Kia Optima problems
The Kia K5, formerly known as the Kia Optima (Korean: 기아 옵티마), is a mid-size car manufactured by Kia since 2000 and marketed globally through various nameplates. First generation cars were mostly marketed as the Optima, although the Kia Magentis name was used in Europe and Canada when sales began there in 2002. For the second-generation models, Kia used the Kia Lotze and Kia K5 name for the South Korean market, and the Magentis name globally, except in the United States, Canada, Malaysia and the Middle East, where the Optima name was retained until the 2021 model year. The K5 name is used for all markets since the introduction of the fifth generation in 2019.
First generation (MS; 2000)
From 2000–2005, Optimas were a rebadged variant of the Hyundai Sonata, differing from the Sonata only in minor exterior styling details and equipment content. It was first shown in South Korea in July 2000 and was the first product of the Kia-Hyundai platform integration plan.
In Australia, the Optima was introduced in May 2001, offered only with a 2.5 L V6 engine, and choice of manual or automatic transmission. The updated Optima was offered with a new 2.7 L engine, 4-speed automatic (the manual was dropped), and features such as full leather interior and alloy wheels were made standard. Thanks in part to better marketing, sales increased to 41,289 units in 2005, an all-time high. The Optima was sold until 2006, when it was replaced by the Magentis.
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Kia Optima model years
Common Kia Optima problems
The Kia Optima has been reported to have several common problems, with the worst category being engine problems.
Another common problem reported by Kia Optima owners is faulty starter issues. Many owners have reported that their engines suddenly wouldn't start at all, with no signs of what the issue is or that there was an issue in the first place. Although diagnostic tests don't show a clear cause of the engine problems, several owners were able to resolve the issue by simply replacing the battery and/or parking sensor.
The Kia Optima is also known for its faulty door latch problem, where it becomes very difficult to open the vehicle doors from both the inside and outside of the car. The cause of this issue is a faulty door latch assembly, and simply replacing the worn latch will often be all it takes to address the problem.
The main symptoms of a faulty throttle position switch (TPS) are the check engine light illuminating, combined with misfiring and power loss. According to owner reports, this issue tends to happen just after crossing the 100,000 miles milestone.
The Kia Optima’s weak alternator issue is also high on the list of reported Kia Optima problems. This issue generally comes to light when the car has been operating with high electrical loads, such as the driver running the lights, AC, etc., all at the same time – which results in insufficient battery charging capability, as well as making it difficult to start your vehicle. Some owners have reported that jump-starting their batteries or replacing the batteries helps solve the issue. However, several owners ended up experiencing the same issue over time.
In addition to these issues, there are also reports of door lock failures and transmission issues (software correctable) in various model years of the Kia Optima.
What is the most common problem with Kia Optima?
Kia Optima Reliability and Common Problems
- The Kia Optima scored well in terms of reliability, receiving a 4 out of 5 rating on RepairPal. ...
- Some of the top Kia Optima problems include defective throttle position sensors, malfunctioning door latch, weak alternator, leaky low pressure fuel hose, and steering complications.
Is the Kia Optima a reliable car?
The Kia Optima Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 8th out of 24 for midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $471 which means it has lower than average ownership costs. The severity of repairs is average and the frequency of those issues is low, so major repairs are uncommon for the Optima.
What year was bad for Kia Optima?
Kia Optima Years to Avoid: 2011
There were enough issues and pressure from consumers with widespread criticism that a class-action lawsuit was filed against Kia. Eventually, the carmaker recalled the 2011-2014 Optimas with 2.0-liter and 2.4-liter four-cylinder engines, among other cars.
Why are Kia Optimas so cheap?
