Recall 21V844 affects 10,731 2017-2018 Kia Optima Hybrid and Optima PHEV vehicles for premature engine bearing wear. Repair is free at any franchised Kia dealer.
Kia is recalling 10,731 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima PHEV vehicles because connecting rod bearings inside the engine can wear too soon and damage the engine. A damaged engine can raise the risk of a fire or stall the vehicle, increasing crash risk; Kia dealers will complete the repair free of charge.
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What's wrong?
The connecting rod bearings in the 2017-2018 Kia Optima Hybrid and Optima PHEV sit deep inside the engine. They support the connecting rods as the crankshaft turns, with a thin film of oil keeping metal parts separated under load. When the bearings stay smooth and lubricated, the engine can turn without the rods grinding against the crankshaft.
On affected vehicles, those bearings wear too early. As the bearing surface breaks down, the engine loses the tight clearance it needs, and the rod starts striking instead of rotating cleanly. That wear can damage the engine. If a connecting rod breaks, it can puncture the engine block and cause a fire.
Owners can notice an abnormal knocking noise from the engine, reduced motive power, or an oil pressure warning light. A burning smell or smoke is also a warning sign.
Who's affected?
Covers the Optima Hybrid and Optima PHEV across the 2017 and 2018 model years, both tied to the engine assembly.
| 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid | Engine |
|---|---|
| 2018 Kia Optima Hybrid | Engine |
| 2017 Kia Optima PHEV | Engine |
| 2018 Kia Optima PHEV | Engine |
| Units affected | 10,731 |
A matching year and model does not confirm inclusion. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific sedan is included.
What's the safety risk?
Engine damage can raise the risk of a fire or cause an engine stall, increasing crash risk. If you hear abnormal knocking, lose power, see the oil pressure warning light, smell burning, or see smoke, stop driving and call a Kia dealer. Repair is free at any franchised Kia dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2017-2018 Kia Optima Hybrid or Optima PHEV is included in this recall.
- Contact a franchised Kia dealer to schedule the free engine inspection, engine replacement if bearing damage is found, and KSDS software update.
- Bring the recall notice if Kia mailed one. If not, reference recall number 21V844 when you call.
- Call Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542 with questions about scheduling or recall coverage.
- Avoid driving farther if the engine stalls, knocks, or loses power before the appointment; contact the Kia dealer for instructions.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Kia technician inspects the engine for bearing damage. If damage is found, the engine is replaced. The technician also installs a software update with the Knock Sensor Detection System. Repairs, including parts and labor, are free under the recall. Kia's General Reimbursement Plan covers qualifying repair expenses owners paid before the recall notice. Bring invoices, receipts, and related repair paperwork to the service desk or contact Kia customer service for claim instructions.
| Reimbursement | Reimbursement available |
|---|
Timeline
| October 29, 2021 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| November 22, 2021 | Dealer notification began |
| November 22, 2021 | Dealer notification ended |
| November 29, 2021 | Owner notification mailed |
| November 29, 2021 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 21V844?
Recall 21V844 covers 10,731 2017-2018 Kia Optima Hybrid and Optima PHEV vehicles with engine connecting rod bearings that can wear early and damage the engine. Kia dealers will inspect the engine, replace it if bearing damage is found, and install KSDS software for free.
What should I do if my 2017-2018 Kia Optima Hybrid or Optima PHEV is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific vehicle is included in recall 21V844. If it is, contact a franchised Kia dealer to schedule the engine inspection and KSDS software update. Reference recall 21V844 and Kia recall SC218 when you call. The repair is free.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires Kia to repair the defect at no cost. A franchised Kia dealer will inspect the engine, replace the engine if bearing damage is found, and install the KSDS software update free of charge.
What is the safety risk?
The safety risk is engine damage that can increase fire risk or cause an engine stall, increasing crash risk. If your VIN is included, arrange the free Kia dealer inspection and software update, and ask the dealer what to do if the engine is making noise or running poorly.
What if I bought my Kia Optima Hybrid or Optima PHEV used?
The free repair still applies. Federal recall law follows the vehicle, not the original owner. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific Optima Hybrid or Optima PHEV is included, then call a franchised Kia dealer with recall 21V844 and Kia recall SC218.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/21V844000 |
|---|---|
| Kia customer service | 1-800-333-4542 |
| NHTSA recall # | 21V844 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 21V844000 |
Source documents
-
Download Recall Document (PDF) (PDF) - Download Recall Document (PDF) (PDF)
- Download Quarterly Report (PDF)
- Download Misc. Document (PDF)
- Download Recall Investigation Document (PDF) (PDF)
- Download Owner Notification Letter (PDF)
- Download Owner Notice (PDF)
- Download Recall Report (PDF)
- Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 20, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →