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Kia Optima repairs by problem area

Engine (24%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (7%)

Brakes and Traction Control (5%)

Suspension and Steering (12%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (32%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (13%)

Other (7%)

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Chart based on 577 repairs.

See TSBs and recalls for the Kia Optima.

Kia Optima repair cost distribution

$2500+ (2%)

$1000 - $2499 (4%)

$500 - $999 (7%)

$100 - $499 (25%)

< $100 (62%)

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Chart based on 318 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

See repairs for all Kia Optima model years.

Kia Optima in Colorado, United States Aug 2021 - Feb 2022
Jan 2022 15000 mi	Broken USB port. Port replaced under warranty.

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Kia Optima in California, United States Oct 2019 - Jan 2022
Dec 2019 6000 mi	Seatbelt doesn't retract

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Kia Optima in Western Australia, Australia Jun 2017 - Jun 2018
Aug 2017 13020 mi	Software upgraded to address an issue with not reporting Radio station details properly
Apr 2018 21080 mi	Intermittent vibrating from the sunroof started in about December and could not be diagnosed. The car was then recalled and the entire sunroof seal replaced.

Kia Optima in Florida, United States Jun 2017 - Jul 2018
Jul 2018 7000 mi US $32	Don't recall

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Kia Optima in Texas, United States Oct 2020 - Jun 2022
May 2021 87000 mi	Parasitic draw issue. Battery dies in three days. Issue was the master window switch.
Apr 2022 86000 mi US $225	Replaced front subframe air dam

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Kia Optima in Washington, United States Nov 2017 - Aug 2020
Feb 2018 3000 mi	Recall on the Automatic Transmission Inhibitor Switch.
Jun 2018 4500 mi	On-board PHEV charging module failure. Car stopped charging when plugged in. Dealer replaced the charging module (in the car, not the one going to the wall)

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Kia Optima in Michigan, United States - Jun 2017
Apr 2017 9000 mi	Vibration wind noise related to panoramic roof trim pieces. Replaced under warranty, known TSB.
Jun 2017 12600 mi	Passenger curtain airbag replaced.

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Kia Optima in California, United States Dec 2017 - Jan 2022
Jan 2018 32850 mi US $70	Buzzing front speakers. Dealer could not reproduce. I replaced myself with aftermarket speakers.

Kia Optima in Pennsylvania, United States Aug 2017 - Mar 2019
May 2018 7000 mi	The repair done by the dealer at the previous visit was done with a defective part that resulted in the check engine coming on several days after the work was done. In addition to the light being on, there was a noticeable loss of acceleration. The dealer determined that the ECVVT cover that was replaced at the previous visit was defective. Upon this part being replaced with a new part. the car's performance and all systems returned to normal. In response to the check engine light (ie, MIL), technician reported finding a "... code P001000 - intake camshaft position actuator circuit bank 1". Upon checking under the hood, tech found "rubber plug for ECVVT cover off". This plug had been replaced on 3/19/18 under recall SA0305A. The plug was replaced and codes were cleared. Check engine light was confirmed as being off after a road test and code re-scan.
Jun 2018 8000 mi	The two front tires were replaced under an optional body/tire/wheel protection plan purchased through the dealer at the time the car was purchased. The total repair cost was over $500, which was fully covered under the protection plan.

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Kia Optima in Georgia, United States Sep 2017 - Jun 2022
Feb 2021 62000 mi	Engine using oil. This is under the lifetime warranty because of the recall and Powertrain warranty up until 100,000 miles. Have had to take it in every 1000 miles since February. In May, a combustion engine cleaning was done which messed up the PCM which had to be replaced. All of this so far was paid for by KIA. In November 2021, I was required to have the valve cover removed to check for sludge, etc. Nothing bad was found. I had to pay for this service. I am back to the 1000 mile oil consumption test.
Mar 2022 73000 mi	New Engine due to oil consumption - over 3 quarts of oil in 1000 miles

Kia Optima in Georgia, United States Dec 2020 - Jul 2022
Nov 2021 107000 mi US $40	Replaced both headlamps -- one of them had gone out so replaced both at same time.
Dec 2021 109000 mi US $400	Replace valve cover gasket (leak).

