2015 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 2015 Kia Optima problems
The 2015 Kia Optima has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to engine failure and steering issues.
Engine Failure:
The 2015 Kia Optima is known to have engine problems, with several owners reporting engine failure. Some of the specific issues include:
- Engine locked up: Another owner mentioned that their Optima purchased new in 2015 and had its engine locked up at 167,600 miles. Despite regular maintenance, they faced a sudden and complete engine failure.
- Sudden engine shutdown: A complaint involved the car shutting off suddenly while driving, with all dashboard lights coming on. Despite regular oil changes, the vehicle started seizing, and eventually, the engine was diagnosed as blown, requiring a costly repair.
- Engine seizure due to bearing damage: A user reported that their Kia Optima LX started making a ticking noise and then suddenly died at 30 mph. The mechanic suggested the engine likely seized due to bearing damage.
Steering Problems:
The 2015 Kia Optima has also been reported to have significant steering problems. Common complaints include the steering wheel sticking at the 12 o'clock position, especially in cooler weather and highway speeds, making it a challenge to keep the car straight. Some owners reported a loss of power steering functionality while driving, leading to unexpected veering and requiring considerable physical effort to control the vehicle.
In summary, the 2015 Kia Optima has been reported to have engine failure and steering problems as common issues. These problems can lead to significant repair costs and inconvenience for owners. It is essential to be aware of these issues when considering purchasing a 2015 Kia Optima.
Does the 2015 Kia Optima have problems?
More than Half of the 2015 Kia Optima Owner Complaints Registered with the NHTSA are for Engine and Gearbox Issues. The 2015 Optima has a notoriously high count of engine and gearbox complaints. Of the 429 complaints registered with the NHTSA, 262 are for engine-related issues.
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 a used 2015 Kia Optima a good car?
Driving the Used 2015 Kia Optima
The base 2.4-liter engine delivers a smooth, quiet and willing performance while sipping gasoline. Despite the car's racy appearance, the Optima's suspension is set up more for comfort than cornering, and not quite up to the standards set by the Ford Fusion and Chrysler 200.
Is there a recall on 2015 Kia Optima engines?
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.
2015 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
- Unknown or other problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2015 Kia Optima vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2015 Kia Optima
The NHTSA has received 837 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2015 Kia Optima. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2015 Kia Optima vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 5XXGM4A72FG
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH, the air bag warning light illuminated. The contact stated that two independent mechanics were sent to the residence to diagnose the vehicle. The contact was informed that the clock spring needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 72,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-02
- VIN: 5XXGR4A60FG
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: vehicle paint is peeling severely
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
- VIN: 5XXGR4A64FG
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: White pearl paint is chipping all around the car. At times big chucks of paint just flake off
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-09
- VIN: 5XXGM4A76FG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving at 55 MPH, the vehicle started smoking independently from the front of the vehicle and the accelerator pedal went to the floorboard. The vehicle was restarted and the vehicle went into limp mode. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 5XXGM4A71FG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owned a 2015 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, he noticed an abnormal burning odor; however, the temperature gauge did not indicate that the vehicle was overheating. The contact stated that upon noticing that the burning odor was becoming stronger, the contact pulled to the side of the road and turned off the vehicle. The contact stated that while exiting the vehicle, he noticed flames coming out through the upper part of the hood, near the windshield. The contact opened the hood and noticed that there was fire under the hood. The contact stated that the fire expanded, and the vehicle significantly burned from the front end to the rear seats. The fire was extinguished by the fire department. The contact was unsure whether a fire department report was filed. The fire department advised the contact that the fire was caused by an electrical or mechanical failure. There was no injury sustained. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed and totaled. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 101,000.
SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-03
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 5XXGR4A6XFG
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: Engine fire
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-19
- VIN: 5XXGN4A71FG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact also heard a loud knocking sound coming from under the hood. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 102,500.
STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-17
- VIN: KNAGM4A7XF5
- Components: STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. Additionally, the steering seized. The contact stated that the steering wheel was difficult to turn, and the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle was restarted; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 174,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
- VIN: KNAGM4A7XF5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was a loud knocking sound coming from the engine. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was restarted; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,LANE DEPARTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-17
- VIN: KNAGN4AD8F5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: On or about 13 May 2024 my family and I traveling. During the travel the vehicle displayed “Hybrid System Stop and Do Not Drive”. We took it in to Kia during the time that they had the vehicle, they informed us that it needed an ECU update (recall). When services were finished, we picked up the vehicle and was made to pay for services that were part of the recall. When we left the dealership, the lights on the dashboard appeared 1. Engine, 2. HEV. We called the dealership back and informed them what happened. They told us to take the vehicle back to them. After checking it, they informed us that due to the update that was done to the vehicle it triggered faults in the battery. They informed us we would have to replace the Hybrid Battery that would cost us about $13,000. We stated to them our vehicle wasn’t having battery issues when we initially turned the vehicle in for service. They refused to assist and stated it wasn’t there responsibility even though it was given to us with these faults. We left the dealership and after driving for a few minutes, the warning sign came on and the car began to smell like smoke. I contacted KIA Corporate and informed them that the vehicle displayed a message on the dashboard and smoke. The gentleman I spoke to informed me not to drive the vehicle and park it away from other vehicles and to get the vehicle to KIA to check services. We took it to a different KIA for services. They informed us that the hybrid battery needed to be replaced and the cost. I explained to them the recall issue and that the vehicle was given to us with the issues that started to occur after the update. They said it wasn’t their responsibility and that they weren’t going to fix the damages or issues that were caused by another dealership. I called KIA Corporate and informed them of the situation and how the dealership refused to make repairs although they knew the hybrid battery issues were triggered from the recall updates/repairs.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-05
- VIN: KNAGM4A71F5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Engine may be blown not sure what all is affected. Engine died while driving. Trying to start makes a loud knocking in engine compartment.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-23
- VIN: 5XXGR4A66FG
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Possible clock spring failure. Symptoms - Air bag light remains on and lost functionality on left side of steering wheel. Not covered under recall, but 2016 year is covered. My vehicle appears to have a mix of 2015 & 2016 parts (specifically front brakes). No aftermarket changes to brakes or steering clock spring.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-31
- VIN: 5XXGM4A78FG
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving uphill at 20 MPH, the vehicle hesitated and the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 120,000.
WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-11
- VIN: 5XXGN4A76FG
- Components: WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: On May 11, 2024, we took our 2015 Kia Optima to Hutchinson Kia Service Center 3931 River Pl, Macon, Ga. due to brakes not working. When you apply brakes the vehicle would not stopped you would have to apply the emergency brakes for a complete stop. On that day, I was told no one was there to check my brakes due it was a Saturday and would need to schedule another appointment when they could do a brake diagnostic. The next appointment was June 4,2024, on that day we had the vehicle towed due to brakes. Today is September 2, 2024 and our vehicle is still there. On July 12, 2024, we were contacted staying vehicle was repaired and the problem wa a pin hole in the right brake line. We picked up the vehicle proceeded home at the first traffic stop same problem happen with the brakes.We returned immediately back to Kia Service center, explaining the same problem still exists. After vehicle being there for 2 more weeks, Nick with Kia Hutchinson Kia called stated there was a problem with ABS system and vehicle would be ready on August 21,2024. Well the still have my vehicle and no updates. When you call they put on hold and never comeback. If you go over the Service Manager is always out and no one can give you and update
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-19
- VIN: KNAGM4A79F5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: For the past month or two my vehicle hesitates to start on the first try. I can smell an odor at times when this occurs. Most recently it seems to occur more frequently when the outside temperature is warmer.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-26
- VIN: 5XXGN4A78FG
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The paint is coming off in chunks anywhere from an inch to 5 inches at a time. Not from rock chips.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-21
