2011 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 2011 Kia Optima problems
The 2011 Kia Optima has been reported to have several common problems, with engine failure being the most significant issue.
Another common problem with the 2011 Kia Optima is engine stalling, which is most likely caused by a high-pressure fuel pump leak. This issue led to a recall in 2018, indicating that it was a significant problem for some owners.
In addition to engine problems, the 2011 Kia Optima has also been reported to have issues with stiff steering. This problem is often caused by a steering fluid leak, which can lead to clicking sounds in the steering column and stiff turning. While there have been no recalls issued for steering fluid leakage, it is still a common problem that can be attributed to normal wear and tear in a decade-old car.
The 2011 Kia Optima has also had issues with its high-pressure fuel pipe, which may be linked to engine stalls. This problem has led to over 500 complaints with the NHTSA, making it the most common engine problem for this model year.
Overall, while the 2011 Kia Optima has had several common problems, many of these issues have been addressed through recalls and other corrective actions. However, potential buyers should still be aware of these issues and consider the costs of potential repairs before making a purchase.
What is the most common problem with the 2011 Kia Optima?
There are four recalls affecting the 2011 Optima. Including the stop lamp switch, bearing wear in the engine, airbags, and high-pressure fuel pipe leaks. Most serious is engine bearing wear, which causes the high number of failures.
Are 2011 Kia Optimas good cars?
Overall handling for the Optima is hardly memorable, but it's certainly pleasant and better than average for the segment. Both of the regular four-cylinder engines are impressive. They produce best-in-class power and are paired with responsive and smooth-shifting transmissions.
How many miles will a 2011 Kia Optima last?
200,000 miles
If you take good care of your Kia Optima, it can easily go beyond 100,000 miles. If you follow its regular maintenance and service schedule properly, it can last up to 200,000 miles.
What years did Kia Optima have engine problems?
A Kia Theta engine lawsuit has been filed concerning alleged engine problems in the 2011-2014 Kia Optima, 2011-2014 Kia Sportage and the 2012-2014 Kia Sorento.
2011 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:
- Engine problems
- Steering problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2011 Kia Optima vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2011 Kia Optima
The NHTSA has received 572 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2011 Kia Optima. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2011 Kia Optima vehicles.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-24
- VIN: KNAGN4A75B5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Optima. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
SUSPENSION,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-19
- VIN: KNAGR4A62B5
- Components: SUSPENSION,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: After getting HECU recall done , it has caused issues with the HECU module to where the brake lights no longer work and the ESC light comes on the cluster panel. Up on reading the code C2130, it says Brake lamp relay error. Mind you that my car was in working order before this recall was even done. This a huge safety issue not having your brake lights work. I can get rear-ended and i have kids in the car. This has been a issue since July when i got the recall done and KIA has yet to find a fix for this matter.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-30
- VIN: KNAGM4A76B5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: 2 weeks ago my 2011 Kia Optima's engine died while driving. I am the 2nd owner of the car and bought it in summer of 2022 (not 2020). Before buying the car private sale, I sought my mechanics advice who told me Kia engines had issues going back to 2011. Before buying, my brother called the closest Kia dealership to confirm the owner was telling the truth that he had taken the car in for all safety recalls. Kia told my brother the engine and vehicle belonging to the VIN he provided were good to go and that the engine recalls were done. After my car died, I had it towed to my mechanic and was told the engine was bad. I called Russ Darrow Kia and informed them of the situation. I don't recall who I spoke with, but I asked about the recalls and any red flags that would void any warranties on the engine. I was told there were none and I should have the car towed to have them do an engine inspection. On September 7th, I called Kia because I had not heard anything about my car. I was told an inspection was done but the warranty was voided because a recall for NOX sensor had not been done. I called Kia consumer and spoke with a supervisor who just read a template of the Federal Lawsuit and how due to the voided warranty, Kia would not replace my engine. I explained how I had called prior to buying the car and confirmed the engine was up to date with any recalls and I had not received any recall notices for the NOX sensor nor any others pertaining to the engine. I only ever received a recall notice about the anti theft software. The supervisor was extremely insensitive toward me and told me there were numerous recalls and that whomever I called at Kia would have never told me the car was good to go. I would've taken it in if I knew about the recall, or any other. They are refusing to replace the engine. Kia is charging me $190 for their diagnosis and a quote on a replacement engine. The car was well maintained with prompt oil changes. I feel like I'm being scammed.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-31
- VIN: KNAGR4A61B5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I have gone to two Kia Dealers to get my recall on the HECU fixed and they will not help me. I was told that they did not have the part and did not know when they were receiving the part. I also called Kia and they were no help either. What next steps can I take to get this matter resolved. Thank you
STEERING,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-24
