{"count":1,"message":"Results returned successfully","results":[{"odiNumber":11700454,"manufacturer":"Kia America, Inc.","crash":false,"fire":true,"numberOfInjuries":0,"numberOfDeaths":0,"dateOfIncident":"11/14/2025","dateComplaintFiled":"11/19/2025","vin":"5XXGU4L31GG","components":"UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM","summary":"While driving, the vehicle suddenly developed a loud knocking noise from the engine. Within one block the vehicle began smoking heavily from under the hood. I pulled over, opened the hood, and flames were visible. This is a 2016 Kia Optima with the 2.4L Theta II engine. Approximately one year ago the original engine seized and was replaced by a Kia dealer under the Theta II engine recall (SC172/SC147) and class-action settlement. This is the second catastrophic failure of a Theta II engine in this vehicle. The replacement engine has now failed in the exact same manner as the thousands of other documented cases \u2014 rod bearing failure leading to knocking, overheating, and engine compartment fire. The dealership (Fowler Kia of Windsor, CO) inspected the vehicle and quoted over $6,000 in repairs (melted engine wiring harness, ECM connector, battery cables, airbox, intake boot, etc.) while claiming the fire was \u201cunknown cause/not the engine,\u201d despite the clear knocking immediately preceding the fire. Kia Consumer Affairs has an open case but has not yet resolved coverage. This is a known, ongoing safety defect covered under multiple NHTSA investigations (PE21004, EA22002) and Kia recalls. I no longer feel safe in this vehicle and am requesting immediate investigation and inclusion in any expanded recall or remedy.","products":[{"type":"Vehicle","productYear":"2016","productMake":"KIA","productModel":"OPTIMA","manufacturer":"Kia America, Inc."}]}]}