2018 Kia Niro

The vehicle experienced a sudden powertrain failure while driving. A certified Kia dealership diagnostic scan confirmed active Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P17ED (Engine Clutch System) and a physical hydraulic clutch fluid leak around the transmission housing area. These symptoms match the exact criteria of NHTSA Safety Recall 23V534 (Kia Campaign SC276) for the Hydraulic Clutch Actuator (HCA). The manufacturer's defective component leaked fluid, causing direct consequential failure of the internal clutch and transmission assembly. Kia is refusing to remedy this safety campaign failure at 100% zero cost to the consumer, violating federal safety recall mandates by attempting to charge 50% of the repair cost ($3,708.29) under the guise of 'goodwill assistance'.

Reported

Jul 2026

Incident date

Jun 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Year/Make/Model: 2018 Kia Niro Hybrid Mileage at time of incident: approximately 69,000 Component: Hybrid Propulsion System / Powertrain My 2018 Kia Niro Hybrid has experienced five recurring "Hybrid System Failure — Turn Off Engine" errors occurring without warning while the vehicle was being operated. Each occurrence rendered the gas engine ineffective in moving the vehicle, creating an immediate safety hazard. The driver was forced to quickly navigate to safety each time. The vehicle has been brought to the dealership four times for this issue — February 25, May 4, May 15, and May 30, 2025. On May 30 the dealer performed a repair they stated would resolve the problem. The vehicle was returned the same day. On May 31, one day later, the error occurred again. The defect remains unresolved after four service visits. Out-of-pocket towing and rental car costs have been incurred each time. I believe this defect is related to the hydraulic clutch actuator issue covered under Kia recall SC276 and the active class action lawsuit (FeganScott v. Kia/Hyundai). The recall repair has not resolved the problem.

Reported

Jun 2026

Incident date

Feb 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I am writing to request assistance regarding a recurring issue with Recall SC276. Approximately two years ago, I had the hydraulic clutch actuator (HCA) replaced by a dealership as part of this recall. Since then, the vehicle has been driven only 10,000 miles, bringing the total mileage to about 45,000. The vehicle recently broke down, and the dealership confirmed that the replacement HCA has failed. Despite this being the same part addressed by the recall, the dealership quoted $1,700 for the repair, and Kia has declined to cover the cost. I believe Kia should be responsible for this replacement, as the recalled part was intended to provide a long-term solution to a safety issue. I would appreciate any help you can provide in ensuring Kia covers the cost of this repair.

Reported

May 2026

Incident date

May 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The vehicle just shut down as I exited. The power and gas pressure decreased. Pulled over to see if my hybrid battery was defective or drained. It wasn’t. A notification popped up and said “Hybrid Control System or Low Voltage DC/DC Converter, Contact dealer for service. Finally got it towed to Kia of Valencia the next day and they said it was “Hydraulic Clutch Actuator” and they want charge me $2200 to fix it. But looking up the part, it says there’s a recall for that exact problem.

Reported

May 2026

Incident date

May 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

On April 21, 2026, Go Kia Renton performed an oil change on my 2018 Kia Niro Touring (VIN). The car was in perfect condition just two weeks earlier — North Seattle Transmission did a full service on April 6, 2026 at 283,649 miles with no issues noted. Later that night while driving, the red oil light flashed. I pulled over immediately and called AAA. AAA towed the vehicle from Belltown [XXX] ) at 12:11 AM on April 23 to my house then at 9:14 AM towed it straight to Go Kia Renton. The AAA driver found oil leaking all over his tow truck. The car now has a dead battery and is showing Hybrid Control System / Low Voltage DC/DC Converter and Engine Control System codes. This appears to be a sudden engine seizure caused by oil loss shortly after dealer service. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported

