2023 Kia Sportage Center Muffler Emissions Campaign

Why this matters

Kia has identified that some 2023 Kia Sportage vehicles may be equipped with a center muffler that does not comply with U.S. EPA regulations. This non-compliant muffler could lead to the vehicle releasing air pollutants that exceed 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 targets certain 2023 Kia Sportage vehicles. Specifically, it applies to models equipped with 2.5L GDI engines that were manufactured between April 23, 2022, and April 29, 2022. The campaign focuses on the inspection and, if necessary, replacement of the vehicle's center muffler to ensure it meets all applicable emissions standards. Owners of affected vehicles will receive a notification letter describing the issue and the necessary steps.

What owners should know

Owners of affected 2023 Kia Sportage vehicles will receive an official notification letter, which was scheduled to be mailed on September 9, 2022. This letter will also include a Q&A Guide to help answer common questions about the campaign. It is important for owners to understand that this is a voluntary emissions service campaign designed to ensure their vehicle complies with environmental regulations.

Dealer Instructions and Important Warnings

Kia has issued specific instructions to dealers regarding this campaign. Dealers are required to perform the necessary repairs on any affected vehicles in their inventory prior to selling the vehicle to a retail customer. This ensures that all new owners receive a compliant vehicle from the outset. The Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) detailing the repair procedures, affected VIN ranges, and warranty claim information is available on the Kia Global Information System (KGIS) at www.kiatechinfo.com.

For California dealers, the state's Registration Renew/Recall Tie-In Program mandates the completion of emissions recalls before vehicle registration renewal. Therefore, California owners will receive a filled-out "Emissions Recall Proof of Correction Card" upon completion of the campaign, which is required for registration renewal. A campaign completion sticker must also be affixed under the hood of the vehicle. Dealers in Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington must also provide a filled-out "Proof of Correction Card" and affix a campaign completion sticker if requested by the owner for vehicle registration renewal purposes. "Proof of Correction Cards" and "under hood campaign labels" are specifically for California and S177 State dealers and can be ordered through the PDC.

Repair Procedure Summary

Dealers will inspect the center muffler on the affected 2023 Kia Sportage vehicles. If the muffler's specifications do not meet U.S. regulations, it will be replaced with a compliant part. The full repair procedure, including detailed steps and warranty claim information, is outlined in the Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) available to dealers on the Kia Global Information System (KGIS). This Kia Sportage muffler inspection ensures that the vehicle adheres to all federal and state emissions standards.

Owner Action

If you own a 2023 Kia Sportage and have received a notification letter regarding this Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign, it is important to contact your authorized Kia dealer to schedule the necessary inspection and potential replacement of the center muffler. The Kia Sportage muffler inspection will be performed at no cost to you. Ensure you retain any "Proof of Correction Cards" provided, especially if you reside in California or other states with similar registration requirements.

Source: NHTSA ID 10219355.