- VIN: KNAGM4A77B5
- Components: STEERING,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: 1- Steering wheel. Yes 2- Not sure if something was going to happen while driving whether da or night or long distance traveling 3- I spoke with the service center a while back and didn't have a good time to bring it by. 4- No No just loud shaking from the steering wheel. It's been going on for at least a month
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-26
- VIN: KNAGM4A77B5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Mi carro estaba bien ninguna luz de testigos prendidos de pronto iba por la carretera conduciendo se freno y se apago gracias a Dios no ocurrió ningún accidente. Lo volví a prender sonaba el motor como si tuviera un tic tac y se prendió las luces de testigo de motor.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-19
- VIN: KNAGR4A6XB5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: May 13, 2024, we received a letter from Kia America that parts were available to correct the fire hazard detailed in NHTSA Recall Number 23V652000. This followed the Interim notice that was communicated to us on November 12, 2023. Around June 1, we made an appointment to perform the recall work on [XXX] at Classic Kia in Texarkana, TX. After a two hour wait on [XXX], we were informed that the replacement part was not available. They apologized and said that they would order the part and let up know as soon as possible when the repair could be made. On June 20, we followed up with the Service Manager and were told the part would arrive the next day and he would call and confirm a new appointment. Rather than doing this, on June 21, we were told that the part was unavailable and on back order, they didn't know when the part would be available. They hoped it would be in a week or two and they would call us when it was available. It seems unacceptable that the replacement part for such a serious safety concern is not immediately available given the time frames involved. Kia had six months to plan the solution, we provided approximately 3 weeks for the dealership to order the part, and we are still being told that it could be more than 2 weeks before it is available. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-15
- VIN: KNAGM4A7XB5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Unknown
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-19
- VIN: KNAGR4A60B5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: Recall states to not drive vehicle due to HECU which can result in an engine compartment fire. I have contacted 3 dealerships and corporate. There are 15,000 dealerships/service centers that have technology/technical issues. I have spent 3 days, and 12 hours trying to get assistance. I'm being told corporate is not providing any additional support or payment to individually owned dealerships. Expecting them to cover additional expenses. I am disabled and need to go to treatments/procedures multiple times a week. They are backed up 1-2 months for an appointment. Consumers are to pay everything up front and then 90 days later request a reimbursement. They will not provide or pay for a rental or loaner car until the car is being serviced. Therefore they are leaving me with no vehicle for up to 2 months as their letter clearly states that the vehicle is not to be driven and is unsafe. I should not be inconvenienced because Kia made a mistake and is now having to perform a recall, 15,000 stores are not able to perform because of technical issues, they are so far behind in their service appointments which should not have any effect on me and I should not be responsible to pay for any of this and they should absolutely provide me with the vehicle and not leave me with no transportation for 2+months. I am unable to get to my appts. for treatments, my daughter cannot Drive to work. And they have absolutely no solution for me and telling me that there is nothing that can be done other than me paying $45/day out of pocket. they Stated that I personally would be charged to do a full diagnostic test to confirm that there are no safety issues, however corporate stated that it was required in order to get my car back. This has been an absolute nightmare, I am also wanting to know if ada would get involved in something like this as they are not making any type of reasonable accommodation for me. There has to be a law preventing this that they are required to provide a vehicle unt
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-25
- VIN: KNAGR4A6XB5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Optima. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-14
- VIN: KNAGR4A65B5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Optima. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KNAGM4AD6B5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact called on behalf of an insurer who owned a 2011 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while the client was on the highway driving at an undisclosed speed, he was flagged down to be told their vehicle was releasing smoke. The client noticed an open flame coming from the undercarriage and was able to veer the vehicle to the shoulder prior to ejecting himself from the vehicle before it was engulfed in flames. The client sustained minor injuries to their knee and finger while exiting the vehicle. No other injuries or passengers were reported. The fire was extinguished by the Fire Department. A fire report was filed. A police report was not filed. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was destroyed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 192,910.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-03
- VIN: KNAGR4A62B5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Optima. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the hybrid battery system warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a short circuit fuse and a failed hybrid battery. The contact was informed that the battery and the fuse needed to be replaced. The dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The manufacturer agreed to assist with fifty percent of the repair cost for the replacement of the hybrid battery. The failure mileage was approximately 132,165. Parts distribution disconnect.
POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-20
- VIN: KNAGN4A71B5
- Components: POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: I could not brake and almost caused a car accident. Brakes gave out, no gas, it smelled like it was going to catch on fire.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-18
- VIN: KNAGM4A79B5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: We had someone hit our vehicle and our ins co totalled the vehicle instead of repairing it due to the check engine light being on because of this recall
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-17
- VIN: KNAGM4A77B5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Recall for HECU fuse. Dealer made appointment to fix the cancelled saying fix was no longer available by Kia. Kia should not have said there is a remedy available when there is not.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-14
- VIN: KNAGN4A78B5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Optima. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-26
- VIN: KNAGR4A66B5
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Optima. The contact stated that the headlights were significantly dim, which reduced the driver's visibility of the roadway while driving at night. The vehicle was taken to the local Pep Boys where the headlight bulbs were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The dealer was notified of the failure and charged a repair fee for the headlights replacement. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-16
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH and coming to a stop, there was an abnormally loud sound coming from the steering wheel. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated he was able to continue to drive the vehicle back to the residence. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The dealer was not contacted for a diagnostic test or repair. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but was unable to confirm when parts would be available. The failure mileage was approximately 128,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available. The VIN was not provided.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-12
- VIN: KNAGM4A73B5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Optima. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brake, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed a burning odor on the exterior of the vehicle and smoke coming from underneath the hood. The contact drove the vehicle to the shoulder of the road to allow the vehicle to cool down. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the dealer was made aware of the failure and confirmed parts that were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-25
- VIN: KNAGN4A7XB5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Optima. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-30
- VIN: KNAGN4A70B5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she smelled smoke in the interior of the vehicle. The air bag and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the knock sensor. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic), and the VIN was included, but parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 157,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-18
- VIN: KNAGN4A73B5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: On [XXX] while driving my oil light came on. Since I assumed I was low on oil, I proceeded to nearest gas station, approx 10 min.away, and added oil. I let engine remain off for approx.20 min. When I started the car up blue smoke began coming out from front and rear and there was a knocking noise. Since this is an engine that had already been replaced due to a recall, and now symptoms have returned I suspect engine might have failed again. I have always done my oil changes and have not had any issues. I had car towed towed to San Jose and contacted a mobile oil service to have oil drained out and replaced. When he was finished he said there were particles in oil removed and suspected engine had failed and I should not drive. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-03
- VIN: KNAGM4A79B5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: NHTSA Recall
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-14
- VIN: KNAGN4A74B5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Could be the barons
2011 Kia Optima recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2011 Kia Optima.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Kia has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC172.
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Kia Forte, Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Kia Optima and 2011-2012 Kia Optima Hybrid and Sedona vehicles. In the event of a crash, the air bag control unit (ACU) may short circuit, preventing the frontal air bags and seat belt pretensioners from deploying.
- Consequence: If the frontal air bags and seat belt pretensioners are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a vehicle crash that necessitates deployment of these safety systems.
- Remedy: Kia will notify owners. For model year 2011 Sedona vehicles, Kia will instruct dealers to verify the ACU part number and, if necessary, install an extension wire harness kit between the ACU Connector and the Vehicle Harness Connector. For all other affected vehicles, Kia will instruct dealers to install the extension wire harness kit. The recall began September 28, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC165.
