2013–2015 Kia Optima, 2014–2015 Kia Sorento Recall: Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU)…
NHTSA campaign 20V519000 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic · filed Aug 27, 2020 · verified Jul 30, 2026
The defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.
The risk
If the HECU short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.
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 inspect the HECU for leaking brake fluid and replace the HECU if necessary, free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside and away from other vehicles and structures until the recall repair is completed. The recall began October 20, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC197.
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 20V519000 (manufacturer number SC197). Data last verified Jul 30, 2026.