Lifetime
Warranty Coverage
2011 – 2019
Covered Model Years
6
Active Recall Campaigns
1-800-333-4542
Kia Consumer Affairs
Eligible Kia Sportage Model Years
The following Kia Sportage 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 Sportage
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 Sportage Engine Failure Symptoms
These are the most frequently reported symptoms of Theta II engine failure in the Kia Sportage. Document any of these symptoms with dates and photos before contacting the dealer.
Knocking or ticking noise from the engine
Oil pressure warning light on dashboard
P1326 or P0011 diagnostic trouble codes
Engine stalling or sudden power loss
Excessive oil consumption
Engine vibration at idle or under acceleration
Burning oil smell from engine bay
Engine failure or seizure
Why Kia Dealers Deny Sportage Warranty Claims
These are the most common reasons dealers give for denying Kia Sportage engine warranty claims — and why each one can be challenged.
"KSDS not installed" — Invalid per Kia's April 2022 policy update. KSDS is not required for bearing failure warranty coverage.
"No maintenance records" — Magnuson-Moss Act applies. Kia bears the burden of proving maintenance caused the failure.
"Vehicle over mileage" — The Theta II settlement has NO mileage limit. Lifetime coverage applies.
"Aftermarket air filter used" — Kia must prove the aftermarket part directly caused the engine failure.
"Dealer inspection found no defect" — Request a second opinion and a written explanation of the inspection methodology.
Watch: Kia Sportage Engine Recall Explained
Carl Adams from Carl's Garage walks through exactly what Kia Sportage 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 Sportage Engine Recall — Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The 2011–2019 Kia Sportage with the Theta II 2.0L or 2.4L GDI engine has a documented manufacturing defect involving metal debris contamination of the oil supply, leading to premature bearing wear and engine failure. This is covered under a class action settlement.
Stop driving immediately if the knock is severe. Document the noise with a video. Take it to a Kia dealer and request a Prior Approval (PA) submission to Kia Consumer Affairs. If denied, use our response generator to fight back.