Your vehicle's engine compartment has a potential fire risk due to a problem with the engine compartment.
Risk if Unfixed
If this issue isn't fixed, an engine compartment fire can happen while driving, which could lead to injury.
Free Fix
Kia will inspect your vehicle, check for fuel and oil leaks, test the engine, and make any necessary repairs, including a new engine if needed, all free of charge. They'll also update the software in your vehicle to prevent future problems.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2013 Sorento, 2012-2015 Forte and Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, 2014-2015 Soul, and 2012 Sportage vehicles. An engine compartment fire can occur while driving.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Original — Remedy
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine compartment for fuel and/or engine oil leaks, perform an engine test and make any repairs, including engine replacement, as necessary, free of charge. In addition, Kia dealers will update the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software, free of charge. The recall began January 27, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC200.
The engine in your Kia Soul is the part that powers your vehicle. Certain models from 2012-2016 with a 1.6L engine could have a problem with the catalytic converter, which helps clean the exhaust gases.
Risk if Unfixed
If the catalytic converter gets damaged, it could cause your engine to stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In the worst case, a broken connecting rod could let engine oil leak into the exhaust system, where it could catch fire.
Free Fix
Your Kia dealer will update the engine control unit to prevent overheating, and replace the catalytic converter if it's damaged. If the engine is also damaged, it'll be replaced at no cost to you. The repair is free, and you should schedule it as soon as you get the recall notice.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Kia Soul vehicles equipped with 1.6L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines. High exhaust gas temperatures may damage the catalytic converter, possibly resulting in abnormal engine combustion and damage to one or more of the engine's pistons and possible piston connecting rod failure.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
Piston damage may result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash. A broken connecting rod may puncture the engine block allowing engine oil to escape. The leaking oil may contact the exhaust, increasing the risk of a fire.
Original — Remedy
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will upgrade the Catalytic Overheating Protection Engine Control Unit logic to prevent overheating of the catalytic converter. In addition, the catalytic converter will also be replaced if it has been damaged. Depending on the extent of any damage, the engine may also be replaced, free of charge. The recall began April 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC176.