319,000-Plus Kia Optima, Rio Sedans Recalled for Cracked Trunk Latch
Kia’s third major recall in August stems from an issue with the life-saving emergency trunk release feature in the brand’s Optima and Rio sedans. The issue affects approximately 319,400 vehicles.
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Affected vehicles include model-year 2016-18 Optimas and model-year 2017-18 Optima Hybrids and Optima Plug-In Hybrids, as well as model-year 2016-17 Rios. The trunk latch base subassembly in these vehicles may crack, preventing the trunk from opening from the inside. A person inside the trunk could become trapped, increasing the risk of injury.
To fix the issue, dealers will replace the subassembly for free. Kia will begin sending owner notification letters Oct. 19, but those with further questions in the meantime can call the automaker at 800-333-4542 (recall number SC278), the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s vehicle-safety hotline at 888-327-4236, or visit its website to check your vehicle identification number and learn more.
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