2007 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 2007 Kia Optima problems
The Kia Optima 2007 is known for several common problems that have been reported by its owners. These issues include engine problems, starter problems, faulty door latches, faulty throttle position switches (TPS), and weak alternators.
Engine problems are one of the most common issues in the Kia Optima 2007. The engine manufacturing and failure issues have caused its bearings to wear prematurely, leading to uncontrollable engine seizing and increasing the risk of accidents. In 2017, Kia issued a recall to help owners repair or replace their affected Optima engines for free.
Starter problems are also prevalent in the Kia Optima 2007. 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.
Faulty door latches are another common problem in the Kia Optima 2007. The cause of this issue is a faulty door latch assembly, making it very difficult to open the vehicle doors from both the inside and outside of the car. Simply replacing the worn latch will often be all it takes to address the problem.
Faulty throttle position switches (TPS) are also known issues in the Kia Optima 2007. The main symptoms of a faulty 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. Kia has taken steps to improve the necessary parts which tends to resolve this issue.
Weak alternators are also a common problem in the Kia Optima 2007. 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. Kia has released a new alternator that owners can purchase and install to resolve this problem.
Overall, these common problems in the Kia Optima 2007 can be frustrating and costly for owners. However, by being aware of these issues and taking preventative measures, such as regular maintenance and timely repairs, owners can help ensure their vehicle's longevity and reliability.
Is Kia Optima 2007 a good car?
2007 Kia Optima Review
If you're looking for a four-door sedan with responsive driving capabilities, a lot of features and an attractive price, the Optima should be on your shopping list. It's handsome, offers impressive safety features and represents a good value for the money.
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.
What year Kia Optimas have engine problems?
The Worst Years: 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014
2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014 are undoubtedly the worst Kia Optima years you should avoid at any cost. The 2011 Kia Optima year was notably afflicted with engine, transmission, and exterior lighting issues.
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.
2007 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:
- Air bags problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Visibility/wiper problems
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2007 Kia Optima vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2007 Kia Optima
The NHTSA has received 165 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2007 Kia Optima. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2007 Kia Optima vehicles.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-19
- VIN: KNAGE124775
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: My headlights are preventing me from passing motor vehicle inspection low beam are on doesn't look like their on so I have to drive with high beams and with that no one flashes me. Because all four are on but u can't tell if the low ones on it looks like I just have my parking lights on.
POWER TRAIN,SEAT BELTS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-02
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KNAGE124X75
- Components: POWER TRAIN,SEAT BELTS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: My vehicle speed up and slow down all that itself. It will not maintain speed even with my foot steady on the gas. It will not accelerate, but the major problem is my seatbelt gets stuck all the time I’m afraid to get buckled. I am unable to remove my seatbelt multiple times so now I have buckled my seatbelt behind me so I can start getting tickets. I’ve gotten like four tickets because I’m scared to be buckled that it’s not gonna come on down when I need it to be I’ve got 40 bought tickets. I was going about 20 mph when I went to the brakes for my vehicle accelerated by itself crashing into a pillar at the mall. I did call the police.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-30
- VIN: KNAGE123075
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: headlights very dim . replaced bulbs . replaced wiring harness. replaced alternater . still dim . cannot see more than a few feet at night. have heard this is a common problem . would like any info to correct problem .no longer safe to drive vehicle at night. please reply asap.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-31
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KNAGE124375
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2007 KIA OPTIMA. CONSUMER STATED THAT THE AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY DURING COLLISION. THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED AND TAKEN TO THE JUNKYARD DUE TO THE PROGRAMMING DEFECT.
