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Oil Blockage Issues Lead to Vehicle Recalls
By: Mighty Auto Parts | Wednesday, September 6th, 2017 at 7:19 pm in Filters, Motor Oil, Preventive Maintenance, Tech Tips

Oil Blockage Issues Lead to Vehicle Recalls

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 1.5 million vehicles are being recalled due to potential engine failures. Here is a quick summary of the current recalls:According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 1.5 million vehicles are being recalled due to potential engine failures. Here is a quick summary of the current recalls:

  • 2013–2014 Hyundai Sonata
  • 2013–2014 Hyundai Santa Fe
  • 2011–2013 Kia Sportage
  • 2011–2014 Kia Optima
  • 2012–2014 Kia Sorento

Due to machining errors during the manufacturing process, metal shavings may have been left in the engine promoting bearing wear / failure.  Engines affected include the 2.0L and 2.4L gasoline engines.  A knocking sound, an oil-pressure warning light, or a check-engine light may suggest serious engine problems. During the recall, dealers will inspect all cars, and some may receive new engines.

More to the Story

Oil pressure related symptoms on the Kia and Hyundai applications created controversy prior to these recalls. In fact, Kia produced a bulletin that implied only OE oil filters were compatible with their engines—and the warranty would not be covered on engine failures where an aftermarket filter was installed. As you can imagine, aftermarket filter suppliers were not pleased by this policy. It was addressed aggressively by manufacturers for not being in compliance with the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act.

The engine recall notice does not explicitly address under/over pressurization of the lubricating system. Nevertheless, the same metal fragments illustrated in the engine failures can restrict movement of the pressure regulating valve. This controls oil pressure. One tiny fragment of metal can result in engine failure—or an under/over oil pressurization condition.

Selecting a Quality Filter

The marketplace is filled with some bargain basement filters—but they end up costing vehicle owners in the end. Make certain you select a quality filter from a reputable supplier. Skilled auto technicians in the Mighty Auto Parts network have reported seeing some of the bargain filters with drain back valves totally disintegrated and the silicone appearing residue restricting the oil passages. This causes accelerated engine wear and sticking pressure regulating valves, promoting high or no oil pressure conditions.

It is crucial to know your filter supplier. Select a quality filter from a reputable source like Mighty Auto Parts. To learn more, visit MightyAutoParts.com!

For a more technical review of oil blockage issues and vehicle recalls discussed, please click Mighty Tech Tip #186 on “Controlling Oil Pressure: It’s a Matter of Regulation.”

2 responses to “Oil Blockage Issues Lead to Vehicle Recalls”

  1. Mighty: Maintain to Retain! - Mighty Auto Parts says:

    […] a means to go wherever the road takes you. When an owner purchases a car, it typically comes with a warranty based on mileage and months. The purpose of the warranty is to protect the consumer—a guarantee […]

  2. stephen davis says:

    can i use after market oil filter on my 2021 kia rio 1.6 engine safely car bought at laurel kia md

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