2023 Kia Sportage Center Muffler Emissions Campaign

Why This Matters

Kia America, Inc. is conducting a Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign, identified as SC239, to address a potential emissions non-compliance issue. Some 2023 Kia Sportage vehicles may be equipped with a center muffler that does not meet U.S. EPA regulations. This campaign is crucial because an out-of-specification Kia Sportage center muffler could lead to the vehicle emitting air pollutants above the legally mandated Federal and California emissions standards. These stringent regulations are established to safeguard public health and environmental quality from the dangers of air pollution.

What's Being Addressed

The campaign, designated SC239, applies to specific 2023 Kia Sportage vehicles. These are models equipped with 2.5L GDI engines and manufactured within a narrow timeframe: from April 23, 2022, through April 29, 2022. A total of approximately 198 Sportage vehicles are included, all of which were produced at a Kia assembly plant located in the U.S.

Manufacturer's Remedy

To resolve this, owners of the affected 2023 Kia Sportage vehicles are instructed to contact their authorized Kia dealer. The dealer will perform an inspection of the vehicle's center muffler. If this inspection reveals that the Kia Sportage center muffler does not meet the required U.S. regulations and specifications, it will be replaced with a compliant part. Kia has confirmed that this inspection and any necessary replacement will be completed at no cost to the customer.

Important Owner Information

Kia will begin notifying owners of the affected 2023 Kia Sportage vehicles via first-class mail on September 9, 2022. There are no eligibility restrictions for owners to participate in this service campaign. The actual time needed for a dealer to inspect the center muffler and, if required, perform the replacement is estimated to be less than one hour. However, due to potential variations in dealer work schedules, it is highly recommended that owners schedule an appointment to ensure prompt service.

Further Assistance

For any immediate questions or concerns regarding this Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign (SC239) for your 2023 Kia Sportage center muffler, customers can contact their local authorized Kia dealership. Alternatively, Kia's Customer Care Center is available at 1-800-333-4KIA (4542), Monday through Friday, 5 AM to 6 PM Pacific Time. Information can also be found on the owner's section of www.kia.com.

NHTSA ID: 10219364