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-13
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KNAGE124375
- Components: AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The contact owned a 2007 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving at 5-10 MPH, the vehicle before her vehicle slowed down suddenly. The contact slammed the brakes and the air bags deployed and deflated. However, the brake pedal hesitated to respond and became soft, causing the contact to crash into the vehicle in front of her. The contact was unsure whether there were warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that it appeared that the air bag deployment overrode the brake system and caused the stopping distance delay. There were no injuries sustained. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. The vehicle was totaled. A police report was filed. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. The contact stated that what appeared to be a deflated airbag blocked her view of the road in the same moment that she slammed on the brakes. There was a delay in the brakes actually stopping the vehicle so as a result, her vehicle hit the vehicle in front of it. The vehicle is now a total loss. The contact was not aware that the dealer and manufacturer were supposed to be notified of this incident.
POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-15
- VIN: KNAGE123975
- Components: POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: I'VE SEEN IN OTHER FORUMS ABOUT ENGINE RECALLS. I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED AND THE ENGINE IN MY CAR DISINTEGRATED. IT WAS REPLACED WITH AN ENGINE FROM A WRECKING YARD. THIS SHOULD BE COVERED BY MANUFACTURER. I HAD ISSUES WITH THE BRAKE LINES RUSTING OUT. THIS SHOULD NOT HAVE HAPPENED EITHER. NOT BEING ABLE TO SERVICE THE TRANSMISSION AND ARGUING WITH THE DEALERSHIP ABOUT THIS SHOULD BE REPLACED BY MANUFACTURER!
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-20
- VIN: KNAGE123X75
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: MY LOW BEAM LIGHTS HAVE NO VISIBILITY AND I HAVE BEEN RESEARCHING ONLINE USED HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY BECAUSE IT COSTS $400 FOR BOTH SIDES THAT I DONT HAVE I REPLACED MY LOW AND HIGH BEAM BULBS THE HIGH BEAMS WORK JUST FINE BUT AS I WAS DOING RESEARCH A HIGH PERCENTAGE OF THIS MAKE AND MODEL HAVE THE SAME REOCCURRING PROBLEM I SEEN WHERE THEY HAVE RECALLED 2011 AND UP FOR THIS PROBLEM BUT I GUESS DECIDED TO NOT WORRY ABOUT THE OLDER MODELS I CAN UNDERSTAND THAT BUT THAT IS MY ONLY MEANS OF TRANSPORTATION FOR WORK AND MY DAUGHTERS NOW IT IS GETTING DARKER EARLIER AND I CAN'T AFFORD TO DRIVE AROUND WITH MY BRIGHT LIGHTS ON AND THE AIR BAG LIGHT WILL NOT GO OFF
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-05-18
- VIN: KNAGE124375
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: AFTER FUELING VEHICLE WILL NOT RUN. KEEPS DYING FOR UP TO TWO DAYS. DRIVES FOR A FEW SECOND THEN DIES WHILE DRIVING
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-05
- VIN: KNAGE123475
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE BURNS OUT BLINKER BULBS AND HEADLIGHTS AT AN EXTREMELY ACCELERATED RATE: ONE A MONTH. ADDITIONALLY, THE WIRING HARNESS IS HEATED TO THE POINT OF BEING MELTED. THIS IS A FIRE HAZARD. I BELIEVE THIS MAY BE A VOLTAGE REGULATION OR GROUND ISSUE.
SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-21
- VIN: KNAGE123575
- Components: SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE AIR BAG JUST CAME ON A COUPLE DAYS AGO . IT HASN'T BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT OR ANYTHING. THE SUSPENSION IS ROUGH WHEN DRIVING OVER THE SMALLEST THING IN THE ROAD. SOMETIMES IT JUST MAKES A LITTLE JUMP WHEN IT TASKED GAS.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-14
- VIN: KNAGE123X75
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: HEADLIGHTS VERY DIM NO MATTER WHAT BULB YOU PUT IT. CANNOT SEE MORE THAN 3FT IN FRONT OF YOU WHEN DRIVING AT NIGHT. VISITED DO NOT STAY UP FALL DOWN BLOCKING VIEW
STRUCTURE,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-14
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KNAGE123675
- Components: STRUCTURE,ENGINE
- Summary: ON SATURDAY 9/14/19 MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY WHEN SHE HEARD A NOISE AND THE CHECK ENGINE/OIL LIGHT CAME ON AND THEN A DRIVER PULLED UP NEXT TO HER AND TOLD HER THAT THE CAR WAS ON FIRE. THE ENGINE ENDED UP IN FULL FLAMES.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-01
- VIN: KNAGE123X75
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: HEAD LIGHT ARE DIM AND HAVE NO VISABILTY
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-12-20
- VIN: KNAGE123X75
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: THE AIR BAG LIGHT STAYS ON ALL THE TIME 1 THE PASSENGER AIRBAG LIGHT WILL SAY ON WITH AN ADULT SITTING IN THE SEAT!!1 VISORS DO NOT STAY UP! HEADLIGHTS ARE VERY DIM . I'VE CHANGED THEM OUT TO A FEW DIFFERENT TYPES STILL DIM CANNOT SEE AT NIGHT
AIR BAGS,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-16
- VIN: KNAGE123675
- Components: AIR BAGS,ENGINE
- Summary: MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON. AT FIRST IT WOULD GO OFF AND ON WITH NO CODE. NOW IT STAYS ON WITH THE CODE P0420 FOR THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. ALSO I HEARD ABOUT AN AIR BAG RECALL
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-23
- VIN: KNAGE123575
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THE CADILLAC CONVERTER IS GATHERING SOOT BUILD UP ACCORDING TO THE GARAGE. NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. IS CAUSING THE ENGINE LIGHT TO STAY ON.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-21
- VIN: KNAGE123975
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: MY KIA OPTIMA BEGAN CONSUMING LARGE AMOUNTS OF OIL BUT IT WASN'T LEAKING OUT OR BURNING OFF ANYWHERE. I BEGAN TO WATCH THE OIL LEVELS CLOSELY AND WAS DOWN 2 QTS EVERY WEEK. AT SOME POINT THE OIL PRESSURE GOT TOO LOW AND WE THINK SUCKED AIR INTO THE ENGINE. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND THEN OFF AGAIN AS IT HAS BEEN FOR THE PPAST YR BUT FOR AN EVAP PROBLEM - A VERY SMALL LEAK KEPT GETTING DETECTED. I SPENT $1800 AT FIRESTONE THE PREVIOUS UR THE COLDER KEPT COMING BACK ON AND OFF. BUT THIS DIDN'T EXPLAIN THE SIDDEN MASSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION. SUDDENLY ON OCT. 21 MY CAR SUDDENLY IDLED VERY HIGH WITHOUT MOVING AND THE THE CHECK LIGHT CAME ON AGAIN AND STAYED ON. THE ENGINE BEGAN TO KNOCK LOUDLY ESPECIALLY WHEN ACCELLERATING OR CLIMBING HILLS. MY MECHANIC FRIEND TOLD ME ONE OF THE ENGINE RODS WAS DAMAGED AND THE COMPUTER CODE CHECK VERIFIED THAT THE CRANKSHAFT TIMING OIL CONTROL VALVE WAS NOT WORKING PROPERLY. THIS WOULD EXPLAIN THE LOW OIL PRESSURE AND DAMAGE TO THE ENGINE. I WAS ABLE TO FIND THE PROBLEM ON KIA'S WEBSITE WITH MANY COMPLAINTS REGARDING THE SAME ISSUE. KIA HAD A RECALL REGARDING THIS PROBLEM FOR MANY OF THEIR CARS BUT OF COURSE NOT MINE. I WAS VERY UPSET OVER IT. I HAD GOTTEN THE CAR ONLY 3 YEARS PRIOR AND IT ONLY HAD 150K MILES ON IT. I TOOK REALLY GOOD CARE OF IT. KIA SAID THEY COULD DO NOTHING. MY ONLY OPTION WAS TO JUNK THE CAR AND HAVE TO BUY A NEW WHEN I WASN'T IN A POSITION TO DO SO. KIA HAS DISAPPOINTED ME GREATLY. BECAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM I MAY NEVER BUT ANOTHER KIA. I WAS SO EXCITED ABOUT GETTING MY KIA AS IT HAD ALL THE FEATURES I WANTED IN A CAR AND AT A VERY GOOD PRICE BUT IT IIS ONLY GOOD IF IT RUNS. THIS PROBLEM SHOULD HAVE BEEN INCLUDED IN THW RECALL FOR MY CAR AS IT IS A HUGE PROBLEM AS I READ COMPLAINT AFTER COMPLAINT ONLINE FROM OTHER KIA OPTIMA OWNERS. THE ENGINE COMPUTER CODE THAT CAME UP WAS PO600011