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: Kia Motor Company (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Optima, 2012-2014 Sorento and 2011-2013 Sportage vehicles. Machining errors during the engine manufacturing process may cause premature bearing wear within the engine.
- Consequence: Bearing wear may result in the engine seizing, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine assembly, and replace the engine if necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 20, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC147.
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors Corporation
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and Sportage, model year 2010-2011 Soul, model year 2008-2011 Optima, model year 2010 Forte, model year 2007-2009 Amanti, and model year 2009 Borrego vehicles. Originally, in April 2013, Kia recalled 623,658 model year 2007-2010 Rondo and Sportage, model year 2007-2011 Sorento, model year 2007 Sedona, model year 2010-2011 Soul, and model year 2011 Optima vehicles. In September 2013, Kia informed the agency that it was adding an additional 356,719 vehicles to this campaign. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 980,377. In the affected vehicles, the stop lamp switch may malfunction. A malfunctioning stop lamp switch may cause the brake lights to not illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed or may cause an inability to deactivate the cruise control by depressing the brake pedal. Additionally, a malfunctioning stop lamp switch may also result in intermittent operation of the push-button start feature, affect the operation of the brake-transmission shift interlock feature preventing the shifter from being moved out of the PARK position and cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction light to illuminate.
- Consequence: Failure to illuminate the stop lamps during braking or inability to disengage the cruise control could increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, when the ignition is in the 'ON' position, the transmission shifter may be able to be moved out of PARK without first applying the brake. This may lead to unintentional movement of the car which may increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Kia will send an interim notification to owners in May 2013. When parts are available, owners will receive a second notification and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge. Owners may contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's recall campaign number is SC098.
Negative 2011 Kia Optima car reviews
Positive 2011 Kia Optima car reviews
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I've been test driving both the 2011 Sonata and Optima. The Optima has a sleek design that resembles an Infiniti or Audi, and offers features that the Sonata doesn't, such as hill start assist and dual exhaust on all trims. Personally, I'm leaning towards the Optima, but I'm disappointed that Kia doesn't allow you to get cruise control with the manual transmission. Despite this, the car is excellent, with very good acceleration and a quiet valve train. Additionally, the suspension feels more upscale than the Sonata. It's a shame that there are no options available for a turbo with a manual transmission. If Kia were to change their packaging, they could easily steal sales from BMW, Audi, and other luxury brands.
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When I first saw this vehicle on a Kia dealership lot, I was immediately taken. The Optima SX is, by far, the coolest vehicle in its class. It has great looks, styling, performance and value all rolled up into one fine automobile. Kia, you have my undivided attention. In fact, a week after I first saw the Optima SX, I purchased one.
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I absolutely love this car! While the seating could be a bit more comfortable, I've found that my seat has conformed to me after all these miles. The 6 speed manual is so much fun to drive, and as a big fan of standard transmissions, I couldn't be happier. Passing on back roads is a breeze thanks to the plenty of power provided by the 200hp 4 cyl engine, which also gives a great power to weight ratio. Just pop it down into 3rd gear, step on it, and it goes...fast! I've hit what seems to be a rev limiter on occasion, and a top speed limiter in 6th gear because it ran out of steam at about 118 with what should have been plenty of room showing on the tach. Best of all, it's totally reliable! All I've needed to do is change the tires, oil, and transmission fluid. I also changed the brakes, plugs, serpentine belt, and flushed the radiator in the spring.
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Congratulations on your new 2011 Kia Optima EX! It sounds like you made a great choice with the Snow White Pearl exterior and grey leather interior. After driving it for a few days, it's clear that you got great value for your money with better than average performance. The six-speed automatic shifts smoothly and quickly, and the 200 HP four-cylinder engine provides more than adequate performance for all but the most speed-obsessed driver. The car also boasts an amazing amount of front legroom, which is highly unusual in any car regardless of price. The fit and finish, as well as the quality of the materials, are top-notch. Overall, it sounds like you're really enjoying your new car! If you need any help figuring out the mood lighting in the armrests, don't hesitate to reach out.
