 2013-2014 my Kia Optima vehicles equipped with the 2.4liter Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and 2.0-liter GDI Turbo engines.
|
| Q2. | What vehicles are affected by the recall? |
| A2. | Certain 2013-2014 my Kia Optima vehicles equipped with the 2.4-liter Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and 2.0-liter GDI Turbo engines, manufactured at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG) from November 15, 2012 through December 18, 2013.
|
| Q3. | How many customer vehicles are affected by this recall? |
| A3. | Approximately 141,774 vehicles are affected by this recall.
|
| Q4. | What is the condition? |
| A4. | The material of the low pressure fuel tube may deteriorate over time and develop a rack from exposure to heat generated within the engine compartment under certain conditions. If the fuel tube develops a crack, a fuel smell and eventually a fuel leak can occur. Leaking fuel increases the risk of fire, thereby increasing the risk of injury.
|
| Q5. | Can you describe the recall campaign and fix? |
| A5. | Kia has instructed its dealers to inspect the low-pressure fuel tube for damage and/or leaking. If damage and/or leaking is found, the low-pressure fuel tube will be replaced with a new one. If no damage or leaking is found, a heat protective tape will be installed at the connection between the low-pressure fuel tube and the fuel pump for added protection. The repair work will be performed at Kia’s expense at no cost to the customer.
|
| Q6. | How will owners of the affected vehicles be notified? |
| A6. | Kia will send a follow-up letter to owners of the affected vehicles by first-class mail beginning on June 12, 2020, notifying them that the remedy repair is now available.
|
| Q7. | What should vehicle owners do when they receive the notification? |
| A7. | If fuel smell is detected, owners are to contact their closest authorized Kia dealership to have their vehicle towed to the dealer.
Upon receipt of the follow-up notification letter, owners are to contact their Kia
|
| Q8. | How was the issue discovered? |
| A8. | Through the regular monitoring of field information.
|
| Q9. | Have there been any deaths, injuries or accidents as a result of this condition? |
| A9. | No.
|
| Q10. | Will this cost vehicle owners any money? |
| A10. | No. The remedy repair will be performed at no cost to the owners.
|
| Q11. | What about customers who may have already paid to have the low pressure fuel tube replaced? |
| A11. | If you have incurred expense to remedy this issue prior to the date of this notice, you may have the opportunity to obtain reimbursement for that expense. You may submit your receipts online to Kia via the Owners section (Contact Kia) of www.kia.com OR mail your documentation with the completed Request for Reimbursement Form included with this letter directly to Kia for review and consideration at the following address:
Consumer Assistance Center
|
| Q12. | How long will the repair take? |
| A12. | The time required to perform the repair will be approximately 2 to 3 hours. However, the vehicle may be needed longer, and therefore, we recommend scheduling a service appointment to minimize inconvenience.
|
| Q13. | Are there any restrictions on an owner’s eligibility? |
| A13. | No.
|
| Q14. | If a customer has an immediate question, where can they get further information? |
| A14. | The customer can contact their local Kia dealership or call Kia’s Consumer Assistance Center at 1-800-333-4KIA (4542), Monday through Friday, 5 AM to 6 PM Pacific Standard Time, or via the internet @ www.kia.com (Owner’s Section).
|
SC187
FOLLOW-UP NOTICE
June 8, 2020
Attention: All Dealer Principals
This Is A Follow-Up Notice To Advise That The Remedy Repair Is Now Available.
Kia Motors America, Inc., pursuant to the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act, is conducting a Safety Recall Campaign on certain 2013-2014 MY Kia Optima vehicles equipped with the 2.4-liter Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and 2.0-liter GDI Turbo engines manufactured at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG). The material of the low pressure fuel tube may deteriorate over time and develop a crack from exposure to heat generated within the engine compartment under certain circumstances. If the fuel tube develops a crack, a fuel smell and eventually a fuel leak can occur. A fuel leak increases the risk of a fire.
