[missingcurlybracket]

If you bring in a car throwing P1326 they'll probably replace the knock sensor and stuff first which you already did. The customer can keep at it and report any new symptoms, I'd take it easy but otherwise drive it. Keeping an eye on oil level will be important but if it's guzzling it it's likely on borrowed time.

If it blows up, is noticeably knocking, P1326 comes back then its Kia dealer + likely new engine time and I'd shop around to see which one has the best availability. These engines pretty much have a lifetime bottom-end warranty. The next issue then becomes how the lady will get around while her car is in the shop. She'll likely be on the hook for rentals upfront and a loaner may/may not be available from the dealer.

Edit: You said the dealer said she doesn't have a 2.4L? Does she have the 2.0-Turbo? Those two are covered, but if it's a 1.6T (not sure if that was in the Optima) then it changes my whole post. I wrote it thinking she has a 2.4/2.0T.

 

[missingcurlybracket]

Is that one of those universal extended warranty things that doesn't rely on buying new?


Will that be reimbursed? I tried to find a letter. I'm sure Kia sent one out to owners explaining the situation.

Edit: It's a 2.4. I meant there were no outstanding recalls. I was very nervous about them saying it had the GDI fire problem... sounds like that's just the 1.6T?

It's universal to whoever bought new, used, etc. But only the bottom-end/P1326/knocking however - the most likely failure. If it's something like a headgasket then it won't be covered. Oil change records/evidence may be asked for, but I also heard they pull the valve cover and see if it's sludged or anything.

I mean Hyundai/Kia and fire are a match made in heaven! But yea, older models required an update (KSDS) for lifetime coverage but an '18MY should already have it so no recall required.