Lifetime
Warranty Coverage
2018 – 2021
Covered Model Years
4
Active Recall Campaigns
1-800-333-4542
Kia Consumer Affairs
Eligible Kia Stinger Model Years
The following Kia Stinger 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 Stinger
These NHTSA recall numbers apply to your vehicle. Reference these in all communications with the dealer and manufacturer.
21V077
NHTSA Recall Campaign
21V078
NHTSA Recall Campaign
NHTSA 953
NHTSA Recall Campaign
NHTSA 954
NHTSA Recall Campaign
Common Kia Stinger Engine Failure Symptoms
These are the most frequently reported symptoms of Theta II engine failure in the Kia Stinger. Document any of these symptoms with dates and photos before contacting the dealer.
Engine knocking or rod knock under acceleration
Oil pressure warning light at idle or low RPM
P1326 code or engine management warning
Loss of power or boost under hard acceleration
Excessive oil consumption (turbo models)
Engine stalling at highway speeds
Burning oil smell from exhaust or engine bay
Engine failure after high-performance driving
Why Kia Dealers Deny Stinger Warranty Claims
These are the most common reasons dealers give for denying Kia Stinger engine warranty claims — and why each one can be challenged.
"Performance modifications void warranty" — Kia must prove the modification caused the specific failure, not just that modifications exist.
"Oil change intervals exceeded" — Magnuson-Moss Act applies. Kia must prove the interval directly caused the bearing failure.
"KSDS not installed" — Not a valid reason per Kia's April 2022 policy.
"Turbo-related failure not covered" — The short block assembly is covered regardless of whether a turbo is involved.
"Driver abuse" — Kia must provide specific evidence of abuse, not just a general claim.
Watch: Kia Stinger Engine Recall Explained
Carl Adams from Carl's Garage walks through exactly what Kia Stinger 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 Stinger Engine Recall — Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The 2018–2021 Kia Stinger with the 2.0L Theta II Turbo GDI engine is covered under the settlement and associated recall campaigns. The short block assembly has lifetime warranty coverage.
This is a common tactic with Stinger owners. However, Kia must provide specific evidence that your driving caused the failure, not just that the car is performance-oriented. The Theta II defect is a manufacturing issue, not a driver-caused issue.
Not automatically. Kia must prove that track use directly caused the specific failure. The Theta II defect is a manufacturing defect that exists regardless of how the car is driven. Consult a consumer protection attorney if Kia uses track use as a denial reason.