Kia Optima problems

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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.

photo of Kia Optima car production

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Kia Optima model years

kia optima 2020 photo
Optima 2020
Kia

64

0

34

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia optima 2019 photo
Optima 2019
Kia

126

1

19

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia optima 2018 photo
Optima 2018
Kia

171

2

19

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia optima 2017 photo
Optima 2017
Kia

213

3

35

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia optima 2016 photo
Optima 2016
Kia

619

5

27

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia optima 2015 photo
Optima 2015
Kia

837

4

29

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia optima 2014 photo
Optima 2014
Kia

500

7

18

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia optima 2013 photo
Optima 2013
Kia

1232

9

25

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia optima 2012 photo
Optima 2012
Kia

857

5

28

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia optima 2011 photo
Optima 2011
Kia

572

5

29

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia optima 2010 photo
Optima 2010
Kia

72

1

32

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia optima 2009 photo
Optima 2009
Kia

115

1

34

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia optima 2008 photo
Optima 2008
Kia

140

3

33

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia optima 2007 photo
Optima 2007
Kia

165

2

32

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia optima 2006 photo
Optima 2006
Kia

155

2

31

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia optima 2005 photo
Optima 2005
Kia

144

0

32

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia optima 2004 photo
Optima 2004
Kia

224

1

31

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia optima 2003 photo
Optima 2003
Kia

143

2

35

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia optima 2002 photo
Optima 2002
Kia

109

3

29

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia optima 2001 photo
Optima 2001
Kia

143

3

31

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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.

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

  1. Taylor Langosh 2025-03-28

    Vehicle year: 2001

    I happened to own one while selling them to make a living. Periodically, the CD/Cassette player gives an error indicating it is unable to locate the last track played on the CD. It seems like we might have some paint problems. Have you noticed that the trunk, door, hood, and door handle wells need another coat of the same metallic exterior paint? I dislike the wasted jet beams that spike straight up at about a 75-degree angle from horizontal. If you look up at tall evergreens after dark while driving some night, especially in the fog, it can be quite a sight! It's a shame that there are no rear cabin lights. It can be difficult to navigate around the rear seats and rear floors in a 21st-century automobile. Let's work together to make this better.

  2. Lula Hauck 2025-03-21

    Vehicle year: 2006

    There's really no reason why a car manufacturer can't use a proven design of a part that has never had any problems in the past, regardless of the make of the car. I had my driver's side replaced at the dealership, and although I used it normally, I gave them the benefit of the doubt. However, when the passenger side went bad with hardly any use, it made me wonder about the quality of their product. It would be great if Kia could stand behind their product and provide a more reliable one!

  3. Deshaun Crona 2025-03-21

    Vehicle year: 2005

    The car was purchased brand new in 2007 and had one previous owner for 1-2 years. It sat at a used dealership since then. My mother bought it in 2013 without test driving it for $1400. Unfortunately, there were some issues with fuses and electrical problems. The RPMs didn't work and many levels were not shown, such as the battery. The lights pointed to the ground and adjustments didn't help. Within just 1-2 days, there were oil leaks and freeze plugs had to be changed. After 1-2 months, the car started overheating and we had to pay $1500 to change the thermostat, hoses, and sensors. We found out that there were actually cracks in the radiator and it exploded coolant everywhere, costing us another $1500. Unfortunately, everything required proprietary tools, so we couldn't even take off the door panel to put the windows back on track. The only thing that was easy to change was the spark plugs. The passenger door doesn't lock, unlock, or open.

  4. Baylee Wunsch 2025-03-19

    Vehicle year: 2010

    Although I owned a 2007 Mustang for three years, I decided to trade it in due to numerous issues and the expiration of the warranty. After considering several options, I ultimately chose the Kia Optima. While the car is generally good, I have found the seats to be uncomfortably hard and have experienced back pain while driving. I would recommend taking an extended test drive before making a purchase. Despite this issue, the car boasts excellent safety features and warranty coverage, as well as a high-quality radio. Overall, I am satisfied with my decision to purchase the Kia Optima.

