Recall campaign

Recall 18V161000: Hybrid Propulsion System

Official campaign-level recall information with affected vehicle links and a VIN-first buyer check.

NHTSA recall 18V161000 data summary graphic
18V161000campaign
2affected model pages
08/03/2018recall date

Reviewed June 2026 from NHTSA recall campaign records. Carchieve is independent and not affiliated with any vehicle manufacturer or government agency.

Recall summary

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.

Safety 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.

Recall remedy

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.

What to compare next

After checking this safety campaign, compare the same vehicle against manufacturer service bulletins, model-level owner complaint patterns and the used-car recall checklist.

Frequently asked questions

What is recall campaign 18V161000?

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.

How do I know if this recall applies to my car?

Use the exact 17-character VIN. A campaign can affect only certain production ranges, trims or equipment configurations.

Are recall repairs free?

Safety recall remedies are generally performed by franchised dealers at no charge when the exact VIN is affected and the remedy is available.

Check the exact VIN before you buy

Model-level pages show public safety patterns. A full VIN report helps confirm the exact vehicle, decoded specs, recall applicability and buyer checks.

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