Is the 2018 KIA Optima safe to drive?

The 2018 KIA Optima has 1 open safety recall. While the vehicle may still be driven, owners should contact an authorized dealership to schedule free repairs for any outstanding recalls. Some recalls, especially those classified as critical or high severity, may pose significant safety risks.

What is the LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH recall for the 2018 KIA Optima? (Campaign #23V594000)

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Rio, 2016-2018 Optima, 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. The trunk latch base may crack, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release." A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury. Dealers will replace the trunk latch base subassembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC278.

NHTSA Campaign 23V594000 Recall Details

Component

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH

What Happened

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Rio, 2016-2018 Optima, 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. The trunk latch base may crack, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."

Risk if Unfixed

A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.

Free Fix

Dealers will replace the trunk latch base subassembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC278.

Campaign 23V594000

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH

Affected Vehicles