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Kia Optima in Illinois, United States May 2017 - Apr 2018
Jul 2017 43000 mi	Rear LED taillight had an element fail. Entire taillight assembly had to be replaced. Was covered under warranty.

Kia Optima in Manitoba, Canada Jun 2015 - Jul 2018
Nov 2016 17920 mi	Tail light got water inside the housing
Jul 2018 38750 mi	Driver side axle needed to be replaced. Bearing failing

Kia Optima in Minnesota, United States Jun 2015 - Mar 2018
Nov 2017 28000 mi US $284	Tranny flush n fill for 30k mile maintenance. Install two new tires and 4 wheel alignment.

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Kia Optima in Washington, United States Mar 2016 - Jun 2018
Dec 2017 50000 mi	Voice control no longer works when phone is paired via Bluetooth after system update.

Kia Optima in Florida, United States Jun 2015 - Nov 2017
May 2016 7000 mi	Keyless entry computer chip needed to be replaced
Nov 2017 15000 mi	Keyless entry not working

Kia Optima in New Brunswick, Canada Jun 2015 - Jun 2018
Jul 2015 7940 mi	Trim on drivers door was loose
May 2018 43400 mi	short in light under door on passengers side. created smoke and shorted out the interior lights. repaired under warranty

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Kia Optima in Florida, United States Aug 2016 - Feb 2022
Feb 2022 59000 mi	Everything was fine on this well maintained car, out of no where the 2.4 Engine (Hybrid model started with a loud rod knock. Dealer dx Rod Bearing issues and has ordered a new engine

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Kia Optima in West Virginia, United States Sep 2015 - Sep 2016
Sep 2016 28000 mi	Drivers seat trim came off

Kia Optima in Pennsylvania, United States Jul 2014 - Mar 2018
Dec 2015 13000 mi	Moisture inrear taillights and LED failure.

Kia Optima in Georgia, United States Dec 2013 - Apr 2017
Feb 2014 2700 mi	New motor had to be installed. Issue with turbo engines w/mfg date sept 13 - dec 13.
Sep 2015 29000 mi	Replaced battery at only 18 months
Nov 2015 32000 mi	Water leaking into tail light on driver's side. Light was removed and double "plugs" installed. Unknown if issue resolved, must wait for all water to evaporate. Update: resolved.

Kia Optima in New York, United States Mar 2016 - Aug 2018
Jul 2016 2300 mi	The ventilated driver's seat did not work. The dealer had to order the part and it took 7 days for the part to arrive. The repair was under warranty and done completely
Dec 2016 6000 mi	Steering shaft. The steering shaft had a "catch" in it. Like a flat spot which caused the steering wheel to get stuck in one position and required a stronger than normal pressure to steer.
Aug 2018 21000 mi	Driver’s seat heater not working

Kia Optima in Virginia, United States Oct 2016 - Nov 2016
Nov 2016 67000 mi US $250	Bearings froze, required complete engine replacement under warranty.

Kia Optima in Maryland, United States Apr 2014 - Apr 2016
Jul 2015 30000 mi US $45	Pcv replaced after mechanic said it didn't look good.

Kia Optima in New York, United States Nov 2014 - Feb 2020
Dec 2017 51000 mi	Both outer rear taillights (lenses) needed replacement due to moisture entering and causing integrated LED failure. Oil leaking slightly at engine oil Pan seal. Pan removed, cleaned and new sealant applied.
Jul 2019 59500 mi	Short Block Engine replacement due knock diagnostics failure

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Kia Optima in Georgia, United States Nov 2013 - Dec 2014
Aug 2014 9100 mi	Passenger window came of track

Kia Optima in Pennsylvania, United States May 2014 - Sep 2015
Sep 2014 1000 mi	solenoid in transmission went bad car didn't shift right.

