2002 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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Common 2002 Kia Optima problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2002 Kia Optima, several common problems have been reported:
- Starter Problems: Some owners have reported starter problems with the 2013 Kia Optima, where the engine suddenly wouldn't start. This issue can be highly inconvenient, especially when reliability is crucial. While the exact cause of these starter problems is not clear, some owners have managed to resolve them through actions like replacing the parking sensor or battery.
- Engine Malfunction and Failure: The 2011-2014 Kia Optima models have been known to suffer from severe engine manufacturing issues, leading to premature bearing wear. This issue can result in uncontrollable engine seizing, posing a risk of accidents. In response to this problem, a recall was issued in 2017 to replace the engine assembly for affected units. Additionally, the 2013 model has been associated with loud knocking noises that could lead to engine failure, requiring costly repairs or replacements.
- Steering Issues: The 2012 Kia Optima has been reported to have steering problems, including stiff steering, abnormal noises during turns, sudden steering assist loss, and excessive vibrations in the steering wheel. Some owners have faced challenges with steering control, needing to exert extra effort to maintain control of the vehicle. Addressing these steering issues may involve replacing various parts on a case-by-case basis to ensure safe and smooth driving experiences.
By addressing these common problems reported by owners of the 2002 Kia Optima, potential buyers can make informed decisions and be prepared to address these issues if they arise.
What is the common issue with Kia Optima?
Kia Optima Engine Problems
Over the years, the Kia Optima has been reported to have severe engine manufacturing and failure issues that may be causing its bearings to wear prematurely. In some cases, premature bearing wear and tear can trigger uncontrollable engine seizing, increasing the risk of causing an accident.
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 Kia Optima is the best?
With good VehicleHistory, Cars.com, and Consumer Reports reliability and owner satisfaction scores, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020 are the best Kia Optima years of the generation.
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.
2002 Kia Optima car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Kia Optima problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
- Suspension problems
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Kia Optima vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2002 Kia Optima
The NHTSA has received 109 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Kia Optima. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2002 Kia Optima vehicles.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-04
- VIN: knagd128525
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Kia Optima. The contact stated that after he replaced all four tires, the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for an alignment; however, the mechanic was unable to perform an alignment due to the subframe corrosion. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V183000 (Suspension) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 111,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-20
- VIN: KNAGD126125
