MPG dropped 40% after engine recalled

Tiny
BRUCEKAHN
  • MEMBER
  • 2013 KIA OPTIMA HYBRID
  • 2.4L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 78,000 MILES
The engine was recalled 2 1/2 years ago. The short block was replaced and the cylinder head was remanufactured The car got a combined mpg of 38-40 MPG prior to the recall. It has been 24.5 MPG ever since no matter the season. Took it back to the dealer a number of times. They couldn't find anything. Complained to the National Service people who told me the car was 5 years old and of course the MPG would fall off. In addition, before the engine work, the car never had any hesitation after depressing the accelerator pedal. It now has hesitation while I am on a steep hill at 20-30 MPG. My wife and I were so very happy with the Kia before this happened. Now we are considering trading it in for a Camry Hybrid unless we can resolve this problem.
Saturday, March 13th, 2021 AT 9:23 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

This is a tough one. That is a big change in MPG. Did this happen immediately after the new engine was installed? Also, has the check engine light ever come on and stayed on while the engine is running?

The idea that it hesitates on a steep hill leads me to think something is moving. For example, the insides of the catalytic converter can become loose and move on a steep hill. That would restrict the exhaust flow and cause a hesitation or loss of power.

Let me know if there is anything you can think of that stands out. For example, are there any noises or smells you notice from the vehicle?

Let me know.

Take care and God Bless,

Joe
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Monday, March 15th, 2021 AT 7:43 PM
Tiny
BRUCEKAHN
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Hi Joe, there is no noise or odd smell from the exhaust when the car hesitates going up the hill. The significant drop in MPG occurred right after the engine work was completed. The tech at the dealer thought it was because I was filling it up with substandard gasoline. He suggested buying only Top Tier gasoline. Most times before I bought Top Tier. On his advice I only bought Top Tier. No change. And nothing was found in several more appointments at the dealer. I contacted the National Service person for KIa who told me that my 2013 KIA Optima Hybrid with 55, 000 miles in 2018 was just getting old and what should I expect.
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Tuesday, March 16th, 2021 AT 1:56 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

Is there a rattling sound from under the vehicle and can you describe the smell? Is it like a rotten egg smell?

Joe
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Tuesday, March 16th, 2021 AT 6:47 PM

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