2018 Kia Niro Phev recalls
Reported Jul 31, 2023 · 121,411 vehicles affected · Kia America, Inc.
Problem: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2022 Niro and 2018-2022 Niro Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. Fluid may leak into the printed circuit board inside the hydraulic clutch actuator, which can result in an engine compartment fire.
Risk: A fire increases the risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the hydraulic clutch actuator as necessary and install a new fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 29, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC276.
2018 Kia Niro Phev problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Power Train | 6 | |
| Engine | 4 | |
| Structure | 2 | |
| Electrical System | 2 | |
| Unknown or Other | 2 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 2 | |
| Electronic Stability Control (ESC) | 1 | |
| Suspension | 1 | |
| Air Bags | 1 | |
| Service Brakes | 1 | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 1 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Structure › Body — 2
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 15,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2018 Kia Niro Phev complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Vehicle Speed Control · reported Jun 1, 2026
Year/Make/Model: 2018 Kia Niro Hybrid Mileage at time of incident: approximately 69,000 Component: Hybrid Propulsion System / Powertrain My 2018 Kia Niro Hybrid has experienced five recurring "Hybrid System Failure â Turn Off Engine" errors occurring without warning while the vehicle was being operated. Each occurrence rendered the gas engine ineffective in moving the vehicle, creating an immediate safety hazard. The driver was forced to quickly navigate to safety each time. The vehicle has been brought to the dealership four times for this issue â February 25, May 4, May 15, and May 30…
Electrical System · reported Feb 20, 2024
I received KIA letter about the recall SC276 for HCA issue around 1/15/24. I brought my 2018 Kia Niro PHEV to Kia Dealer in San Jose. They inspected and concluded that the vehicle is safe with the recall SC276. However, they did not replace the fuse as stated in Kia's recall instructions. Ten days later, I was on the road, slowing down at the intersection and the car suddenly lost power, the Dashboard show the message for 'EV System failed'. My battery was fully charged at work, which is 2 miles away. My gas tank was full and I couldn't start my car again. Lucky enough, I was 1/4 mile away…
Forward Collision Avoidance · reported Jan 10, 2024
I was driving myself and two passengers on a highway at night in the rain. I was using the adaptive cruise control and was maintaining speed when i went through a puddle and I think the car hydroplaned a little. A warning sign flashed up on the dash that said something towards "deactivating cruise control" - i am not sure of the exact warning. I've had a warning similar, im not sure if its the exact same, when the adaptive cruise control turns off in traffic and it slows down and turns itself off. But when it turned off this time after the puddle I tried to take control of the car and the gas…
Engine · reported Jan 2, 2024
In July 2023, Kia identified a defect that can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire while driving; namely that the printed circuit board in the hydraulic clutch actuator may become contaminated with fluid and lead to an electrical short circuit. To date, there is still no remedy available. I am filing this complaint for your assistance in ensuring the company provides a remedy within a reasonable time.
Power Train · reported Nov 16, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Kia Niro. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V534000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2018 Kia Niro Phev have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2018 Kia Niro Phev: 23V-534 (power train). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2018 Kia Niro Phev?
Owners report power train problems most often (6 reports), followed by engine (4). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 15,000 miles.
Are Kia recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Kia dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.