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WERE HOLES FROM CORROSION DUE TO SUB-FRAME RUST. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH NEEDING THE SUB-FRAME TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED AS OF YET. UPON INVESTIGATION, THE CONTACT ASSOCIATED THE FAILURE WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V183000 (SUSPENSION) HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 160,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-03
- VIN: KNAGD126025
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG LIGHT ALL OF SUDDEN,AFTER JUST STARTING UP
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-07
- VIN: KNAGD126125
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,WHEELS
- Summary: OVER A WEEKS TIME,I NOTICED MY STEERING WHEEL WAS TURNED LIKE MAYBE I NEEDED AN ALIGNMENT AND IT STARTED PULLING TO THE LEFT SO BAD THAT I HAD TO FORCE THE STEERING WHEEL TO THE RIGHT SO I WOULDN'T WRECK INTO THE MEDIAN ON THE INTERSTATE. I COULD ONLY GO ABOUT 45 OR 50 MPH OR IT WOULD START SHAKING THE ENTIRE CAR AND WAS ABSOLUTELY IMPOSSIBLE TO CONTROL IT ON THE ROAD. HAD IT LOOKED AT AND AT THE BOTTOM CONTROL ARM THAT BOLTS TO THE SUBFRAME HAD RUSTED OUT AND THE RIGHT SIDE WAS ON THE VERGE OF DOING THE SAME! THE FL AND FR TIRES, THAT I HAD GOTTEN BRAND NEW 5 MONTHS AGO, WERE WORE DOWN TO THE WIRE!!! I'M SURPRISED I HAD THE CHANCE TO GET IT HOME AND GET IT LOOKED AT BEFORE IT RUSTED ALL THE WAY THROUGH! I WAS SO BLESSED I DIDNT HAVE A HORRIBLE ACCIDENT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KNAGD128X25
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2002 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE VEHICLE HYDROPLANED AND CRASHED INTO A TREE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 219,000.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-19
- VIN: KNAGD128925
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH AND MAKING A LEFT TURN, THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE CONTROL ARM, TIE ROD, AND CV AXLE FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE SUBFRAME NEEDED TO BE REPLACED ALONG WITH THE DRIVER SIDE CONTROL ARM, TIE ROD, AND CV AXLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V183000 (SUSPENSION). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 133,313.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-20
- VIN: KNAGD128025
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MY 16 YEAR OLD JUST PURCHASED A 2002 KIA OPTIMA SEDAN ON SATURDAY 8/20/2016 FROM A USED CAR DEALERSHIP. VERY FIRST CAR, HIS OWN EARNED SAVINGS. UPON FINALIZING THE PAPERWORK, WE LITERALLY WALKED OUT THE DOOR & IMMEDIATELY WERE UNABLE TO UNLOCK HIS DRIVER'S DOOR WITH THE KEY FOB. THE CAR WAS STATIONARY, NOT RUNNING, PARKED IN ALL INSTANCES IN REGARDS TO THIS COMPLAINT. COINCIDENTALLY, IT WORKED PERFECT FOR OUR TEST DRIVE. I DO ALSO HAVE SIGNED DOCUMENTATION STATING THE CAR LOT DOES NOTHING TO THE CAR ELECTRONICALLY, MECHANICALLY OR OTHERWISE AS WELL IF NEEDED. I WAS HOPEFUL IT WAS THE KEY FOB BATTERY, BUT IT'S BEEN REPLACED & STILL NOT WORKING. WE'VE HAD THE SAME ISSUE WITH ALL THE LOCKS SINCE & NO SUCCESS TO UNLOCK WHEN NEEDED. HE USES THE DRIVER'S SIDE THE VAST MAJORITY OF THE TIME, BUT ALL WITHOUT WARNING WILL NOT LOCK OR UNLOCK WITH NO RHYME OR REASON. HE'S HAD TO CRAWL OVER FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE TO GET IN EVERY TIME. MY NIGHTMARE AS ANY PARENTS IS GOD FORBID A FIRE START OR HE ACCIDENTALLY GOES INTO A BODY OF WATER & IS TRAPPED. I REALIZE IT'S AN OLDER CAR BOUGHT USED, BUT I SEE THERE ARE DOZENS OF COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE LOCKS, NOT JUST ON YOUR SITE. EVEN A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT THAT WAS MYSTERIOUSLY "VOLUNTARILY DISMISSED" BY THE PLAINTIFF IN 2015. CASE NO. [XXX] FROM WHAT I CAN SEE. WHERE IS THE RECALL? WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO HAVE ONE ISSUED? WE DON'T HAVE THE FINANCIAL CAPABILITY TO PAY FOR A MANUFACTURER DEFECT THAT IS ALREADY BEEN UNCOVERED YET AMAZINGLY NO ONE IS REQUIRED TO REPAIR? NOR DO I FEEL WE SHOULD HAVE TO. ANOTHER POINT TO NOTE IS EVERY SINGLE VIN # I'VE SEEN COMPLAINTS ON THIS SITE, ARE IN VERY CLOSE NUMERICAL SUCCESSION WITH OURS. I HAVE TO SAY IT SEEMS VERY UNLIKELY IT'S SHEER COINCIDENCE. I UNDERSTAND COMPANIES NEED TO GUARD THEIR "BOTTOM LINE" BUT WHAT COST? I SINCERELY APPRECIATE YOUR TIME & FEEDBACK. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-20
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: 2002 KIA OPTIMA DRIVER DOOR WILL NOT UNLOCK WITH KEYLESS ENTRY OR FROM IN SIDE OF CAR ONLY AFTER LOCKING AND WAITING SEVERAL MINUTES TO HITTING UNLOCK ABOUT 20 TIMES TO GET THE DOOR TO UNLOCK HAVE BEEN LOCKED IN CAR AND CRAWL THREW CAR OR OUT WINDOW. CAR HAS 142000.MILIES
SUSPENSION,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-15
- VIN: KNAGD126525
- Components: SUSPENSION,WHEELS
- Summary: WE OWN A 2002 KIA OPTIMA- FOUND OUT THERE WAS A RECALL- THE RECALL WAS CORRISION TO THE SUBFRAME THAT COULD LEAD TO PROBLEMS WITH THE CONTROL ARM. I WAS TOLD THAT THE CAR WAS INSPECTED IN 2010 AND THE RECALL WAS TAKEN CARE OF AT THAT TIME. WE BOUGHT THE CAR FROM A PRIVATE OWNER IN 2014. 2015 WENT TO GET NEW TIRES ON THE CAR AND DISCOUNT TIRE TOLD US THAT THEY COULDN'T DO AN ALIGNMENT BECAUSE THERE IS AN ISSUE WITH THE CONTROL ARM. WE FOUND OUT TO REPAIR THE CONTROL ARE IT WOULD BE OVER $500. WHEN I CALLED THE KIA HOTLINE TO INQUIRE ABOUT THE RECALL, I WAS TOLD THAT WE WOULD NEED TO TAKE THE CAR TO A KIA DEALERSHIP TO HAVE THE CAR REVIEWED BY THEIR SERVICE MEN TO SEE IF THERE IS ANY ISSUES WITH THE SUBFRAME AND CONTROL ARM. I'M CONCERNED MY CONCERN IS NOT GOING TO GET ADRESSED. 7/11/2016 JP
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-06
- VIN: KNAGD128725
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE LOWER SUBFRAME DETACHED DUE TO CORROSION INSIDE THE SUBFRAME. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V183000 (SUSPENSION). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-04
- VIN: KNAGD128X25
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I JUST GOT MY 2002 KIA OPTIMA AND IT JUST RECENTLY STARTED HAVING ISSUES. I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND MY CAR STARTED TO SLIGHTLY WANDER TO THE LEFT, I THOUGHT OK.. IT NEEDS AN ALIGNMENT. SO THEN IT STARTED JERKING TO THE RIGHT, SO BAD I GOT PULLED OFF TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND COULDN'T CONTROL IT. I PARKED MY CAR IN A PARKING LOT TIL MY BF COULD COME LOOK AT IT, AND I HAD HIM DRIVE IT HOME AND THE SAME THING HAPPENED TO HIM. HE LOOKED AT EVERY POSSIBILITY AT WHAT IT COULD BE AS HE IS A MECHANIC AND SAID LOWER CONTROL ARM. IT HAS BEEN SITTING IN MY YARD FOR A WEEK. IT IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE. I FOUND OUT IT HAD A RECALL BACK IN 2009, SO I CALLED MY LOCAL KIA DEALER AND THEY SAID IT WAS PART OF THE RECALL BUT IT HAS BEEN FIXED- I'M WONDERING HOW IT WAS FIXED IF IT IS DOING THE SAME EXACT THING EVERYONE'S COMPLAINTS I HAVE SEEN IS DOING/ I AM AT A HALT NOT KNOWING WHAT TO DO WITH MY CAR, I HAVE SMALL CHILDREN AND REFUSE TO DRIVE THIS CAR. PLEASE HELP
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-22
- VIN: KNAGD128925
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING SERVICED, THE MECHANIC NOTICED THAT THE SUBFRAME WAS RUSTED OUT AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-01
- VIN: KNAGD128425
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-24
- VIN: KNAGD128X25