May 2026

Incident date

Apr 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I am reporting a safety issue involving my 2018 Kia Niro hybrid related to the Hydraulic Clutch Actuator (HCA), which is currently subject to a recall addressing fire risk. My vehicle has already had the recall remedy performed, which consisted of inspection and installation of a lower-amperage fuse. The dealer confirmed that the actuator is leaking fluid but did not replace it because there was no evidence of PCB contamination, which is the condition required under the recall. However, the vehicle is now experiencing significant drivability issues that create a safety hazard: Intermittent hesitation when accelerating from a stop Failure to properly engage the transmission, especially on inclines Engine revving without corresponding vehicle movement Delayed or inconsistent clutch engagement In one recent instance, the vehicle would not properly engage while attempting to move from a stopped position on an uphill incline, creating a hazardous situation where the vehicle could not reliably move when needed. This condition appears to be caused by loss of hydraulic pressure due to the leaking actuator, even though it has not yet reached the stage of PCB contamination described in the recall. The current recall remedy does not address this failure mode. Instead, it allows a known defective component to remain in service until it reaches a condition that presents a fire risk. In the meantime, the vehicle can experience loss of propulsion under normal driving conditions. I believe this represents a separate safety defect or an incomplete remedy, as loss of propulsion, especially during acceleration from a stop or on an incline, can significantly increase the risk of a crash. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate whether the current recall adequately addresses all safety risks associated with the defective Hydraulic Clutch Actuator, including drivability and loss-of-propulsion conditions that occur prior to PCB contamination.

Reported

Apr 2026

Incident date

Jan 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact stated that when the vehicle was shifted into reverse(R), the vehicle failed to respond. The vehicle was turned off and restarted to reset the transmission, but the vehicle failed to respond while in reverse(R). The vehicle was shifted to drive(D) but failed to respond. The vehicle was shifted into park(P). The vehicle was towed to a local dealer. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the transmission fuse and the hydraulic clutch actuator had failed and that the transmission needed to be replaced. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Power Train). The manufacturer was contacted and the contact was informed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 175,000.

Reported

Mar 2026

Incident date

Feb 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Everything is falling off the bottom of this vehicle

Reported

Feb 2026

Incident date

Feb 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Ever since the purchase of the car I been bringing this attention to the dealership but they always turn down and avoiding the situation at first electrical issues like turning signals goes in and out window stop rolling up sometimes had to try for hours just rolls up fog light check light headlight and turn signal all together went out in the beginning started to work in and out and now window turn signal front both and one fog light now won't come back and front Air Flap won't operate that's from the few months into the car check light and also in the beginning car transmission always felt rough not gears smoothly change I brought this attention but they always ask change the transmission fluid but it's was a new car felt that but never bothered looking into but over time got worst now it hit you when picking up like gear just stuck and your whole body gets that shock like someone hit you from the back every time and when comes to slow stopping making crying sound. It's like I made the biggest mistake why I decided to buy the new car because I know old cars have problems but this is Brand New I bought shouldn't have problems, and from it's was new always heard the click sound when move from complete stop like go from on red light or from any stop position click hear it from front never worried but was not feeling good why but now all of sudden it's unbearable sound when turning or making u turn loud like anything when acceleration but not in straight drive asked dealership about all the problems I been getting since was a brand new car the answered I got it's now not in the warrenty will cost to check wow what a rip off and when I use to say those problems when was in the warrenty they would say it's not the major issue and yes one time one of the tech specialists I mentioned he you know what he said made me sick we would try something but warrenty is BS it's a piece of *** we never get money easily so this is why they always refuse to take this seriously wow

Reported

Jan 2026

Incident date

May 2019

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Driver heated seat shorted out and caused burn to leg. System has not been repaired, will wait to hear from Kia Customer Affairs prior to decision to repair. I was injured by this and have concerns about the safety of the vehicle, will this happen again if a new grid is installed. Kia dealership confirmed that the grid showed high resistivity but also claimed since nothing is melted I couldn't have been burned. The vehicle has only been inspected by the dealership currently. there were and are no indicators, warning lights or messages about the failure available. Kia dealerships claims there no way to tell with the electrical systems.

Reported

Jan 2026

Incident date

Dec 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

1 injuries

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact stated that occasionally driving at various speeds, the vehicle hesitated to stop as intended while the brake pedal was depressed, and the brake pedal was depressed to the floorboard. The message "Stop - Regenerative Braking Failure" was displayed. The contact restarted the vehicle as a temporary repair; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and a 91400 fuse Kit was installed, and various repairs were performed. The vehicle was repaired out-of-pocket; however, approximately one month later, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the same local dealer where it was diagnosed; however, the cause of the failure was not determined. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken back to the same local dealer, where it remained. Upon further investigation, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign: 23V534000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed; however, was the claim was denied. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

