Key Takeaway
Trunk Emergency Release May Fail/FMVSS 401 by Kia America, Inc. was recalled on August 25, 2023. 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 K...
Trunk Emergency Release May Fail/FMVSS 401
Description
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."
Injuries / Consequence
A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
Remedy
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.
Products Affected
Vehicle
VehiclesRelated Recalls
Front Seat Back Frames May Fail
February 24, 2026
Instrument Panel Display Failure/FMVSS 101, 138
January 27, 2026
Blank Instrument Panel Screen/FMVSS 101
December 18, 2025
Fuel Tank May Leak
November 18, 2025
Incorrect Spare Tire/FMVSS 110
October 31, 2025
Fire from HVAC Wiring Harness
September 26, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this recall still active?
Check the status badge at the top of this page. "Ongoing" means the recall is still active and you should follow the remedy instructions. "Completed" or "Terminated" means the recall process has concluded, though the safety issue remains relevant for any unrepaired products.
How do I check if my product is affected?
Compare the model number, lot code, serial number, or date range listed in the recall notice with the information on your product's label or packaging. For vehicles, check your VIN at NHTSA.gov/Recalls.
What remedy is available for this recall?
The listed remedy for this recall is: 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 numb...
Where can I find the original recall notice?
This recall was issued by NHTSA. You can view the original notice using the link provided above.