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-27
- VIN: KNAGE123475
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS ARE TOO DIM. TRIED REPLACING THE BULBS, BUT NO CHANGE. CLEANED THE OUTER LENS TO IMPROVE CLARITY AND GET RID OF YELLOWING. BUT DID NOT HELP. THE OUTER LENS LOOKS JUST FINE. WHEN I REMOVED THE ASSEMBLY TO CHECK IF THERE'S ANYTHING WRONG INSIDE, I WAS SHOCKED. THE PROJECTOR BOWL HAD CAUGHT RUST ON BOTH SIDES, THUS CAUSING POOR REFLECTIVITY AND LOW LIGHT ON THE ROAD. TURNS OUT EVERY 2006/2007 OPTIMA OWNER HAS HAD THE SAME ISSUE. I FOUND THIS OUT WHEN I LOOKED ONLINE TO PURCHASE A NEW ASSEMBLY.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-11
- VIN: KNAGE123475
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I WAS AT THE GAS STATION AND MY SON NOTICED THAT MY BRAKE LIGHTS WERE STILL ON, THE CAR WAS COMPLETELY CUT OFF. THEY WOULD NOT GO OFF. I HAD TO TAKE OUT THE FUSE TO CUT THEM OFF WHEN I GOT HOME LATER THAT NIGHT. I NOTICED THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THE BRAKE SWITCH, BUT, THE RECALL STARTED FOR 08. I HAVE AN 07. WHY WASN'T THE 07 INCLUDED IN THE RECALL?
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-20
- VIN: KNAGE123675
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: AIR BAG LIGHT COMES ON AND WON'T TURN OFF ... OTHER PROBLEM IS BOTH VISORS WON'T SPRING UP FLOPPED DOWN ... THE INTERNET IS BUZZING ABOUT KIA'S LACK OF CONCERN!!
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-05-04
- VIN: KNAGE123075
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: ENGINE TAPS EVEN AFTER AN OIL CHANGE. HAD A MECHANIC LOOK AT IT SAID IT WAS MY ENGINE THE BACK END. SAID THAT THEIR WAS A RECALL ON MY ENGINE BECAUSE HE HAS HAD TO REPLACE SEVERAL OF THEM ALREADY. LOOKED IT UP AND THERE IS NO RECALL. THIS HAPPENS WHILE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, STATIONARY.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-07
- VIN: KNAGE123075
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL. MY AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON IN THE SUMMER OF 2017 AND HASN'T GONE OUT SINCE. I HAVE NEVER HIT ANYTHING TO MAKE THE AIR BAG LIGHT COME ON. I HAVE HAD SEVERAL PLACES HOOK MY CAR TO THEIR TESTING MACHINES AND NOTHING COMES UP ON THEIR MACHINE.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-18
- VIN: KNAGE123875
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: EVER SINCE WE GOT THIS CAR IT HAS BEEN IN 2 ACCIDENTS DUE TO THE RAIN, WHEN I STARTED TO LOOK INTO WHAT WAS CAUSING THIS PROBLEM I NOTICED THERE IS A HOLE IN THE PLASTIC RIGHT BELOW THE OIL FILTER. THIS ALLOWS WATER TO GET ON THE ENGINE CAUSING IT TO SHORT POWER FOR THE CAR. THIS IN RETURN CAUSES THE POWER STEERING TO CEASE UP MAKING IT NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO CONTROL THE CAR, HENCE WHY IT HAS BEEN IN TWO ACCIDENTS; ONE THAT PUT MY MOTHER IN THE HOSPITAL A FEW YEARS BACK. THE LAST TIME THIS HAPPENED WAS YESTERDAY BUT ENOUGH IS ENOUGH, THIS FLAW IS A DEADLY PROBLEM.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-01
- VIN: KNAGE123075
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: BOTH DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE VISORS FAILED AND ARE FLOPPING. THIS IS A DANGEROUS SITUATION. THE VISOR IS OBSTRUCTING MY VIEW, AND HITTING MY HEAD. I CAN'T SEE. THE FAULTY PART HAS BEEN RE-DESIGNED....WHY NO RECALL??? I HAVE INSTRUCTED MY FAMILY THAT IF I AM INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT TO SUE KIA SINCE THEY HAVE KNOW ABOUT THIS PROBLEM FOR YEARS!!! PASSEGER SIDE 2010, DRIVER'S SIDE 10/2017. I AM HOLDING THE VISORS UP WITH BUNGEE CORDS!!!! THIS IS A KNOW PROBLEM WITH THESE KIAS!!!!!