Reported

Dec 2025

Incident date

Oct 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Just before Hurricane Helene, I brought my 2018 Kia Niro Hybrid to Asheville Kia (NC) after noticing coolant loss and white smoke coming from the exhaust. The dealership charged me $1,400 for a repair involving new gaskets and the EGR cooler. Within a month, the same symptoms returned. I returned to the dealership and explained I believed the original issue had not been resolved. I had done research and found reports of similar problems in other Niro Hybrids. I specifically mentioned the coolant heat exchanger as a possible source, but they dismissed my input and pushed a $3,500 muffler system replacement. I asked for diagnostic proof, and they initially showed a photo of the muffler with no visible leak. Later, they claimed a "small leak" was found during a pressure test — but the symptoms didn’t align. I then took the vehicle to John’s Kwik Lube in Spruce Pine, NC, where they confirmed the coolant heat exchanger was faulty — exactly what I had originally suspected. They repaired it with a simple workaround for under $200, and I’ve had no issues since. The faulty component (coolant heat exchanger) is not available for inspection, but I retained diagnostic records, pressure test results, and screenshots of the dealership’s estimate. I also documented that Kia’s quote system does not allow access to past service quotes, so I had to screenshot everything manually. The only symptoms were coolant loss and white smoke from the tailpipe, beginning shortly before the storm in September 2018, and recurring until the final repair later that year. The problem was confirmed by an independent mechanic, and partially acknowledged (though misdiagnosed) by the Kia dealership. No police or insurance inspection was involved. This situation posed a safety risk due to reduced visibility, potential engine overheating, and exposure to coolant vapors, especially during uphill driving. The issue is known among Kia owners and appears to be a recurring design flaw in the Niro.

Reported

Sep 2025

Incident date

Sep 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I'm 59 years old never have an accident or had to slam breaks on the guy in front of me slammed his breaks on so I did the same time the brake pedal was to the floor the car didn't even slowed down and not even skid marks hit him then air bags deployed the car was totaled no one got hurt thank God I do t know if any other kia cars had this problem I got real lucky

Reported

Apr 2025

Incident date

Apr 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Crash

An alert to "check regenerative brakes" popped up on the dashboard screen. My younger sister who is borrowing our car, told me it now takes her much longer to come to a stop when braking. She's having to brake really early to stop on time but traffic and animals will not always allow for that. From what I am reading online, this is a common issue due to faulty 12v battery or a loose ground from said battery. The only way to fully engaged the conventional brakes (without the regenerative brakes) is to switch the car into neutral and then brake. This is a major safety issue that Kia should address. Maybe they need to address the battery issue, but they definitely should address the fact that you have to shift into neutral to brake properly when the regenerative brakes arent working right. Seems like a common sense plan to have it default to conventional brakes when the others are having issues or at least provide a way to turn off regenerative brakes.

Reported

Apr 2025

Incident date

Apr 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Known issues with wiring cause check engine light to come on and also now the door open sensors to stay on. Just paid $800 for a known issue to the wiring that a Kia technical bulletin wss issued for, however the cost was left to the customer.

Reported

Jan 2025

Incident date

Jan 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Hydraulic Clutch Actuator recall was previously done and only a fuse was changed as the inspection only determined the actuator itself did not have an active code. 4 months has gone by and now the actuator has now failed.

Reported

Jan 2025

Incident date

Jan 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Internal combustion engine coolant leaking out exhaust. The heat exchanger located in the catalytic converter system is leaking, leading to the ICE coolant draining. This leads to the engine overheating, and damage. Signs of the issue started with the coolant level lowering quickly, then the car heater stopped working. This confirmed by an independent mechanic.

Reported

Oct 2024

Incident date

Oct 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Reported

Oct 2024

Incident date

Jul 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the vehicle failed to shift out of neutral while shifting the gear shift lever. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and the DTC code: P090B:73 error was retrieved. In addition, the contact stated that an unknown message was displayed. The local dealer was contacted and informed the contact that the failure was related to an unidentified recall; however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 136,663.

Reported

Oct 2024

Incident date

Sep 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

hybrid battery warning paid out of pocket for towing, car still at the dealership, loss of income and wages, been treated with awful customer services, and paying out of pocket. Car went in on June 25

Reported

Jul 2024

Incident date

Jun 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the vehicle was shuddering and failed to start. The battery charge was low. The HEV warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer informed the contact that a field expert would be determining the cause of the failure. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 140,000.

Reported

Jun 2024

Incident date

May 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Coolant leak within the heat exchanger of the catalytic converter. Increases likelihood of overheating and engine damage. Especially when driving long distances, or within heavy traffic. Increases emissions as burning off coolant within exhaust.