The materials used are lower in quality than other manufacturers, but Kia is quite smart when it comes to production. Some of the cheaper plastics are used sparingly, so many of Kia's interiors look and feel fancy – but they still managed to save on production costs and pass the savings to the customers.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Kia Optima years
We have researched Kia problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Kia Optima cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Kia Optima model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Kia Optima model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Kia Optima years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Kia Optima car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Kia Optima , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Steering problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Kia Optima vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Optima model years
A total of 291 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Optima model years
There were a total of 351 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Optima model years
There were a total of 246 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Optima model years
There were a total of 17 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 6601 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Kia Optima . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Kia Optima vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Kia Optima 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: 5XXGN4A76EG
- Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: Complaint Summary: I am the current owner of a 2014 Kia Optima, which is affected by recall 23V652 related to the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU). The vehicle was imported to the UAE, and the recall was not addressed by the previous owner. As a result, I am now facing significant safety issues. Since taking ownership, I have encountered multiple engine problems, including sudden power loss, severe vibrations, and abnormal behavior from the throttle. These symptoms align with the issues outlined in the recall notice, indicating that the vehicle may pose a safety risk to me and other road users. Despite my efforts to diagnose the problems, I have already incurred costs exceeding 13 AED on various repairs and diagnostic services, all while being unaware of the existing recall. It was only recently that I discovered the recall information online, which has heightened my concern regarding the safety of my vehicle and the potential for further complications. Given these circumstances, I am requesting assistance from the NHTSA in resolving this recall issue and guidance on how to proceed with the necessary repairs while the vehicle is registered under my name in the UAE. It is crucial for me to ensure the safety of my vehicle for my own protection and for the safety of others on the road. I appreciate your attention to this urgent matter and look forward to any support you can provide. Please let me know if further information or documentation is needed Thanks alot
Kia Optima 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KNAGM4AD6C5
- Components: POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,ENGINE
- Summary: Power train and engine failure and causing my Kia to catch on fire at 11:30 coming back home from work. I was Driving home and smell smoke and car was shaking and when I stopped at the highway to open and look fire was on while driving and I had to call 911 and stop the fire. I had some fire extinguisher in the car I stopped the fire and towed the car and I replaced engine and powered train For over $9000 between repairs and labor and transmission and engine
Kia Optima 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- VIN: 5XXGU4L15KG
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: PAINT CAME OFF OF THE HOOD AND TRUNK (PEARL WHITE)
Kia Optima 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 5XXGU4L31JG
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Kia Optima headlights turn off randomly while on automatic. This dangerous issue has been investigated on other Kia models by the NTSB, which them prompted Kia to issue a recall. I have found many, many posts on car and Kia forums about headlights shutting off while driving at night with the Kia Optima (as well as other Kia items). It's very scary and very hazardous. This is a widespread issue.
Kia Optima 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: KNAGM4A77C5
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Optima. The contact stated that the front passenger's side window failed to roll up or down as needed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the contact was unaware of the diagnostic result, nor the parts needed to be replaced to repair the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Kia Optima 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 5XXGT4L39JG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: While driving at night if the headlights will randomly turn completely off
Kia Optima 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 5XXGT4L39GG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the vehicle made an abnormally loud knocking sound and experienced reduced engine power. The contact stated that the engine failed to exceed 2,000 RPM. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the rod bearings had failed. The dealer determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to an unknown recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 106,000.
Kia Optima 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 5XXGR4A60FG
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: vehicle paint is peeling severely
Kia Optima 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 5XXGM4A72FG
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH, the air bag warning light illuminated. The contact stated that two independent mechanics were sent to the residence to diagnose the vehicle. The contact was informed that the clock spring needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 72,000.
Kia Optima 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 5XXGR4A64FG
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: White pearl paint is chipping all around the car. At times big chucks of paint just flake off
Kia Optima 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 5XXGT4L39KG
- Components: LANE DEPARTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Under normal operating conditions all sensors malfunctioned causing all abs systems to stop working.
Kia Optima 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 5XXGN4A70CG
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving at undisclosed speeds, the brake pedal was depressed and went to the floorboard. The contact stated that several times the brake pedal was depressed approximately a half-inch to an inch. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who replaced the brake master cylinder. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 35,000.
Kia Optima 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
- VIN: 5XXGN4A71DG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Was driving down the highway with no indication of any problems with my car. It just shuts off completely had to coast to the side of the road get someone to tow me home. While on side of the road opened the hood and saw white smoke come from the engine. Just had an oil change and coolant is fine.
Kia Optima 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 5XXGM4A72EG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine, and the vehicle suddenly went into LIMP mode. The contact was able to pull to the side of the road. The contact then drove to the residence. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the engine had failed and needed to be replaced. The dealer informed the contact that an unknown software update regarding the engine knocking was previously performed on the vehicle. The dealer informed the contact that the vehicle could not be covered due to the rebuilt title. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 138,000.
Kia Optima 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 5XXGN4A78EG
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: There is a recall on steering shaft.
Latest 5 recalls Kia Optima
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 59 recalls for different components of the Kia Optima.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Kia Optima 2015
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
- Model: Kia Optima 2012
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
- Model: Kia Optima 2014
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
- Model: Kia Optima 2013
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
- Model: Kia Optima 2011
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
Latest negative Kia Optima car reviews
Latest positive Kia Optima car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2004
I bought this car new six years ago and it has been a great investment. The only maintenance I've had to do is replace the tires and battery. I recently had the 60,000 mile service and it's running like a dream. I plan to keep it until the warranty expires in 37,000 miles.