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-26
- VIN: KNAGE123075
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DRIVER'S SIDE VISOR BROKE.... PASSENGER SIDE PREVIOUSLY BROKEN I FILED A COMPLAINT YEARS AGO....NO CONTACT FROM KIA. THIS IS DANGEROUS!!!! IT IS A KNOWN PROBLEM! KIA REDESIGNED THE SPRING....WHY ISN'T THIS BEING RECALLED?! I WAS PULLING INTO A PARKING SPOT WHEN IT BROKE.
2007 Kia Optima recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2007 Kia Optima.
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS CORPORATION
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC. (KIA) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2008 KIA OPTIMA VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 29, 2005, THROUGH JANUARY 29, 2008, AND MODEL YEAR 2007 AND 2008 KIA RONDO VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 13, 2006, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2008. THE CLOCK SPRING CONTACT ASSEMBLY FOR THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) MAY BECOME DAMAGED THROUGH USAGE OVER TIME. IF THE CLOCK SPRING CONTACT ASSEMBLY BECOMES DAMAGED, THE DRIVER'S AIR BAG ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT WILL EXPERIENCE A HIGH RESISTANCE CONDITION POTENTIALLY CAUSING THE DRIVER'S AIR BAG TO NOT DEPLOY.
- Consequence: IF THE CLOCK SPRING DEVELOPS HIGH RESISTANCE, IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE DRIVERS AIR BAG WILL NOT DEPLOY AND WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PROPERLY PROTECT THE DRIVER, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURIES.
- Remedy: KIA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE VEHICLE'S AIR BAG CLOCK SPRING CONTACT ASSEMBLY, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 11, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE CENTER AT 1-800-333-4542.
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS CORPORATION
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:COLUMN SHIFT
- Summary: KIA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2008 OPTIMA VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 29, 2005, THROUGH JUNE 13, 2007. THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE SHIFT CABLE MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED INCORRECTLY, CAUSING TENSION IN THE CABLE. IF PRESENT, THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE CABLE TO DETACH FROM THE SHIFTER ASSEMBLY'S DOWEL PIN PREVENTING THE TRANSMISSION FROM BEING SHIFTED. THE SHIFT LEVER CAN THEN BE MOVED INTO THE PARK (P) POSITION WHILE THE VEHICLE'S TRANSMISSION IS STILL IN THE LAST USED GEAR BEFORE DETACHMENT.
- Consequence: IF THE DRIVER LEAVES THE VEHICLE WITHOUT ENGAGING THE PARKING BRAKE, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE VEHICLE CAN ROLL INJURE A PERSON IN ITS PATH OR CAUSE A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE SHIFT CABLE AND REINSTALL IF NECESSARY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 23, 2011. OWNER MAY CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
Negative 2007 Kia Optima car reviews
Positive 2007 Kia Optima car reviews
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I purchased this car brand new in 2007 because other sedans with standard safety features like curtain airbags and stability control were too expensive. I have had no problems with the car, only with my own driving. The car is very spacious, which is impressive considering I am 6'4 and need a lot of leg and knee room. The steering wheel audio controls are intuitive and easy to use. The transmission is very smooth and the headlights are great, with halogen lights. The only thing I regret is not getting the sunroof. If this car gets wrecked, I would definitely look for a used one. Kia and Hyundai offer great value for the money and easily compete with the Camry. I highly recommend this car.