Reported

Mar 2024

Incident date

Mar 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I received KIA letter about the recall SC276 for HCA issue around 1/15/24. I brought my 2018 Kia Niro PHEV to Kia Dealer in San Jose. They inspected and concluded that the vehicle is safe with the recall SC276. However, they did not replace the fuse as stated in Kia's recall instructions. Ten days later, I was on the road, slowing down at the intersection and the car suddenly lost power, the Dashboard show the message for 'EV System failed'. My battery was fully charged at work, which is 2 miles away. My gas tank was full and I couldn't start my car again. Lucky enough, I was 1/4 mile away entering a Freeway. I couldn't imagine what would happen if I was on Freeway. Police stopped by, put road warning while I scrambled to get a tow truck. An hour later, they was able to move my car off the road. The first Kia Dealer is 3 miles away. They, however, refused to service my car because the other Dealer in San Jose already checked my car for recall before. I had to tow my car 36 miles to San Jose Kia Dealer. I asked them to check again if it was the issue with the recall. Kia Dealer diagnosed and concluded that the 'Relay Assembly Power' unit, Fuse-High Voltage failed for whatever reason. I asked for picture of the damage part and haven't received them. The Dealer said they still have system message which Kia's Engineers haven't figured out why. I am on the 3rd week without a car. I don't have a car to go to work and pick up my kids. I am renting a car at $300/week for my family and work tasks.

Reported

Feb 2024

Incident date

Jan 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Reported

Feb 2024

Incident date

Feb 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Reported

Feb 2024

Incident date

Feb 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Fire warning recall notice issued in July 2023. Follow up with both Kia and with Kia dealership that I purchased the vehicle from still says that there is no fix to this problem. THE PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD (PCB) IN THE HYDRAULIC CLUTCH ACTUATOR (HCA) MAY BECOME CONTAMINATED WITH FLUID. A FLUID-CONTAMINATED PCB MAY LEAD TO AN ELECTRICAL SHORT CIRCUIT, THEREBY INCREASING THE RISK OF AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE WHILE DRIVING. With the potential of a fire risk while driving, why is the manufacturer not required to remedy this situation in a more timely manner. It has been over 6 months since the recall was issued yet the manufacturer is allowed to continue producing vehicles but not required to repair those vehicles that may be affected and cause significant risks to the driver at potentially other property. NHTSA should mandate inspection and repairs of recalled vehicles which should take a priority to the manufacturing process. Vehicles with recalls should not be allowed to go without repair especially when accidents are imminent and life-threatening injuries may occur. Additionally, trying to get an appointment with a local Kia dealer where I purchased the car has a wait of well over a month for them to even inspect the car. Between Kia not taking care of their vehicles and their dealers not being able to service vehicles, NHTSA really needs to evaluate this and create remedies for the safety of the vehicle and the driver. Waiting over 6 months for a recall is frustrating, dangerous, and unacceptable. Manufacturers need to take responsibility for recall notices and repairs in a much more timely manner. Safety over profit should be a priority. On a personal note. I purchased my Kia Niro hybrid new in 2018. It is one of the best cars that I have purchased in my '76 years. I have had virtually no problems with the vehicle and was a big proponent of Kia, but their lackadaisical attitude on recall repairs as really put a damper on my respect for their management and

Reported

Jan 2024

Incident date

Jul 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the vehicle was towed to the dealer for servicing however, while the vehicle was being inspected, the HCA was performed. The vehicle was diagnosed with a failed hydraulic clutch actuator (HCA). The contact was informed that the HCA needed to be replaced. The dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 48,000.

Reported

Jan 2024

Incident date

Nov 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Reported

Jan 2024

Incident date

Jan 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I was driving myself and two passengers on a highway at night in the rain. I was using the adaptive cruise control and was maintaining speed when i went through a puddle and I think the car hydroplaned a little. A warning sign flashed up on the dash that said something towards "deactivating cruise control" - i am not sure of the exact warning. I've had a warning similar, im not sure if its the exact same, when the adaptive cruise control turns off in traffic and it slows down and turns itself off. But when it turned off this time after the puddle I tried to take control of the car and the gas pedal was completely unresponsive. Pedal to the metal, nothing. I was, thankfully, the only car in sight, so i was able to change lanes and check my brakes, which worked, and coasted/braked my way off the shoulder. I turned the car off and then back on and the car and pedal responded normally.