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You've owned this car for 7 years and it has been an absolute gem! The basic model was comfortable enough for your needs and you've only ever had to replace basic maintenance items such as brakes, spark plugs, oil, and tires. There were a few recalls, but they were dealt with very quickly. In 7 years, you never had anything besides the basics to worry about. Even when you got side-swiped by a semi on the freeway, the car held up very well and kept you safe. It's clear that this car is both reliable and safe. You would have kept it for as long as possible if it hadn't been totaled.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2011 Kia Optima problems:
2011 Kia Optima Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Oct 25, 2021 ... 2011 is one of the worst years for the Kia Optima. It has serious engine problems which lead to failures around 100,000 miles. Less expensive ...
2011 Kia Optima Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
Problem with your 2011 Kia Optima? Our list of 8 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2011 Kia Optima.
2011 Kia Optima Problems: Engine Stalls and Stiff Steering are ...
Jan 20, 2022 ... Key Points · The 2011 Kia Optima's biggest problem is engine sputtering, stalling, and shutdown, which most likely stems from a high-pressure ...
Common Problems with 2011 Kia Optima Turbo - Q&A
Jul 12, 2012 ... There is a bulletin (SA078) for the turbo wastegate adjustment for this vehicle. This is a free service and will address your concern. This has ...
Turbo Issues 100k+ Miles. Recall completed. | Kia Optima Forums
Oct 6, 2015 ... I have a 2011 Kia Optima SX (2.0L Turbo). I bought it in November of 2011 with 400 miles on it, and have thoroughly enjoyed my ownership of the ...
Other years of Kia Optima
Are you having problems with your 2011 Kia Optima?
Ryley Feest 2024-10-02
Hello everyone, I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share a recent experience with you all. Our daughter recently turned 17 and we decided to buy her a car, a beautiful 2011 Kia Optima EX. Unfortunately, just two weeks after bringing it home, the engine blew a rod and there was a 3
Winston Spinka 2024-08-03
The initial quality of the car is fantastic, just as every review and award says. When we did have to have something fixed, the parts were cheap. Although the quality of the car and the road noise were a little on the cheap side, it wasn't all that bad. However, long-term dependability leaves quite a bit to be desired. Traded at 100k miles. My 2-year-old son managed to break the back passenger door mechanism somehow. The handle was in one piece, but the door opening mechanism was compromised and stuck on perma child lock. The air conditioner worked most of the time, and if it didn't work, that all-glass sunroof was murder. The sunroof worked most of the time. Most of the 'hey, check this noise out' was answered with 'they all make that noise'. That noise, in this case, was the sound of it burning through oil between oil changes. Had the recall check done, and I'm shocked that they didn't catch how much oil that pig was burning through. In general, with my Sorento, the same thing happened. 'That's not a leak, it's a seep.' Aw shucks, thanks guys! I feel all warm and fuzzy, and that's all I really needed. The Bluetooth connected most of the time. In general, this is my last Kia. Although it's better than some cars I've owned, it's definitely not a Toyota or a Honda. The warranty is good, but you don't want to have the 'oh, it's supposed to make that noise' conversation with the shop in the first place.
Tod Lowe 2024-05-01
I recently purchased a brand new 2011 Kia Optima from Nationwide Kia in Timonium MD. Unfortunately, the car had a marked left pull right off the lot, which made it difficult to keep the car on the road without constant pressure on the wheel. Despite the dealer's assurances that they could fix the issue, it turned out to be a known defect with many Optima's and their kissing cousin Sonata's. The service tech informed me that there was nothing else they could do, and my car still pulls to the left. As you can imagine, this has been a frustrating experience, especially since my car only has 800 miles on it.
Sigmund Hudson 2024-04-27
My engine unexpectedly quit while shifting into 2nd gear, despite no prior warning signs and no apparent issues with the oil or other components. Unfortunately, I still owe $8890 on the car. The mechanic suggested that the engine may have jumped time, resulting in irreparable damage.