- VIN: 5XXGR4A67FG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Hi I have a 2015 Kia optima white(pearl). Like many other white Kia’s on the road, my paint is continuously simply flaking off. This problem is being ignored by Kia which is very frustrating. How is it that Kia is able to avoid this problem when several Kia’s are having the same problem but because our cars are “ out of warranty” for the useless first 3 years paint warranty they claim to have it’s ok. It’s outrageous a 2015 shouldn’t be having paint problems that insane to even think about.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-13
- VIN: 5XXGM4A71FG
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. Additionally, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle turned off unintendedly. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure; however, the contact was informed that the repair was not covered under the Technical Service Bulletin NHTSA ID: 10252085 (Electrical System, Engine and Engine Cooling); with a similar failure description. The failure mileage was approximately 92,394.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-02
- VIN: KNAGM4A70F5
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the vehicle shut off without warning. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to a dealer where a diagnostic test was performed. The vehicle was diagnosed with engine failure and the vehicle was repaired by the dealer under Warranty. The contact stated that several months after the repair was performed, the contact noticed a fuel odor coming from the vehicle after a visit to the gas station. The next day upon inspection of the vehicle, the contact's husband discovered a puddle of fuel underneath the vehicle. The dealer was notified of the failure and requested that the vehicle be towed to the dealer for an inspection. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V907000 (Fuel System, Gasoline; Engine) which the contact linked to the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 178,000.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-01
- VIN: 5XXGM4A7XFG
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, or while at a complete stop, the vehicle would shut off without warning. The vehicle would resume normal operation upon restart of the engine. The vehicle was taken to a dealer for an inspection; however, the dealer was unable to duplicate the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 88,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-20
- VIN: KNAGM4A75F5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I have a 2015 Kia Optima never had any problems. Last Sunday it starting rattling from the engine, changed the oil the following Saturday and drove it to see if it made it any better. Within 20 mins the noise in the engine from knocking was so bad, my car was trying to die on me at red lights. Luckily, I was able to make it home. Checked the oil that was just changed and drove maybe 25 mins is full of metal shavings. Called Kia and they are trying to say that because a recall wasn't completed before I owned it that I am not eligible for a engine replacement, even though when i bought this used car from a Kia dealer they should have seen and completed this recall. Now I have a car with a bad engine that I still owe 5K that I can't even drive to trade it in.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-23
- VIN: 5XXGN4A74FG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: While driving on freeway lights, flicker and car just dies. Steering goes out and lose control of vehicle. Then will randomly start up again
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-22
- VIN: 5XXGN4A79FG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I was driving on the expressway onto the exit ramp going about 75 mph when my car suddenly slowed down even though my foot was on the pedal as i kept trying to drive, it was slowing down. The temp gauge was exactly in the middle and the rpm was at 0. The mph was at 60 mph even though it was slowing down it didnt change on the reader. When i realized the mph on the reader was not changing all the service lights came out on the dash. So I idled to a stop on the side of the road when I got out of the car I realized there was smoke coming from the hood and it had a really awful smell of something burning. I know the engine didnt over heat because the coolant reservoir is full and the upper radiator hose had pressure. Ive been having an issue with burning oil so I topped it off with a qt of oil. I left the car off for about 2 hours and then tried to start it and the engine would not start , the break pedal became hard to push down but the burning smell got worse. So i decided to turn the car off again. Meanwhile im still stuck on the side of the road. I watched a couple of youtube videos and there are many people having the same issue with the radiator fan, or a leak in a pipe or hose, or some sort of sensor.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-18
- VIN: 5XXGN4A76FG
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: Engine locked in while driving on road No power an won’t start
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-01
- VIN: KNAGM4A78F5
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence and then to a local dealer where it was diagnosed with a wheel bearing failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure; however, no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
2015 Kia Optima recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2015 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
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles previously recalled under recall 20V-519. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.
- Consequence: An electrical short in the HECU increases the risk of a fire while parked or driving.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from other vehicles and structures until the recall repair is completed. Dealers will install a new multi-fuse, and inspect the HECU for leaks, replacing the HECU if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 2, 2021. This recall supersedes previous NHTSA recall number 20V-519. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC212.
