Vehicles affected by this service bulletin:
- 2011 Kia Optima
- 2012 Kia Optima
- 2013 Kia Optima
- 2014 Kia Optima
- 2011 Kia Sorento
- 2012 Kia Sorento
- 2013 Kia Sorento
The problem: These vehicles may exhibit increased interior cabin temperatures after long periods of driving; lower air volume coming out of the vents; increased noise from the blower motor due to restricted airflow across the evaporator core; and ice crystals blowing into the vehicle cabin from the vents. Switching to recirculation mode or shutting down the vehicle and sitting for a while may restore full air-conditioning performance for a time. These conditions occur more often in places where ambient temperatures are hot and humid (Texas, Florida, Louisiana, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, etc.).
This condition is due to a faulty evaporator-temperature sensor that causes the evaporator core to freeze. This in turn causes the air-conditioner condensation to freeze and limits airflow across the core, reducing air conditioner and blower performance and blowing ice crystals into the vehicle's cabin.
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Corrective action: On affected vehicles, Kia will install a new, improved evaporator-temperature sensor. The automaker will also restore refrigerant levels and test the system for proper cooling.
Warranty info: Repairs will be covered under the new vehicle warranty.
What owners should do: Call your local dealer with your vehicle's identification number to determine if your vehicle is involved in this service action. You can also call Kia at 800-333-4542. Reference TSB No. CLI026.
Need to find a dealer for service? Go to Cars.com Service & Repair to find a local dealer.
Editor's note: This is only one of dozens of service bulletins issued each month by automakers. Please check your automaker's website to see if your vehicle has any service bulletins pending.
Check for recalls here on Cars.com.
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