2017–2018 Kia Optima Recall: These vehicles are equipped with a Voltage Protection Device (VPD)…
NHTSA campaign 18V161000 · Hybrid Propulsion System · filed Mar 8, 2018 · verified Jul 30, 2026
The defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Optima hybrid vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with a Voltage Protection Device (VPD), designed to protect the high voltage battery module, that may activate inadvertently.
The risk
If the VPD activates while the vehicle is being operated in Electric Vehicle (EV) mode, there may be a loss of power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Check whether your specific vehicle is affected
Recall campaigns often cover only certain VIN ranges. Enter your VIN on the official NHTSA site to confirm whether your vehicle is included and whether the repair is still open.
Check VIN on NHTSA →The fix — what to do
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will remove the VPD switch and install two newly designed Battery Management Systems (BMS) that contain Overvoltage Protection Devices (OPDs), free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC162.
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Affected vehicles
Related recalls
More Kia Optima recalls
- 2010–2019 Kia Borrego and 11 other models — Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an…
- 2016–2018 Kia Optima and 3 other models — Trunk latch base may crack, preventing the opening of the…
- 2012–2013 Kia Optima — Right and left headliner plates may not be secured…
- 2013–2014 Kia Optima — Low pressure fuel hose may be damaged, or missing…
- 2013–2015 Kia Optima and 1 other model — Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic…
Other campaigns involving Kia vehicles
Source: NHTSA recall database, campaign 18V161000 (manufacturer number SC162). Data last verified Jul 30, 2026.