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.
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