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: 2001
Congratulations on your new Kia Optima (2001)! While you were considering a Honda Accord, you made a smart decision by choosing the Kia and saving yourself about 6 grand. The Kia Optima is a great car that offers a lot of value for the money. It looks and feels like a luxury car, which is fantastic. I'm glad to hear that you had a very pleasant experience with their Service Center and that they took care of some minor scratches and did an oil change to get you and your 2001 on the road right away. It's great to hear that you feel you made a great choice. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2003
Hi there! I just wanted to share that this is actually my second KIA. My first one was a 2000 Sephia and I loved how dependable it was, which is why I decided to go back for another. My Sephia had 138,000 miles on it and was only 2 1/2 years old! When I saw the Optima 2003, I really liked its style and I have been enjoying driving it so far. I did have a simple problem, but the dealer will be correcting it for me. I am really hoping to get the same reliable transportation with this car, and if I do, I will definitely be buying another KIA in 3 years!
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Vehicle year: 2003
For the money you spend, it's definitely worth it. I got an LX, 4 cyl auto for 13.5K out the door and it's a real deal for a car this good. I'm still loving it after 5k miles.
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Vehicle year: 2008
I hope you and your kids are doing well! I'm glad to hear that you were able to find a great deal on a car that is both safe and reliable. It's great that the car still has 3 years/30,000 miles on the original warranty and that you have the lifetime dealership to rely on. I did some research and found that the car you chose is one of the safest on the market, which is fantastic news! It's always important to prioritize safety, especially when it comes to our loved ones. I hope the car continues to meet your expectations and please do check back in 6 months to let us know how it's going!
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Vehicle year: 2002
You've found the best overall value!
Are you having problems with your Kia Optima?
Monte Klocko 2025-01-06
Vehicle year: 2018
I purchased the 1.6 L turbo model and unfortunately, my experience with it has not been great. The car seems to lack power and the transmission can be quite noisy, especially in first gear. In stop-and-go traffic, the car shakes quite violently, which can be concerning. Kia has issued a bulletin regarding this issue, but I still have some concerns about the safety of the vehicle. I would recommend considering other models before making a purchase.
Floy Lehner 2025-01-05
Vehicle year: 2007
Firstly, I want to express my sympathy for the unfortunate experience you had with your car. It is disheartening to hear that such a great car did not meet your expectations. Your Optima was a reliable car for a long time, and it handled your daily 148-mile commute with ease. However, it is unfortunate that the engine failed at 63,373 miles, which could have caused a serious accident. After some discussions with Kia, they agreed to replace the engine, which was a positive outcome. Later, at 65,973 miles, the transmission also had to be replaced. I understand that the 07 models have some quality issues, especially for owners who do heavy driving and have long commutes. A Kia mechanic informed you that head gasket, engine, and transmission problems are common for such models. Thank you for sharing your experience with us, and I hope that your next car will meet your expectations.
Sebastian Schinner 2025-01-03
Vehicle year: 2006
Repairs began at 36,000 miles and were not covered by the warranty, as confirmed by the mechanic. While it was determined that the issue was not a manufacturing defect, $4000.00 has been spent on repairs thus far, yet the vehicle remains undrivable with the check engine light still illuminated. The vehicle has received a new flywheel, clutch, timing belt, and sensors, including the crank and EGR valve sensor. However, a new issue has arisen and further repairs are needed. Despite the financial and emotional strain, I remain confident in finding a solution to this problem.
Benedict Casper 2025-01-02
Vehicle year: 2001
The car has great gas mileage with the five speed and is quite roomy. However, I have experienced some issues with this car, ranging from the center console falling apart to the infamous power window problems. I have also had to deal with premature clutch failure, electrical dash problems, and engine issues. Although there is a bumper to bumper warranty, it does not cover car rental if you have to leave the vehicle in the shop. Additionally, the resale and/or trade-in value is quite low. Overall, I would not recommend this car as it has not been a good purchase for me.
Jermain Feest 2025-01-02
Vehicle year: 2010
Hi there! My husband and I recently decided to expand our family, which meant we needed a bigger car. Unfortunately, we've had a few issues with our Kia. In the first week of owning it, we had to replace the crank sensor. While it was fine for about three weeks, it went out again. We've also had to replace the oil pump twice since we bought the car, and now it's going out again. Our check engine light has been kicking on and off, so we took the car to have a diagnostic run and found out that the crank sensor is bad again. Interestingly, our cousin bought a car just like ours and has had the same problems. While we're disappointed with the car's performance, we're hopeful that we can find a solution. Thanks for listening!