Kia is recalling 36,248 Stingers and K900s in the United States over fears that a pipe feeding oil to the turbocharger could suffer heat damage, allowing the flammable liquid to leak onto a hot surface and combust.
The problem affects 2019-2020 Kia K900s and 2018–2022 Stingers (as well as a single 2023 Stinger) equipped with the 3.3-liter turbocharged V6 and was first identified in June. The automaker received a report from its home market, Korea, in which a driver saw smoke coming from the engine compartment of their vehicle.
In December 2023, Kia North America received a report of a fire emanating from the engine compartment of a 2018 Stinger while it was being driven. Fortunately, the driver did not come to harm, and the automaker is not aware of any crashes or injuries as a result of this problem. However, it is aware of 25 incidents that may have stemmed from this concern.
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In its analysis of the fire, Kia determined that the oil feed pipe on the left side of the turbocharger can deteriorate over time as a result of its proximity to the exhaust manifold and the radiant heat coming off it. That can lead to melting, cracking, and, ultimately, an oil leak.
Owners of affected Stingers and K900s are advised to be on the lookout for white smoke, a burning smell, or an oil leak coming from the engine compartment. In addition to an oil pressure warning light, there may be signs that the vehicle is experiencing this issue.
Owners may also want to keep an eye out on their mailbox, as Kia plans to start notifying K900 and Stinger owners of a recall campaign on April 26. To remedy this issue, a Kia technician will replace the left-hand turbocharger oil feed pipe and hose assembly with one that is made of a different, more heat-resistant material.
