Lifetime
Warranty Coverage
2011 – 2019
Covered Model Years
6
Active Recall Campaigns
1-800-333-4542
Kia Consumer Affairs
Eligible Kia Optima Model Years
The following Kia Optima model years are covered under the Theta II engine settlement and recall campaigns. If your vehicle is listed here, you are entitled to warranty coverage regardless of mileage.
No Mileage Limit
The Theta II settlement provides a lifetime warranty on the engine short block assembly with no mileage restrictions. Even vehicles with 200,000+ miles are eligible.
Active Recall Campaigns for Kia Optima
These NHTSA recall numbers apply to your vehicle. Reference these in all communications with the dealer and manufacturer.
20V750
NHTSA Recall Campaign
20V751
NHTSA Recall Campaign
21V077
NHTSA Recall Campaign
21V078
NHTSA Recall Campaign
NHTSA 953
NHTSA Recall Campaign
NHTSA 954
NHTSA Recall Campaign
Common Kia Optima Engine Failure Symptoms
These are the most frequently reported symptoms of Theta II engine failure in the Kia Optima. Document any of these symptoms with dates and photos before contacting the dealer.
Engine knocking or ticking noise at startup or under load
Oil pressure warning light illuminated
Check engine light with codes P1326 or P0011
Engine stalling or sudden loss of power
Burning oil smell or excessive oil consumption
Vehicle entering limp mode or reduced power mode
Engine vibration or rough idle
No-start condition after engine knock
Why Kia Dealers Deny Optima Warranty Claims
These are the most common reasons dealers give for denying Kia Optima engine warranty claims — and why each one can be challenged.
"No KSDS update installed" — This is NOT a valid denial reason. Kia's April 2022 policy explicitly removed KSDS as a prerequisite for bearing failure claims.
"Insufficient maintenance records" — Even if you can't produce every receipt, the Magnuson-Moss Act prohibits denying warranty claims solely due to missing records unless Kia can prove the lack of maintenance caused the failure.
"Engine did not enter limp mode" — Limp mode is not required for coverage. Bearing damage can occur and be documented without triggering limp mode.
"Aftermarket oil filter or parts used" — Kia must prove the aftermarket part caused the failure, not just that it was used.
"Outside warranty period" — The Theta II settlement provides LIFETIME coverage on the short block assembly with no expiration date.
Watch: Kia Optima Engine Recall Explained
Carl Adams from Carl's Garage walks through exactly what Kia Optima owners need to know about the engine recall, how to fight warranty denials, and what steps to take right now.
Video by Carl's Garage on YouTube — subscribe for the latest Kia & Hyundai recall updates.
Kia Optima Engine Recall — Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The 2015 Kia Optima with a 2.0L or 2.4L Theta II GDI engine is covered under the settlement. You are entitled to a lifetime warranty on the engine short block assembly with no mileage limit.
Yes. The Theta II settlement provides lifetime coverage with no mileage limit. Whether your Optima has 80,000 or 280,000 miles, you are still eligible for warranty coverage if the failure is related to the Theta II defect.
This is one of the most common denial tactics. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act prohibits Kia from denying your claim solely because you lack maintenance records unless they can prove the lack of maintenance caused the failure. Use our response generator to create a professional rebuttal citing this law.
P1326 is the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) trouble code. It indicates the KSDS software detected abnormal engine knock. This code is strong evidence of the Theta II defect and should support your warranty claim, not be used against you.
Use our free KSDS Checker tool — enter your VIN and it will tell you if recall 953/954 has been completed on your Optima. You can also call Kia Consumer Affairs at 1-800-333-4542 with your VIN.