Recall 21V862 covers 53 2020-2021 Kia Stinger vehicles with fuel-gauge software that shows inaccurate readings. Repair is free at any franchised Kia dealer.
Kia is recalling 53 2020-2021 Stinger vehicles because a software error in the instrument cluster can show an inaccurate fuel gauge reading. An incorrect gauge can let the vehicle unexpectedly run out of fuel and stall, increasing crash risk; Kia dealers will update the instrument cluster software free of charge.
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What's wrong?
The instrument cluster in a 2020-2021 Kia Stinger is the display panel in front of the driver. It shows speed, warning lights, and the fuel gauge. The fuel gauge is supposed to translate fuel-level information into a clear reading so the driver knows how much fuel remains.
On affected Stinger vehicles, the instrument cluster assembly has a software logic or calibration error. That error lets the fuel gauge show an amount of fuel that does not match the fuel actually left in the tank. The corrected software is meant to make the fuel gauge reflect the remaining fuel accurately.
There is no warning sign before failure. The problem is the reading itself, so an owner can see a normal-looking gauge while the displayed fuel level is wrong.
Who's affected?
The same instrument-panel assembly is named for both model years.
| 2020 Kia Stinger | instrument panel |
|---|---|
| 2021 Kia Stinger | instrument panel |
| Units affected | 53 |
A matching year and model does not confirm inclusion. Check your VIN to confirm whether this recall applies to your specific sedan.
What's the safety risk?
An inaccurate fuel gauge can leave the vehicle out of fuel without the driver expecting it. If the engine stalls in traffic, the loss of power increases the risk of a crash. There is no warning sign before the gauge reading proves wrong, so keep fuel level conservative until the software update is complete. Repair is free at any franchised Kia dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2020-2021 Kia Stinger is included in this recall.
- Contact your nearest franchised Kia dealer to schedule the free instrument-cluster software update that corrects the inaccurate fuel gauge reading.
- Bring the recall notice if Kia mailed one. If not, reference recall number 21V862 when you call.
- Refuel before the gauge gets low until the software update is complete.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Kia technician updates the instrument cluster software so the fuel gauge reads correctly. The software update and labor are free under the recall. If you already paid for a repair tied to this fuel gauge software issue, Kia's reimbursement plan covers documented repair expenses already incurred. Bring your repair paperwork and receipts to the service desk, or contact Kia customer service with the documents if the dealer asks you to submit them directly.
| Reimbursement | Reimbursement available |
|---|
Timeline
| November 5, 2021 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| December 7, 2021 | Dealer notification began |
| December 7, 2021 | Dealer notification ended |
| December 10, 2021 | Owner notification mailed |
| December 10, 2021 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 21V862?
Recall 21V862 covers 53 2020-2021 Kia Stinger vehicles with instrument cluster software that can show an inaccurate fuel gauge reading. The vehicle can run out of fuel and stall unexpectedly, increasing crash risk. Kia dealers will update the software for free.
What should I do if my 2020-2021 Kia Stinger is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific Stinger is included in recall 21V862. If it is, contact a franchised Kia dealer to schedule the instrument cluster software update. Reference recall number 21V862 or Kia recall SC219 when you call.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires the manufacturer to repair the defect at no cost. Kia dealers will update the instrument cluster software free of charge, regardless of where you bought the vehicle.
What is the safety risk?
The fuel gauge can show an inaccurate reading. If the vehicle runs out of fuel unexpectedly, it can stall and increase crash risk. Confirm your VIN, then schedule the free software update with a franchised Kia dealer.
When did Kia notify owners?
Kia mailed owner notification letters on December 10, 2021. If you bought the Stinger used or never received the letter, the VIN still decides whether the free recall repair applies to your vehicle.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/21V862000 |
|---|---|
| Kia customer service | 1-800-333-4542 |
| NHTSA recall # | 21V862 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 21V862000 |
Source documents
-
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 →