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Kia Optima phev 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.

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Kia Optima phev model years

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Optima phev 2018
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Common Kia Optima phev problems

Common Problems with Kia Optima PHEV Cars

The Kia Optima PHEV is a popular choice for those looking for a fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly vehicle. However, like any car, it has its share of common problems that owners have reported.

  1. Gearbox issues

One of the most common problems with the Kia Optima PHEV is gearbox issues. Some owners have reported experiencing violent gear changes, where the car would sometimes change gear from 1 to 2 very violently, like dropping the clutch.

  1. Recall due to trunk latch base cracking

Kia has issued a recall for certain 2016-2017 Rio, 2016-2018 Optima, 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid, and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles due to a potential defect in the trunk latch base. The trunk latch base may crack, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside, which can increase the risk of injury for a person inside the trunk compartment.

  1. Connecting rod bearings inside the engine wearing prematurely

Kia has also issued a recall for certain 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles due to a potential defect in the engine. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which can result in engine damage. A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

  1. Metal shavings in the gearbox oil

Another common problem with the Kia Optima PHEV is metal shavings in the gearbox oil. This can indicate wear and tear on the gears and may require a gearbox replacement. Some owners have reported experiencing violent gear changes and metal shavings in the gearbox oil, indicating a potential design flaw or manufacturing defect.

  1. Limited boot space due to battery placement

The Kia Optima PHEV has a limited boot space due to the placement of the batteries. This can make it difficult to transport larger items, and some owners have reported using the back seats to carry cargo instead.

  1. Potential issues with the high-voltage hybrid system

There has been one recall that could affect any Optima Sportswagon PHEV built between 16 October 2015 and 11 September 2017. It relates to the voltage protection device in the high-voltage hybrid system that may develop a fault, with the driver noticing a severe drop in power.

In conclusion, while the Kia Optima PHEV is a reliable and fuel-efficient vehicle, it is not immune to common problems. Gearbox issues, recall due to trunk latch base cracking, connecting rod bearings inside the engine wearing prematurely, metal shavings in the gearbox oil, limited boot space due to battery placement, and potential issues with the high-voltage hybrid system are some of the common problems that owners have reported. It is essential to keep up with regular maintenance and recalls to ensure the longevity and safety of the vehicle.

Kia Optima phev

What is the problem with the Kia Optima plug-in hybrid?

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which can result in engine damage.

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 PHEV engine recall?

Kia is recalling approximately 10,730 model-year 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles due to engine issues. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, resulting in engine damage.

Is the Kia Optima PHEV discontinued?

The K5 is a mid-size sedan with a bolder exterior and richer interior amenities, making it an excellent option for buyers looking for a pre-owned vehicle with tremendous value, comfort, and style. However, the Optima has been discontinued, but worry not!

Recalls Kia Optima phev

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the Kia Optima phev.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Kia Optima phev 2017
  • Report Received Date: 2023-08-24
  • Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH
  • Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Rio, 2016-2018 Optima, 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. The trunk latch base may crack, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
  • Consequence: A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the trunk latch base subassembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC278.
  • Model: Kia Optima phev 2018
  • Report Received Date: 2023-08-24
  • Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH
  • Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Rio, 2016-2018 Optima, 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. The trunk latch base may crack, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
  • Consequence: A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the trunk latch base subassembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC278.
  • Model: Kia Optima phev 2017
  • Report Received Date: 2021-10-29
  • Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which can result in engine damage.
  • Consequence: A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced. Dealers will also install a software update containing a Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 29, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC218.
  • Model: Kia Optima phev 2018
  • Report Received Date: 2021-10-29
  • Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which can result in engine damage.
  • Consequence: A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced. Dealers will also install a software update containing a Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 29, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC218.

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