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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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Impressed so far. It's enjoyable to drive and I love having leather in a car that costs only 16 thousand dollars. I couldn't find a better value anywhere else. It's thousands cheaper than a Fusion.
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My mom has one she got it 5 years ago Its a 2007 mod and had 40,000 miles on it.not it has roughly 108k miles on it.Now for the past week, its been having trouble starting, once it took me 3 times to start it up but its been a good car.We haven't had any real serious problems with it, never had to replace a head gasket or trans. just simple things that are needed with every car, brakes, tires, oil etc. we've had a lot of problems with the lights blowing front and back. but I dont know if it had been wrecked before we got it or if its just the tires but it pulls to the right and after we got new tires it pulled even harder, but other than that its a great little car, has a lot of room
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When I bought this car new back in 2007, I was a bit apprehensive. However, the 10 year/100,000 mile warranty gave me the confidence to give it a try. I have been more than pleased with my decision. Since I've had the car, I have had ZERO major issues. I just recently had the struts replaced, but I could have probably gone longer without touching them. My prior car to this one was a General Motors car that was one issue after another. This one has been great!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2007 Kia Optima problems:
2007 Kia Optima Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
Top 2007 Kia Optima Problems · Door Locks Malfunction Not Allowing Driver or Passanger to Open Their Doors · Faulty Throttle Position Switch · Software Update ...
2007 Kia Optima just bought with various issues | Kia Forum
Feb 7, 2018 ... 2007 Kia Optima just bought with various issues · 1 bad headlight bulbs · 2 the low beam relay · 3 the low beam fuse · 4 the low beam wiring to ...
I'm looking at buying a used 2007 Kia Optima. Is this car good for a ...
Mar 12, 2018 ... The car has 144000 miles on it. If you have any experience with this car or know any common issues with it, I would greatly appreciate it.
2007 kia optima loses acceleration while driving
Jul 20, 2020 ... I would honestly first address the no start without a jump, as basic electrical issues starting with the 12 volt battery and the charging system ...
What is the general reliability of a 2007 Kia Optima LX? : r/askcarsales
Feb 10, 2020 ... It's going to find anything comparable. 5500 for a car that has been well maintained seems pretty good. Waiting will only increase the chance it ...
Other years of Kia Optima
Are you having problems with your 2007 Kia Optima?
Domenic Powlowski 2025-02-26
I have owned seven cars in my life and unfortunately, my Kia Optima has not lived up to my expectations. I have had to replace the automatic transmission three times and based on other reviews, it seems like the engine may not be far behind. While I would not recommend this car, I do want to caution others to make sure they service their vehicle at the dealership to avoid any issues with warranty coverage. Unfortunately, I had to pay for a rebuilt transmission which cost me over $2,500.
Monroe Bogisich 2025-02-24
I have experienced issues with my transmission and head gasket, which have required replacement. Despite these challenges, I am confident in the quality of my vehicle and its ability to perform well in the future.
Edison Lesch 2025-02-02
I have experienced several issues with my 2007 Kia Optima. Despite having a warranty, the process of maintaining it has been challenging and expensive. Recently, the engine and transmission were replaced, but unfortunately, the car is still not running smoothly. The dealership has assured me that they have completed all the necessary work that Kia would cover.
Floy Lehner 2025-01-05
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.
Eusebio Lang 2024-11-23
Kia must address the recurring issues with their five-speed automatic transmissions, as I have had to replace mine twice. Additionally, I have required AAA roadside assistance on three separate occasions, twice for transmission issues and once for a failed starter.