2023 Kia Sportage Center Muffler Emissions Campaign SC239

Why This Matters

Kia has identified that some 2023 Kia Sportage vehicles, specifically those equipped with 2.5L GDI engines and manufactured between April 23, 2022, and April 29, 2022, may have been fitted with a center muffler that does not meet U.S. EPA regulations. This non-compliant center muffler could lead to the release of air pollutants exceeding Federal and California emissions standards. These standards are crucial for protecting public health and welfare from the dangers of air pollution.

What's Being Addressed

This Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign (SC239) focuses on the center muffler component of the exhaust system. The campaign targets 2023 Kia Sportage models equipped with 2.5L GDI engines. The issue is a manufacturing deviation where the installed center muffler may not meet the required emissions specifications, leading to a potential violation of US EPA regulations.

Manufacturer's Remedy

Dealers will inspect the center muffler on affected 2023 Kia Sportage vehicles. If the muffler's specifications do not meet US regulatory requirements, it will be replaced with a compliant part. This service is part of a voluntary emissions campaign and will be performed at no cost to the owner. The technical service bulletin detailing repair procedures, affected VIN ranges, and warranty claim information was posted on the Kia Global Information System (KGIS) on September 7, 2022.

What Owners Should Know

Owner notification letters for this campaign were mailed on September 9, 2022. It is important for owners to have this campaign performed to ensure their vehicle meets emissions standards and to address the 2023 Kia Sportage center muffler issue.

For owners in California, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington, a "Proof of Correction Card" will be provided upon completion of the campaign. This card is essential for vehicle registration renewal in these states, as they require completion of emissions campaigns prior to renewal. Owners should retain this card as proof.

Important Information for Dealers

Kia America, Inc. has provided comprehensive information to dealers, including a copy of the owner notification letter and a Q&A guide. Samples of the "Vehicle Emissions Recall Proof of Correction Cards" and under-hood campaign labels are available. The "Proof of Correction Cards" and under-hood campaign labels are specifically for California and S.177 State dealers and can be ordered through the Parts Distribution Center (PDC).

NHTSA ID: 10219354