Reported

Jan 2024

Incident date

Dec 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Reported

Jan 2024

Incident date

Jan 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Reported

Jan 2024

Incident date

Jan 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

In July 2023, Kia identified a defect that can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire while driving; namely that the printed circuit board in the hydraulic clutch actuator may become contaminated with fluid and lead to an electrical short circuit. To date, there is still no remedy available. I am filing this complaint for your assistance in ensuring the company provides a remedy within a reasonable time.

Reported

Jan 2024

Incident date

Jul 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact's wife owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at approximately 50 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where an unknown part was replaced. The contact stated that on another occasion while his wife was driving 35 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to the same dealer where it was diagnosed that the junction box needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50.

Reported

Nov 2023

Incident date

Nov 2018

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Nov 2023

Incident date

Oct 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

This recall specifically says my car it's a fire risk because of this recall. I have the HEV warning light on in my car on just as described in the recall notice but no Kia dealer wants to repair my car until the recall notice has a remedy from corporate. It's been over 2 months and still no actual recall remedy found. My car is still a fire risk with the HEV warning light on and the same kia dealerships don't want to fix my car due to no remedy. This is insane! Why did I buy this car? I spent 19k dollars in this car and right now is completely unusable. I would like my money back but it's too late for that. I'm going to contact a lawyer now since the company has identified a recall problem but it's not fixing it. I'm hoping the NHTSA can help me somehow. I'm giving my lawyer a copy of this complaint as well.

Reported

Nov 2023

Incident date

Nov 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2018 Kia NIRO. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number 23V534000 (Power Train} however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had stated that a warning light had been illuminated. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 160,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Nov 2023

Incident date

Jul 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Nothing has happened yet, but I am very concerned about my car catching on fire due to the recall notice I received. I want it fixed ASAP!

Reported

Nov 2023

Incident date

Oct 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Oct 2023

Incident date

Jul 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Oct 2023

Incident date

Oct 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Got the recall letter but kia dealer and customer service have no info about when the remedy will be available. This is a major issue as I need to sell the car now to use the cash for other urgent matters. Dont even think the dealer will give a decent wholesale amount or take them on a trade. It is lowering the value and decreasing the demand as its a safety hazard for the vehicle which isnt fair . How long are they legally allowed to drag this out with no compensation to all those waiting ? Is there a class action suit ? Thank you for your help ! [XXX] [XXX] or cell [XXX] . INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported

Oct 2023

Incident date

Sep 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

On March 28, 2023 the vehicle HEV warning light came on. I called the dealership where I was informed they did not have any mechanics available to look at it until August. No one to work on Hybrid. I then took it to a mechanic shop, And I was informed to take it to the dealer. I could not drive the vehicle. I called KIA, Temple Hills back, I was told if you tow the vehicle here it will just sit. April 8, 2023 had it towed to another shop, the mechanic stated he thought it was the battery, which I was informed hybrid has 3 batteries, to check with the dealer to see if they had them, or could order one. Called the dealership Temple Hills, stathat they had never heard of a battery for that car. I was told to call back next week, after he spoke with the parts dept. manager. I called back a week later, and was told they knew nothing about a Kia Niro, could not help. The mechanic looked for a battery at other shops, ebay. The one I Paid 600.00dollars for did not work. After being there for 1 month. I called Kia dealership Bowie Md. On June 6, 2023 spoke with Jacob, the advisor. The vehicle was towed there, Jacob refused to give me any updates on the vehicle after 1 month being there, just sitting. I would call him trying to get updates, he informed me that they only had one mechanic, just a whole lot of nothing, the vehicle could catch on fire. Another month passed and I went to the dealership, along with my brother. Jacob was not answering my calls/returning them. Vehicle just sitting there. Jacob, then said the mechanic that worked on the hybrid was out for surgery, he would be in touch. I asked for the Kia Corporate number, which I received. I contacted Kia, corporate on July 13, 2023, spoke with them several times, informing them that the vehicle was not operable, and I was still making car notes/ paying insurance on a vehicle that I was not driving. At the dealership now for 3 months. Jacob, not communicating I can email you documents/fax, all paperwork.

Reported

Oct 2023

Incident date

Mar 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to restart. The hybrid system warning was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the vehicle was diagnosed, but the cause of the failure could not be determined. The vehicle was then towed to a second dealer, Elgin Kia (909 E Chicago St, Elgin, IL 60120), where the cause of the failure could not be determined. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 91,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Oct 2023

Incident date

Jul 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact received a recall notification of the NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. An undisclosed dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Oct 2023

Incident date

Jul 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine revved up. The contact stated that the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle was slow to respond. Eventually, the vehicle shifted into gear and started to move. The contact stated that the check HEV and turn off engine error messages were displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that a faulty engine clutch activator needed to be replaced. The mechanic informed the contact that the vehicle was not covered under a recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Power Train). The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.