  5. Reagan Graham 2025-03-17

    Vehicle year: 2013

    Hi there, I wanted to share my experience with my Kia. I had noticed that my paint/clear coat had a spider web effect when I waxed it, so I filed a complaint before the warranty was up. When the issue got worse, I contacted Kia again, but unfortunately, they denied that I had filed a claim. The paint is now off warranty and the problem has spread. I also took my car to the dealer for an issue with the gear shift, but they advised me that nothing was wrong. I have also noticed that the driver's window motor has begun to squeal when the window is rolled up. After a rain, I had noticed that the rotors/brakes seemed as if they were rusting and grinding heavily for a few moments, but the dealer stated that nothing was wrong with it. I would appreciate it if you could take a look at these issues. Thank you for your time!

Latest positive Kia Optima car reviews

  1. Abdiel Larkin 2025-03-29

    Vehicle year: 2017

    I've had my Optima SXL Turbo for almost 8 months now, and I must say, I absolutely love it! It has so many features and I just adore the way it drives and handles - it's amazing! Although the turbo lag can be a little inconsistent when you aren't used to the car, now that I know how it responds and when, it's great. If you had told me a few years back that I would be buying a Kia, I would have thought you were mistaken. However, I was drawn to the new design of the SXL and how sharp it looked, so I went for a few test drives and before I knew it, I didn't want any other car. Believe it or not, I've had so many friends who initially laughed at me, ask me if they can drive it, and have nothing bad to say when they're done. I'm so glad I got this car, and I think it would be very hard for me to ever purchase anything else.

  2. Wyatt King 2025-03-29

    Vehicle year: 2010

    I purchased this car in December 2010 when it was just 9 months old and had previously been a rental car. For the most part, I have had a positive experience with it. Although, after about a year, I did encounter a problem with the car that required me to escalate the issue to a vice president of Kia Motors America (KMA) to get it fixed under warranty. It took multiple attempts at 2 Kia dealerships and a number of repair efforts by the KMA engineer for the Eastern United States, but it was finally fixed after about a year. While the warranty process was sometimes difficult, I have found the car to be comfortable for daily driving and all trips I have taken it on. In terms of performance, the car accelerates well, has reasonably short braking distances, and handles well. Although, after about 4 years, some minor paint and trim issues appeared that were not covered by the warranty. As of August 2023, the car has over 131,000 miles on the odometer and is still running well. Over the years, I have had to replace a number of parts, but nothing major. The interior has held up well with no holes in the carpet or tears in the seats. The engine is quiet, powerful, and smooth and takes less than a quart of oil between oil changes. The transmission is smooth, works well, and does not leak (the fluid was changed at 60,000 miles and 118,000 miles). While this sedan is not fancy, flashy or high performance, I have found it to be fairly comfortable, reliable, and economical.

  3. Candido Oberbrunner 2025-03-29

    Vehicle year: 2001

    I am satisfied with my Optima, despite some minor issues. The acceleration and smooth ride are impressive, and the price is unbeatable. While there have been some problems with the paint peeling off one of the door handles, paint chips on the side view mirrors, and power door locks not working, overall, I am happy with my purchase. I believe that the Optima is a great car for the price, and I would recommend it to others.

  4. Michel O'Connell 2025-03-28

    Vehicle year: 2011

    I went to check out the Sorrento SUV and found this stunning beauty sitting next to it on the showroom floor with a price tag that was $10K less. I walked around the car and sat in every seat multiple times... and I just couldn't talk myself out of liking this car! I get asked by my neighbors, people at the gas station, and people in parking lots,

  5. Rod Mosciski 2025-03-27

    Vehicle year: 2007

    I recently purchased a used car from Enterprise car sales with 43,000 miles on it. Although the gas mileage was not as high as I expected, averaging around 20-24 instead of the 28-32 like the sticker said, I absolutely love the look and design of the car. However, I have experienced some issues with the transmission not shifting smoothly, as well as the headlights and tail light bulbs blowing every 6 months. Fortunately, I was able to fix the latter issue with an HID conversion kit on the car. Additionally, the trunk has a tendency to randomly pop open on its own, and I have been experiencing some electrical issues with the AC randomly shutting off and on. Although the dealership initially tried to tell me it was the blower motor, I had it replaced and unfortunately, it still does the same thing.

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