Your Service Manager was sent a copy of the owner notification letter and a Q&A guide for recall questions both of which describe the issue and information on how to access the list of affected vehicles.
Kia will mail follow-up notices to the affected vehicle owners beginning on June 12, 2020.
NHTSA ADVISORY: It is a violation of Federal law for a dealer to deliver a new motor vehicle covered by this notification under a sale or lease until the defect is remedied.
What Should You Do
Please make certain the appropriate personnel in your dealership are familiar with the details of this recall campaign to ensure proper responses to customer inquiries and requests to have the campaign performed on their vehicles.
LEGAL PRIVACY LIABILITY NOTICE: Pursuant to the terms of the Dealer Sales and Service Agreement and the Gramm-Leach-Bliley federal consumer privacy act, you are required to keep confidential any and all information and documents provided to you by Kia Motors America, Inc. or generated by you in the conduct of carrying out work under that Agreement regarding Kia vehicle purchasers and owners, including but not limited to warranty claim information. Kia dealers may use such owner information for the sole purpose of conducting and performing this safety recall campaign, and for no other purpose.
Your prompt attention in completing this recall campaign is appreciated. If you have any questions, please contact your Kia District Parts & Service Manager.
Sincerely,
Kia Service Department
Enclosures
SC187
FOLLOW-UP NOTICE
June 8, 2020
Attention: All Kia Parts & Service Managers
This Is A Follow-Up Notice To Advise That The Remedy Repair Is Now Available.
Kia Motors America, Inc., pursuant to the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act, is conducting a Safety Recall Campaign on certain 2013-2014 MY Kia Optima vehicles equipped with the 2.4-liter Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and 2.0-liter GDI Turbo engines manufactured at Kia Motors
Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG). The material of the low-pressure fuel tube may deteriorate over time and develop a crack from exposure to heat generated within the engine compartment under certain circumstances. If the fuel tube develops a crack, a fuel smell and eventually a fuel leak can occur. A fuel leak increases the risk of a fire.
The Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that provides Vehicle Repair Procedures, Affected VIN Production Range, and Warranty Claim Information will be posted during the week of June 8, 2020 on the Kia Global Information System (KGIS) at www.kiatechinfo.com.
PARTS INFORMATION – As the need for Low Pressure Fuel Tube is expected to be low, a valid VIN will be required for order entry.
Enclosed you will find a copy of the follow-up owner notification letter and a Q&A Guide for recall questions, both of which describe the issue. Note that any vehicle owners who have already paid for repairs due to this condition can submit a request for reimbursement online via the Owner’s Section of www.kia.com.
Kia will mail follow-up notices to the affected vehicle owners beginning on June 12, 2020.
Also, please make certain the appropriate personnel in your dealership are familiar with the details of this recall to ensure proper responses to customer inquiries and requests to have the recall performed on their vehicles. This Safety Recall represents an opportunity for your service department to deliver an exceptional service experience (e.g. flexible service appointment process, car wash and vacuum and timely service).
NHTSA ADVISORY: It is a violation of Federal law for a dealer to deliver a new motor vehicle covered by this notification under a sale or lease until the defect is remedied.
LEGAL PRIVACY LIABILITY NOTICE: Pursuant to the terms of the Dealer Sales and Service Agreement and the Gramm-Leach-Bliley federal consumer privacy act, you are required to keep confidential any and all information and documents provided to you by Kia Motors America, Inc. or generated by you in the conduct of carrying out work under that Agreement regarding Kia vehicle purchasers and owners, including but not limited to warranty claim information. Kia dealers may use such owner information for the sole purpose of conducting and performing this safety recall campaign, and for no other purpose.
If you have any questions, please contact your Kia District Parts and Service Manager.
