With its handsome looks and an impressive bevy of features for the money, the 2015 Kia Optima set itself apart from the usual mid-sized sedan fare. When new, buyers could choose their 2015 Optima in one of five trim levels, from the standard LX to the top-of-the-line SXL Turbo. Powertrain options include the standard 192-horsepower 2.4-liter I4 engine and an optional 2.0-liter turbo I4 with 274 horsepower at the ready.
As the last year before its substantial redesign in 2016, the 2015 Kia Optima also represented a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers. The midsize sedan’s track record for safety is just as impressive, with the Optima earning a 5-star overall safety score from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.
How Recalls Affect Your Vehicle
Recalls can happen to any vehicle, and the 2015 Kia Optima is no exception. Manufacturers will often recall one or more vehicles in its lineup to correct various issues that could potentially affect the vehicle’s performance, longevity and/or safety. For instance, a defective airbag can trigger a vehicle recall due to increased risk of serious injury or worse.
How to Find Recall Information
Whenever there’s a vehicle recall, manufacturers are required to notify registered owners via first-class mail within 60 days. The NHTSA also provides information on recalled vehicles, along with a search feature to help owners narrow down recall information to a specific vehicle. You can also contact the vehicle manufacturer directly to find out more about current and previous recalls for your vehicle.
Some vehicle history reports will also list information on any recalls involving your vehicle. You can even find out if those repairs have already been carried out by a previous owner.
Current Recall Information
While some vehicles have multiple recalls to their nameplate, the 2015 Kia Optima comes with just one issued from the NHTSA. The following information not only sheds some light on the recall, but also how repairs are made once the issue is pinpointed and diagnosed.
High Pressure Fuel Pipe May Leak
NHTSA Recall ID: 18V907000
Recall Date: December 19, 2018
Components Involved: Fuel system
Certain 2015 Optima models may suffer a fuel leak in the high-pressure fuel pump pipe that links the fuel pump outlet to the rest of the engine. Poor alignment or damage caused by previous engine repairs and/or replacement procedures can cause a fuel leak within the engine bay area. Such a leak near a major heat source could increase the likelihood of an engine fire and potentially lead to serious injuries or worse.
Your local dealer will check the existing fuel pipe for leaks and other signs of damage. If the fuel pipe is damaged in any way, the dealer will source a new fuel pipe at no cost and provide its replacement free of charge.
What to Do When Faced With a Recall
An ongoing vehicle recall can have a serious impact on the safety, performance and reliability of your vehicle. Whenever you receive information about a vehicle recall, it’s important to have your vehicle checked as soon as possible. Ignoring a recall could put you and other occupants at an increased risk of serious injury or even death.
In most cases, you’ll receive a notice from the manufacturer informing you of any upcoming recalls, along with information on what to do to ensure your vehicle receives the proper fixes. For certain recalls, including those involving airbags and other safety-critical equipment, the manufacturer may even warn you against driving the vehicle until repairs are made. Your dealer may provide a loaner car as your vehicle undergoes repairs.