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.
- Consequence: If the HECU short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.
- Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the HECU for leaking brake fluid and replace the HECU if necessary, free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside and away from other vehicles and structures until the recall repair is completed. The recall began October 20, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC197.
- 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.
Negative 2015 Kia Optima car reviews
Positive 2015 Kia Optima car reviews
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I recently purchased my 2nd Kia Optima EX Base model, a 2015. I absolutely adore the Premium package, which is definitely worth the additional $3000 to $5000. However, I am currently content with my EX Base model. I have owned my car for a week now, but I previously owned the exact same model in a 2012, which I loved. The newer model is even better, as it is quieter and has voice-activated radio. The controls on the steering wheel are also different. UPDATE: I now own a 2017 model, but I miss the 2015 for its powerful dual exhaust and larger illuminated cup holders. If only I could have the engine from my 2015 in my 2017 car, I would be completely satisfied!
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with this car so far. It's been a great value for the money and I'm really happy with my purchase. I plan on keeping it for my usual 7-8 year timeframe, so I'll definitely keep you updated on how it holds up!
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I'm so glad to hear that you love your car! It's always great to have a vehicle that you enjoy driving.
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If you follow the manufacturer's suggested regular maintenance, you won't encounter any issues. I purchased my Optima brand new in September of 2015 and I still love it just as much today. It's incredibly comfortable, drives smoothly, and has adequate speed and power. The car's appearance is also quite attractive and easy to maintain. Although I've had three recalls, they all turned out to be unnecessary. If you're looking for a sporty sedan with plenty of room and all the features you need in a commuter car, you won't find a better deal out there.
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I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with my new 2015 Optima EX with premium package. I purchased it in January, right in the middle of all the snow in Boston, to replace my 2009 Hyundai Sonata that was unfortunately totaled in an accident. Although I had to rush the buying process and only looked at a few other cars, I was able to get the car for under $23K delivered before taxes and fees, which was more than $5K off sticker price. Overall, I'm pretty happy with the car. It has good power, handles well, and the driver's seat is comfortable. However, I did notice that the city mileage is worse than advertised, and the head clearance could be better. Additionally, it's more difficult to access the rear seat than other cars, and there's no spare tire. Lastly, I found that the trunk release button is hard to find with gloves, and the front passenger seat is way too low, making it feel like you're sitting in a hole. Unfortunately, I didn't catch this during the test drive. I hope this information is helpful to you!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2015 Kia Optima problems:
2015 Kia Optima Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
Problem with your 2015 Kia Optima? Our list of 5 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2015 Kia Optima.
2015 Kia Optima Problems Include Leaking Brake Fluid, Airbag ...
Dec 29, 2021 ... Engine issues make up over half of the 2015 Kia Optima's registered complaints. Recalls and investigations include problems with leaking ...
2015 Kia Optima Engine Replacement : r/kia
Dec 28, 2022 ... I bought the car used in 2020 I wasn't aware of the engine issues at the time, had I known I never would have bought it. But to my knowledge ...
2015 Kia Optima Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2015 Kia Optima? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
2015 Optima Burning Oil | Kia Optima Forums
Jun 8, 2022 ... Burning oil at a rate of about 1qt every 1200 miles. According to a guy in my office who also has an Optima, Kia is aware of this problem on ...
Other years of Kia Optima
Are you having problems with your 2015 Kia Optima?