Sincerely,
Kia Service Department
Attachments
SC187
IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL
(Follow-Up Notice)
(NHTSA Recall Number: 20V-100)
This notice applies to your vehicle: (Insert VIN)
June 12, 2020
Dear Kia Optima Owner:
Kia has identified a defect in your vehicle which relates to motor vehicle safety
This notice is a follow-up letter sent to you in accordance with the requirements of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Kia Motors has decided that a defect which relates to motor vehicle safety exists in certain 2013-2014 MY Kia Optima vehicles equipped with the 2.4-liter Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and 2.0- liter GDI Turbo engines. The defect can result in a fire in your vehicle’s engine compartment, thus increasing the risk of injury. Our records indicate that you own or lease one of the potentially affected vehicles.
What Is The Problem?
The material of the low pressure fuel tube may deteriorate over time and develop a crack from exposure to heat generated within the engine compartment under certain circumstances. If the fuel tube develops a crack, a fuel smell and eventually a fuel leak can occur. Leaking fuel increases the risk of fire, thereby increasing the risk of injury.
Kia Will Inspect And If Necessary, Replace the Low-Pressure Fuel Tube At No Cost To You.
Kia has instructed its dealers to inspect the low-pressure fuel tube for damage and/or leaking. If damage and/or leaking is found, the low-pressure fuel tube will be replaced with a new one. If no damage or leaking is found, a heat protective tape will be installed at the connection between the low-pressure fuel tube and the fuel pump for added protection. The repair work will be performed at Kia’s expense at no cost to you. The actual time required to perform the repair will be approximately 2 to 3 hour(s). However, your vehicle may be needed longer, and, therefore, we recommend scheduling a service appointment to minimize inconvenience. Please contact your dealer for an exact estimate of how long they may need your vehicle for this repair.
What Should You Do?
- In the interest of the safety of your passengers, as well as your own safety, please immediately contact your authorized Kia dealer to arrange for the recall repair to be conducted.
- If fuel smell is detected, please contact the closest authorized Kia dealership to have your vehicle towed to the dealer.
- To find your nearest dealer, visit kia.com and click the “Find Dealer” button in the upper right corner (“Dealers” on a mobile device). You can also use the QR code below with your mobile device to access this information (see the bottom of this letter for more information about QR code use):
What If You Have Already Paid To Have This Situation Corrected?
If you have incurred expense to remedy this issue prior to the date of this notice, you may have the opportunity to obtain reimbursement for that expense. You may submit your receipts online to Kia via the Owners section of www.kia.com or mail your receipts with a copy of the attached Request for Reimbursement form directly to Kia for review and consideration:
Consumer Assistance Center
Kia Motors America, Inc.
P.O. Box 52410
Irvine, CA 92619-2410
1-800-333-4542
Pursuant to the General Reimbursement Plan issued by Kia pursuant to Federal Regulation 49 CFR 573.13, Kia will use its best efforts to respond to your claim within sixty (60) days of receipt and at that time Kia may either accept or reject that claim or it may request more information to evaluate the claim.
Have You Changed Your Address Or Sold Your Kia?
If you have changed your home address, sold your Kia vehicle, or no longer own your vehicle, please complete the attached prepaid “Change of Address/Ownership” card and mail it to us. You can also contact the Consumer Assistance Center phone number listed above.
What If You Are A Vehicle Lessor?
Federal regulation requires that any vehicle lessor receiving this recall notice must forward a copy of this notice to the lessee within ten days.
What If You Have Other Questions?
If your dealer does not respond to your service request in a timely manner, we suggest that you call Kia’s Consumer Assistance Center at 1-800-333-4542. This number has TTY capability. If you still are not satisfied that we have remedied this situation without charge and within a reasonable amount of time, you may submit a complaint to the Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E., Washington, DC 20590; or call the toll free Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); or go to https://www.safercar.gov.
This action has been taken in the interest of your safety, and we regret any inconvenience this situation may cause you.
Sincerely,
Consumer Affairs Department
QR Code Use:
- A QR Code is a square, 2-dimensional barcode that can be read by mobile devices loaded with an appropriate barcode or QR Code Reader App. The app reads the barcode image and then launches/uploads the specific information the code contains, such as URLs, text, photos, videos.