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: DRIVING UP THE ROAD ,PUT ON BRAKES ,AXLE AND SUBFRAME BROKE CAUSING MY CAR TO SLIDE AND STOP IN MIDDLE OF ROAD.THANK GOD NO ONE HIT US.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-03-27
- VIN: KNAGD126525
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING ON FREEWAY ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON VEHICLE STOPPED ENGINE SHUT OFF I HAD TO COAST TO SIDE OF ROAD. IT QUIT SHIFTING AFTER IT STALLED. HAD TO BE TOWED HOME. KIA DEALER IN ONTARIO CALIFORNIA CAN'T FIND WHAT IS WRONG THEY WANT ME TO PAY 1600.00 TO CHANGE BATTERY CABLES, BATTERY AND FIX SHIFTER. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-03-25
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KNAGD128325
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 KIA OPTIMA. AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE, FLAMES STARTED TO EMIT FROM UNDERNEATH THE HOOD DUE TO THE WIRING NEAR THE STARTER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 220,000.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-02-05
- VIN: KNAGD128425
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD, STEPPED ON BRAKES AND FRONT FRAME BROKE INTO TWO PIECES, IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD, NEARLY CAUSED A PILE UP ON THE ROAD. *JS
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-06
- VIN: KNAGD128735
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ACTUATOR DOOR LOCKS FOR THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER DOORS FAILED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WINDOW WAS USED IN ORDER TO ENTER THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE THE FRONT PASSENGER ACTUATOR WAS REPAIRED PREVIOUSLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-19
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KNAGD128225
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: A FIRE STARTED INSIDE THE DRIVERS SIDE DOOR PANEL FILLING THE CAR WITH HEAVY BLACK SMOKE MY WIFE OPENED THE DRIVERS SIDE ELECTRIC WINDOW TO GE RID OF THE SMOKE OUT OF THE CAR. SHE DROVE THE CAR INTO HER BACK YARD AND STARTED SCREAMING FOR HELP SINCE THE DRIVERS SIDE DOOR WOULD NOT OPEN. HER HUSBAND RAN TO THE BACK YARD AND WAS ABLE TO OPEN THE PASSENGER SIDE DOOR AND SHE HAD TO CLIMB OVER THE GEAR SHIFT AND THE EMERGENCY BRAKE TO GET OUT OF THE CAR. SHE WAS ON OXYGEN AT THE TIME. HER HUSBAND GOT A WATER HOSE AND PUT OUT THE FIRE. THE INVESTIGATION LED TO THE FIRE STARTING IN A ELECTRICAL ACTUATOR KIA NUMBER ACT " R ASSY KMC 9530-3C000. THE DOOR HAD TO BE REPLACED. I NOTIFIED KIA CORP HEADQUARTERS AT 1-877-220-3189 AND SENT PICTURES MY CASE # [XXX]. AS OF THIS DATE 07/24/2014 KIA HAS NOT GOT BACK WITH ME. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-01
- VIN: KNAGD126925
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: SUBFRAME IS RUSTING OUT AND MY TIRES ARE GETTING ABNORMAL WEAR AND MY FRONT TIRES ARE ANGLED IN. *TR
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-05
- VIN: KNAGD126X25
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: MY TIRE HAD STARTED BENDING INWARD AT THE TOP, AND OUTWARD AT THE BOTTOM. MY CAR STARTED GOING OUT OF ALIGNMENT. I TOOK IT TO A SHOP, AND THEY FOUND OUT MY SUB FRAME WAS RUSTED AND WORN OUT. THEY ALSO FOUND OUT THAT THE SUB FRAME HAD BEEN RECALLED IN 2009, BUT APPARENTLY NOT ON MY EXACT VEHICLE. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-15
- VIN: KNAGD128725
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO DRIVE IN A STRAIGHT LINE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE BUT REFUSED TO PROVIDE ANY ASSISTANCE SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V183000 (SUSPENSION). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 95,000.
STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-02-15
- VIN: KNAGD126025
- Components: STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: FRONT DOOR FAILS TO UNLOCK AFTER MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS. DOOR MUST BE UNLOCKED WITH A KEY, USING THE POWER LOCKS OR MANUALLY FLIPPING THE DOOR LOCK DOESN'T DO IT, AND THE KEY ONLY UNLOCKS IT APPROXIMATELY 1 OUT OF EVERY 20 TRIES. THERE ARE MULTIPLE COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS ONLINE, SEE FOR INSTANCE: HTTP://WWW.KIA-FORUMS.COM/1G-2G-2001-2006-MAGENTIS-OPTIMA/47179-2004-OPTIMA-DOOR-LOCK-FAULT.HTML. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-02-09
- VIN: KNAGD126025
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I RECEIVED A CALL FROM MY 16 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER THAT SHE HAD A FLAT TIRE ON HER FRONT DRIVER SIDE. SHE IS ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD IN THE DARK AND COLD I GOT DRESSED WENT THERE AND CHANGED IT, SO GO THE NEXT MORNING AND TAKE A LOOK AT IT IN LIGHT WHAT I FOUND IS VERY UPSETTING, THE WHOLE FRAME WHERE LOWER CONTROL (ARM BOLTS ON COMPLETELY RUSTED AWAY. I FOUND OUT THAT AFTER RESEARCH A FACTORY RECALL WAS ON IT, I CALLED AUFFENBURG KIA IN CAPE GIRARDEAU MISSOURI I WAS TOLD THAT THE CAR HAD BEEN RECALLED AND REPAIRED IN 12/28/0 9 AND I COULD BRING IT THERE BUT THEY ARE NOT GOING TO BE ABLE TOO FIX IT BECAUSE OF ITS ALREADY BEEN DONE BEFORE, I SAID WHY DID IT HAPPEN AGAIN HE WOULDN'T GIVE ME A ANSWER EXCEPT THAT THE COMPUTER SAID IT WAS OK AND I COULDN'T SPEAK WITH HIS BOSS UNTIL NEXT WEEK. I SAID WHAT IF MY DAUGHTER DIED IN A WRECK BECAUSE OF IT ALL HE SAID WAS KIA WOULD SAY THAT THEY ALREADY FIXED IT AND WOULD NOT BE LIABLE. I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHAT IF ANYTHING I CAN DO ABOUT THIS OR AM I JUST OVER A BARREL WITH KIA AND THERE JUNK. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-29
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATED AS THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE CRANK SHAFT SENSOR WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 65,500.
2002 Kia Optima recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2002 Kia Optima.
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS CORPORATION
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT
- Summary: KIA MOTORS CORPORATION (KMC) IS RECALLING 36,538 MODEL YEAR 2001-2004 OPTIMA VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. ROAD SALT APPLIED IN THESE STATES DURING THE WINTER MONTHS MAY RESULT IN PROGRESSIVE, INTERNAL CORROSION OF THE FRONT SUBFRAME. OVER TIME, SUCH SUBFRAME CORROSION NEAR THE CONNECTION TO THE LOWER CONTROL ARM CAN LEAD TO WHEEL MISALIGNMENT AND/OR OTHER NOTICEABLE STRESS IN STEERING, OR ACCELERATED ABNORMAL TIRE WEAR.
- Consequence: CORROSION OF THE FRONT SUBFRAME COULD LEAD TO SEPARATION, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: KMC WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 15, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA'S CONSUMER ASSISTANCE CENTER AT 1-800-333-4542.
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: SOME PASSENGER VEHICLES MAY CONTAIN A FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY VALVE THAT MAY NOT CLOSE PROPERLY. IF A VEHICLE WITH A FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY VALVE THAT IS NOT PROPERLY CLOSED WERE TO ROLL OVER, FUEL SPILLAGE MAY OCCUR.
- Consequence: FUEL SPILLAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL AN ADDITIONAL FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY VALVE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 25, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.5 AND 2.7 LITER V6 ENGINES, THE CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR (CKP) CASES DID NOT MEET DIMENSIONAL SPECIFICATIONS.
- Consequence: INTERNAL GAPS WITHIN THE CASES ALLOWED EPOXY TO CONTACT THE PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD, WHICH RESULTED IN CRACKING OF THE CIRCUIT BOARD CAPACITOR. A DAMAGED CKP CAPACITOR COULD RESULT IN ENGINE STALLING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CKP. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 28, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
Negative 2002 Kia Optima car reviews
Positive 2002 Kia Optima car reviews
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You've found the best overall value!