Roberto Shields 2024-10-17
I recently purchased the 2015 Optima EX, fully loaded, which had all the features of my previous Lexus IS 250 but at a more affordable price. However, I have noticed that some of the features do not work as well as they should. One of my biggest concerns is that the passenger seat is too low and does not have an up/down feature. As someone who is 5'6
Maximilian Cartwright 2024-10-06
I have experienced several issues with my 2015 Kia Optima LX, including a persistent pulling to the right, difficulty staying on the road, a loud and shaky engine, a sour smell from the air conditioning, and a jerky and booting transmission. Despite taking it to the service department multiple times, they have failed to adequately address these issues, only driving the car and claiming that the problems are normal. The tires are also excessively loud and have chips missing. As a new car owner, I am disappointed with the lack of attention and care from the service department and the manufacturer. These issues are safety hazards and should be taken seriously. I urge Kia to acknowledge and address these problems for the safety and satisfaction of their customers.I am extremely dissatisfied with my Kia vehicle. Despite being assured of its quality, I have experienced numerous issues with the engine and the service department has been unhelpful in resolving them. The noise from the engine suggests that the lifters may be going bad, but the service department denies hearing anything. This lack of accountability and customer service has eroded my trust in Kia and I will not be purchasing from them again. Additionally, I cannot recommend Victory Kia of Victoria TX as they prioritize sales over customer satisfaction. I urge Kia to take action and improve their service centers to better serve their customers.
Daren Abshire 2024-10-03
Hey there! I just wanted to share my experience with my 2015 Kia Optima LX. While I was initially happy with my purchase, I did run into some issues down the line. I had some trouble with my gas cap and engine light, which I was able to fix with a new gas cap. However, a few weeks later, my car suddenly stopped working while I was driving. It was a scary experience, but luckily I was able to get help from a nearby collision place. While I did have some trouble with my Kia, I hope this information helps you make an informed decision when looking for a car. Take care!They checked my oil next and informed me that it was low but not empty. They explained that KIA has issues with burning oil and they believe my engine was seized since I had all my lights and radio on, so it couldn’t be the battery. They felt awful for the bad timing and how it happened and told me they would check out my car the next day to see what the issue is. The next day, I found out that my engine is seized! I called KIA and they informed me that there was a recall on my engine for the “Knock System” where they update the computer which does something for the engine. They also mentioned that my warranty would’ve been extended on my engine if I had the recall done, but since I didn’t, it was 8,000 miles over my warranty. Although I only received one letter a few months ago when I was in an academy, I was so busy that I put the letter to the side for me to do later. Corporate KIA told me that I “need to learn how to manage my time better” even though the recall deadline was about 4 months later. They suggested that I could bring my KIA into a local service technician for KIA, but it will be roughly $300 to even look at it, and if they find something at their fault then I might be reimbursed. So Corporate KIA recorded everything and everyone I spoke to regarding this matter. Although I tried to explain my situation, they just hit me with “too bad” pretty much and to suck it up because it’s my issue that my engine seized. As a first responder, I cannot be without a vehicle, so I needed to find something fast. I tried to trade in my car and was only offered $500 for it at multiple car dealerships.The mechanics advised me to replace the engine, which would cost around $5000 in labor. Due to the part shortage, it could take a few months to fix. Unfortunately, I still owe $7300 on my KIA, which I have only had for 4 years and have paid almost $11k towards. I was forced to get a new car and couldn't even trade in my old one since I decided to fix the engine and sell it to pay off my loan. It's important to note that since the vehicle is still on a loan, it needs to have full coverage where I live, even though it's immobilized. This means I'm paying a car payment and full coverage on a dead car until I can sell it. I also recently put 4 brand new tires on it, which unfortunately didn't add any more value to my car and cost $800. I hope my experience can help others avoid the same headache. It's disappointing that KIA sold defective engines and doesn't seem to care about their customers. However, I'm grateful for the opportunity to move on to a better car brand.
Rowland Treutel 2024-09-28
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to let you know that unfortunately, KIA/Hyundai won't be able to cover the engine, even though it's the same recalled engine that was in the 2014 model. Apparently, the 2015 Optima was made on a different production line. I hope this information helps!
Selmer Waelchi 2024-09-16
I recently purchased this vehicle, but unfortunately, it has not met my expectations. The gas mileage is poor, and the steering wheel is uncomfortable to use. Additionally, the cruise control does not work properly, and the car tends to swerve on the freeway. The passenger seat is also quite low. I was disappointed with the trade-in value offered by the dealer when I returned the car, which was much lower than what I paid. Overall, my experience with this Kia has not been positive.