2016–2018 Kia Optima, 2017–2018 Kia Optima Hybrid, 2017–2018 Kia Optima PHEV and 1 other model Recall: Trunk latch base may crack, preventing the opening of the trunk from the…
NHTSA campaign 23V594000 · Latches/locks/linkages · filed Aug 24, 2023 · verified Jul 30, 2026
The defect
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."
The risk
A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
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
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.
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.nhtsa.gov.
Affected vehicles
Related recalls
More Kia Optima recalls
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- 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…
- 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 23V594000 (manufacturer number SC278). Data last verified Jul 30, 2026.