2023 Kia Sportage VECI Label Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign

Why This Matters

Kia has identified that some 2023 Kia Sportage vehicles were manufactured with an incorrect Vehicle Emission Control Information (VECI) label. This label is critical for several reasons, including proper vehicle maintenance, accurate emissions inspections, and correct ordering of engine and engine management-related parts.

The VECI label also contains a specific code that guides testing facilities on the correct emissions test procedures. An incorrect Kia Sportage VECI label can cause your vehicle to fail an emissions inspection, such as a "SMOG check," even if the vehicle technically meets all applicable emissions standards. Both the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) consider the under-hood VECI label an essential component of state emissions testing.

What's Being Addressed

Kia America, Inc. is conducting a Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign, identified as SC285, to address the incorrect VECI label on affected 2023 Kia Sportage vehicles. This campaign aims to ensure all vehicles have the correct label for compliance and proper maintenance. The campaign specifically targets the replacement of the Vehicle Emission Control Information (VECI) Label.

Owner Action

Kia has provided a replacement VECI label along with detailed instructions for its installation. Owners have two primary options to resolve this issue for their Kia Sportage VECI label:

• Self-Installation: You can cover the existing VECI label under the hood of your vehicle with the new label provided in the campaign letter. Detailed instructions for installation are attached to the notice. This method allows for immediate correction at your convenience.
• Dealership Service: If you prefer not to install the label yourself, you can contact an authorized Kia dealership to schedule a service appointment. The actual label replacement process is estimated to take approximately 10 minutes. However, the total service time may vary based on the dealer's work schedule, so scheduling an appointment is recommended to minimize inconvenience. Remember to bring your campaign notice and the replacement label with you to the dealership to ensure a smooth process.

Important Warnings

It is crucial to address this issue to avoid potential problems. Failure to have the correct Kia Sportage VECI label installed could lead to your vehicle failing an emissions inspection, such as a "SMOG check," when required by state law. This could also be interpreted as a lack of proper vehicle maintenance, potentially affecting your vehicle's full protection under the emissions warranty. Having this service update performed will help ensure your vehicle's full protection under the emissions warranty.

How to Find a Dealer or Get More Information

To locate your nearest authorized Kia dealer, visit www.kia.com and click the "Find Dealer" button, typically found in the upper right corner of the website. On a mobile device, this might appear as "Dealers." You can also use the QR code provided in the original communication for quick access to dealer information using your mobile device.

Should you have any questions regarding this Emissions Service Campaign or if your dealer does not respond to your service request in a timely manner, you can contact Kia's Customer Care Center at 1-800-333-4542. Customer service representatives are available Monday through Friday, from 5 AM to 6 PM Pacific Time. Alternatively, you can find more information in the owner's section of www.kia.com.

NHTSA ID: 10248987