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Bought as a second car for my wife, this Toyota offers excellent value for money. While some of the interior materials are in line with the price point, the fit, finish, and durability are far above what we expected. We are definitely considering purchasing another one in the future. It's a great car!
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As part of the trade for dealer miles, the dealer recommended a great detail shop to tint the windows, making the car look exceptionally sharp. I recently spent a year in Korea where these cars are used as taxis (and they drive them a lot), and every one I rode in was just as smooth as mine (including the engine). The only issue I've had was with the bushing in the steering column, which had dried out and caused the steering to groan as if low on power steering fluid. However, one trip to the dealer identified and fixed the problem by lubricating the joint. Overall, it was an excellent buy for the money, especially when compared to other cars in the same class.
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I have had this car for one year with no problems yet. It is very responsive on the highway and in the city. I love the sport shift. It's a very comfortable and quiet car. The only issue I see with it is the resale value, which is quite low. However, only time will tell on reliability. After one year and 45000 miles, owning this car has been a pleasure.
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Bought new. We've been to the dealer twice for warranty work, once for power window motors and once on emission recall. In our book, it's a 10! The only downside is that it doesn't hold its resale value well. But other than that, it's one sweet ride.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Kia Optima problems:
2002 Kia Optima Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Problem with your 2002 Kia Optima? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 Kia Optima.
2002 Kia Optima Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2002 Kia Optima? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Common Kia Optima Engine Problems - Q&A for 2004 Kia Optima LX
Jun 5, 2011 ... Having problems with 2004 Kia Optima ^ cyl engine. - Answered by a verified Kia Mechanic.
05 Kia Optima Driver door won't open | Kia Forum
Jan 9, 2014 ... My 2002 Kia Optima is having issues with the antenna and radio. When I turn my car on the antenna automatically goes up and when I turn it off ...
Anyone have experience with a 2005 Kia Optima/Magentis? : r/kia
Jan 3, 2022 ... If you guys know any weakpoints, common problems ... r/kia · Kia Optima 3rd Gen Reliability. 5 ... 1997 Lexus ES300 vs 2002 model. 1 upvote · 3 ...
Other years of Kia Optima
Are you having problems with your 2002 Kia Optima?
Matteo Nikolaus 2024-09-19
I have been driving this car for three years now, and I am looking forward to upgrading soon. Unfortunately, I have had to spend around $1k a year on repairs, not including routine maintenance. The car requires frequent oil changes, and it needs to be handled with care. While it is a comfortable and stylish car, it has proven to be unreliable, with interior components falling apart and tires wearing out quickly due to a factory recall on the rusting subframe. It can be challenging to find a mechanic who knows how to work on it, and parts are often unavailable and need to be ordered. If you are looking for a reliable car, I would recommend a Hyundai. My brother's car has lasted much longer than mine.
Theo Kemmer 2024-08-10
The car is definitely inexpensive, much cheaper than a comparable Camry or Accord. However, as with most things, you get what you pay for. The engine is a bit louder than the Accord and Camry, and the transmission can be slow to respond in sportronic mode, but it's okay in full automatic. The seats are good enough for the price, and the styling is quite good. If you trust the Koreans, then why not give it a try?
Marcus Ernser 2024-06-07
Hi there! I recently purchased a former rental Optima from a local dealership. Unfortunately, I've had to take it in for some minor issues five times since December of 03. These included a window regulator, knock sensor, recall on emissions, speakers not working, and a door lock switch. However, despite these issues, I must say that the car is very nice to drive and quite comfortable.
Clark Sauer 2024-03-16
We had a minor issue with our Optima where the passenger side window would get stuck if the door was closed with the window open. However, after the second visit to the dealership, the problem was resolved. We also had some concerns with the way the transmission shifted. The dealership informed us that since the car was a demo, the electronic transmission never had a chance to 'learn' the driver's preferences. Overall, the car has been a great purchase, although I would prefer a little more pick-up. It would have been even better if we had waited one more year to buy, as the 2003 model comes with the Infinity stereo, a garage door opener, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror, all as standard features.