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Vehicle year: 2007
I would have given this car a higher rating if the passenger seat airbags had worked properly. Besides that, my only complaints are: 1. The trip computer doesn't show MPG. 2. The ride is very hard. It's difficult to rate reliability after only one month, but I will be visiting the dealer for the third time next week. Please take this into consideration.
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Vehicle year: 2006
Your Optima sounds like a great car! I'm glad to hear that you've been enjoying it. It's impressive that you've been able to get such good mileage out of it, especially with mostly highway driving. The manual transmission definitely adds to the fun factor, even if it's not the smoothest. It's good to hear that the suspension is firm yet smooth, although it could be improved on rougher roads. The steering is responsive and the brakes feel great. Overall, it sounds like a comfortable and enjoyable car to drive, despite the lack of lumbar support in the seats.
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Vehicle year: 2006
Very good car with great warranty. Since you've only owned the car for two days, it's hard to make a very detailed review. However, in the short time it has been in your possession, it has been a delight to drive.
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Vehicle year: 2019
In response to a reviewer's complaint about road noise in their 2019 Opt S, I would like to assert that during my test drive of this model, I also noticed pronounced road noise as I accelerated. It is unfortunate that such a promising vehicle falls short in this aspect. As an owner of a '17 Forte, I can confidently say that it is quieter than the Opt S. This issue should be addressed by the manufacturer to improve the overall quality of the vehicle.
Are you having problems with your Kia Optima?
Marcus Schamberger 2025-10-02
Vehicle year: 2009
Since the time of purchase, I have experienced issues with acceleration. Despite being told that there was no problem found after a computer diagnosis, I continued to experience issues. As a woman, I felt that my concerns were not taken seriously. Additionally, I had paid for the KIA maintenance plan for 5 years, only to discover at the end of that period that a new transmission was needed. However, I am confident in my assessment of the situation and believe that the necessary steps will be taken to rectify the issue.
Grant Sawayn 2025-10-02
Vehicle year: 2006
My wife and I have been the proud owners of this car since early 07, having bought it new and loaded. Despite having only 37K miles in 4 years, it has proven to be a very comfortable ride, even more so than the Camry or Accord. We were drawn to this car because of its 10 year warranty and ample rear legroom, which is perfect for when we need to carry 4 tall adults. Even with my height, I usually don't fit in cars with a sunroof, but this one fits me perfectly. With a V6 engine, automatic transmission, and 24MPG, it has been a great investment. The only issue we've had is a recent check engine light for the fuel vapor system, but thankfully, it has been taken care of by the dealer under warranty so far.
Jessie Bernhard 2025-10-01
Vehicle year: 2007
At only 25k miles, the rear brakes on my new car wore unevenly and were down to metal. Despite this, Taylor Kia of Boardman refused to cover the brake pads under warranty. Upon inspection, they claimed that the caliper was fine, but the rear passenger brake was dragging. The excessive wear on the outside pads, with only 3mm and 0mm left on the left rear pads compared to 7mm and 3mm on the right rear pads, indicates a serious issue. Additionally, the wear indicator being on the inside pad means that damage to the rotor can occur before the indicator makes noise. This explains the poor mileage and sluggish power. Despite KIA's response that they stand behind their mechanic and that it is not a warranty issue, I am confident that this is a serious problem that needs to be addressed. As a result, I will not be purchasing another KIA in the future. I believe in supporting American-made cars.
Rowan Douglas 2025-09-29
Vehicle year: 2014
I purchased a 2014 Kia Optima with 32,000 miles five months ago. Unfortunately, the engine seized at 36,000 miles. However, Kia covered the cost of a new engine, although I was without a car for two weeks. Additionally, at 38,500 miles, my O2 sensors malfunctioned, which cost $675 to fix. While I am disappointed with the issues I have experienced with this car at such low mileage, I am grateful that Kia covered the cost of the engine replacement.
Hailey Kassulke 2025-09-25
Vehicle year: 2001
I purchased this car brand new from the showroom and although there were some minor issues initially, nothing major occurred. However, after owning it for three years, I experienced some warranty problems which resulted in my car being in the shop for six months. During this time, several parts were replaced including the transmission, computer, speakers/radio, windows, locks, and engine. Unfortunately, due to the car's depreciation, we were only recently able to sell it without incurring negative equity. My advice would be to consider other options as there may be a reason for the warranty.