- With a mobile device, download a QR Code Reader App. With many devices, you can do this through an app store or marketplace.
- Open the QR Code Reader App on your mobile device. The app will utilize your device’s camera. Center the code in the camera viewing area. With some apps, the URL or other information will automatically load when the code is recognized. For others, you may have to snap or take a picture of the QR code. Refer to the QR Reader Code App instructions.
SC187
2013-2014MY Kia Optima Low Pressure Fuel Tube Chronology Basis of Safety Defect Determination 573.6(c)(6)
| November 19, 2019 | During visit by Kia Motors America, Inc. (KMA) engineer to Kia dealer as part of normal field monitoring, KMA learns from dealer technician about an issue related to fuel leaking from a cracked low pressure fuel tube in a Kia Optima vehicle. |
| November 20, 2019 – Mid December 2019 | KMA reviews field data and identifies other instances of fuel leaking from the low pressure fuel tube. KMA begins to collect parts in the field to evaluate cause of potential fuel leaking issue. KMA collects and delivers five (5) low pressure fuel tubes to Kia Motors Corporation (KMC) for its evaluation and analysis. |
| January 2020 – February 3, 2020 | KMC receives parts and conducts investigation into potential cause of cracking condition but is unable to identify cause. |
| February 4, 2020 – February 13, 2010 | KMA collects and ships seven (7) additional fuel tubes to KMC for its investigation and analysis. |
| February 18, 2020 | KMC makes decision to conduct recall due to potential risk of fire, although exact cause is not known. Eight (8) customer complaints of fuel leaking potentially related to cracked low pressure tube. No known fires, accidents or injuries due to fuel leaking from cracked low pressure fuel tube. |
2 Affected Products
Vehicle
| MAKE | MODEL | YEAR |
| KIA | OPTIMA | 2013-2014 |
19 Associated Documents
Miscellaneous Document – REQUEST FOR REIMBURSEMENT FORM – SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN SC187 – 2013-2014 MY OPTIMA LOW PRESSURE FUEL TUBE
RMISC-20V100-9931.pdf 54.908KB
Recall Acknowledgement
Chronology
RMISC-20V100-2064.pdf 80.746KB
Defect Notice 573 Report
RCLRPT-20V100-9561.PDF 212.821KB
Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc)- April 8, 2020 Attention: All Dealer Principals
Miscellaneous Document – SC187 – 2013-2014 MY KIA OPTIMA LOW PRESSURE FUEL TUBE SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN Q & A April 8, 2020
RMISC-20V100-4305.pdf 78.864KB
ISSUED Interim Owner Notification Letter(Part 577)
RIONL-20V100-5868.pdf 397.171KB
Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc)- April 8, 2020 Attention: All Kia Parts & Service Managers
Miscellaneous Document – SC187 – 2013-2014 MY KIA OPTIMA LOW PRESSURE FUEL TUBE SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN Q & A
RMISC-20V100-2430.pdf 118.011KB
Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc)- Dealer Principal Memo – Follow Up Notice
Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc)- Dealer Parts and Service Manager Memo
Recall 573 Report – Amendment 1
RCLRPT-20V100-9103.PDF 213.956KB
Remedy Instructions and TSB
RCRIT-20V100-1204.pdf 1793.131KB
Recall Quarterly Report #1, 2020-2
RCLQRT-20V100-3905.PDF 211.154KB
ISSUED Owner Notification Letter(Part 577)
RCONL-20V100-7387.pdf 155.54KB
Remedy Instructions and TSB
RCRIT-20V100-1521.pdf 1397.623KB
Recall Quarterly Report #2, 2020-3
RCLQRT-20V100-2125.PDF 211.268KB
Recall Quarterly Report #3, 2020-4
RCLQRT-20V100-9461.PDF 211.365KB
Remedy Instructions and TSB
RCRIT-20V100-4964.pdf 1411.11KB
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