Reported

Oct 2023

Incident date

Oct 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. An undisclosed dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Oct 2023

Incident date

Jul 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH, the vehicle started shaking and vibrating abnormally. The contact stated that the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The contact stated that the message "Engine Overheating - Request Service Now" and "Engine Control System" was displayed. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that coolant had intruded into the engine block and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The contact attempted to contact the manufacturer but was unable to reach a Representative. The failure mileage was approximately 74,000.

Reported

Sep 2023

Incident date

Sep 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

HEV warning light on, car monitor says possible MCU failure. I just bought this car. This car is in perfect condition, no accidents all service actions in order but the warning lights make it seem like the electric engine is about to fail.

Reported

Jun 2023

Incident date

Jun 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The car can slow down suddenly in the middle of traffic even if I accelerate. The engine has a problem according to the mechanics who was trying to fix my car twice without succes. The car does not hold coolant liquid for more than 15 minutes. It looks like the coolant is staying somewhere in the engine. It overheats too. Yes the car is available for inspection upon request. It's a high risk because the car can suddenly slow down in the middle of traffic or when leaving a light turned green. And the last time I drove it there a weird smell. Yes, an independant service center located at College Park Maryland informed me about the issue. The vheicle or compenent has not been inspected yet by the manufacturer, police, insurance representative or others. When the car starts slowing down in the middle of traffic, I feel a kind of vibration first on the gas peddale and comes up the engine light. This happened last month

Reported

Apr 2023

Incident date

Mar 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

On Kia Niro, there is a part called the Exhaust Heat Recovery System (EHRS). This part pumps coolant into the exhaust system. If this particular piece fails, coolant in then pumped into the exhaust, burned up, and exits through the tail pipe. This piece failed on my car, which lead to coolant being burned in the tailpipe without my knowledge, which ultimately lead to no coolant in the engine and overheating and breaking down on the highway. After a full engine replacement, my car is still rapidly going through coolant. I imagine that this could lead to a car fire. I still have the faulty part installed in my car, however I am looking to replace it asap. While not 100% confirmed, my dealer is "pretty sure" that piece is what is causing the rapid loss of coolant in my car. This piece has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police or insurance representatives. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms to alert me to this problem. I only found out about this piece and its failure rate after a full engine replacement.

Reported

Jan 2023

Incident date

Oct 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

On 2/15/2022 around 10:00AM, I was driving my vehicle as normal. Noticed brake lights ahead, I was about 3 car lengths back, which I always try to drive since I am on the road a lot and I prefer not to have an accident. Well this time, I put my foot on the brake as normal and the vehicle felt like brakes were not even working, pushed harder with my foot and waited for that pumping feeling (which I have felt before) and literally nothing! Once I was about a car lengths away, I knew my vehicle was not stopping so I sat up straight and leaned back before the air bags deployed in my face. I have since come home and found several complaints from other 2018 Kia Niro owners that have made a complaint about this on other forums and with the NHTSA and Carcomplaints.com - This issue has been ignored by Kia about braking system.

Reported

Feb 2022

Incident date

Feb 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Crash

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Niro hybrid electric vehicles previously recalled under recall 18V-666. The Main Relay within the Power Relay Assembly (PRA) may have inadequate connections between its contacts, causing increased electrical resistance, which can overheat the rear seats.

Risk: Overheated rear seats increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the PRA and replace either the PRA or the Main Relay, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 9, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC256. This recall supersedes NHTSA recall number 18V-666. Vehicles already repaired under the previous recall will need to have the new remedy completed.

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Niro hybrid electric vehicles. The Main Relay within the Power Relay Assembly (PRA) may have inadequate connections between its contacts, causing increased electrical resistance.

Risk: The increased electrical resistance can overheat the rear seat which is above the PRA, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the Power Relay Assembly (PRA) for damage. If no damage is found, the main relay will be replaced. If damage is found, the PRA will be replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began November 23, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC168.

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2022 Niro and 2018-2022 Niro Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. Fluid may leak into the printed circuit board inside the hydraulic clutch actuator, which can result in an engine compartment fire.

Risk: A fire increases the risk of injury.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the hydraulic clutch actuator as necessary and install a new fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 29, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC276.