Kia Optima in British Columbia, Canada Feb 2017 - Dec 2017
Jul 2017 49600 mi	Electric seats stopped working - needed new part that took one week to arrive

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Kia Optima in Minnesota, United States Jul 2014 - May 2016
Jun 2015 7000 mi	Vehicle gets very poor mileage for a hybrid. Combined avg is just above 22 mpg.

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Kia Optima in Colorado, United States Dec 2013 - Dec 2013
Dec 2013 11000 mi	Electric cooling fan shorted out .

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Kia Optima in Minnesota, United States Mar 2013 - Jul 2014
Nov 2013 8000 mi	Kia has a fuse that is pulled as new car is shipped to totally take any load off of battery. This fuse became loose and vehicle would not start. Reseated fuse and all works perfectly.
Apr 2014 13500 mi	Continuing problems with vehicle periodically going dead (lights, dash etc)when trying to start. Dealer replaced driver door jamb plate as it was grounding. Problems continue same plus remote start periodically fails. Not resolved.
Jun 2014 16000 mi	Problems continue from April. Same exact indications. Has spent numerous days at dealer. Unresolved.
Jul 2014 16000 mi	Previously reported electrical problem went unresolved. Traded back to dealer for another Optima.

Kia Optima in Georgia, United States Mar 2013 - Mar 2017
May 2014 21500 mi	Drivers side mirror would not move L&R. The problem was observed on delivery when new but was intermittent. It was determined that the L&R motor in the mirror was defective from the start and will be replaced under warranty.
Jan 2015 18200 mi	The navigation stopped working, it did reset and begin to function normally again, but the dealer replaced it without question. One interior light had a short in the switch. Switch replaced under warranty.
Jul 2016 72800 mi	Drivers mirror motor will be hopefully repaired by replacing the wiring harness. Attempts have been previously made to make this repair. It has been intermittent in the past, but had failed to activate in all directions now.

Kia Optima in Massachusetts, United States Feb 2013 - Aug 2018
Apr 2013 2000 mi	Window would not close Nav system freeze and abends

Kia Optima in Oregon, United States Aug 2012 - Jun 2018
Sep 2014 13000 mi	Plastic Valve cover had a small crack and was leaking oil over the engine.

Kia Optima in Manitoba, Canada Jan 2014 - Jun 2022
Oct 2016 25100 mi	Replaced inner tie rod
Feb 2019 39709 mi	Replaced throttle body
Sep 2020 48 mi C $125	Right outer tie rod replaced. Dlr noticed problem during oil change. repaired elsewhere $100.00 cheaper.

Kia Optima in Florida, United States Aug 2013 - Sep 2016
Oct 2014 35000 mi	Door Rubber Strip Wear

Kia Optima in Texas, United States May 2013 - Mar 2016
May 2014 17300 mi	Backup camera inop
Feb 2015 33000 mi	Antenna replaced due to no signal on Sat, traffic, or radio. Ecu update.

Kia Optima in California, United States Jan 2013 - Mar 2016
Sep 2013 7000 mi	One headlight beam misaligned; corrected under warranty at first oil change.
Mar 2014 16000 mi	Headlights misaligned again; positioned too high on previous visit.
Sep 2014 19000 mi	Headlights improperly aligned at last visit; 90% fixed, still not perfect
Dec 2015 26000 mi	Car wouldn't start in morning; AAA replaced battery and car is back to normal.

Kia Optima in Saskatchewan, Canada Oct 2012 - Dec 2014
Jul 2013 10540 mi	Driver's airbag replaced due to dash light illuminating

Kia Optima in North Carolina, United States Aug 2012 - Apr 2014
Sep 2012 6000 mi	Short in electrical harness resulting in car shutting off while driving and unable to restart. Corporate flew in to diagnose and a new harness was installed.

Kia Optima in New York, United States Feb 2015 - Jul 2022
Mar 2015 26000 mi	Cylinder 2 spark plug tip burnt off causing a miss fire.

Kia Optima in Colorado, United States Apr 2017 - Apr 2018
Oct 2017 70000 mi	The problem ended up being a fuse housing.

Kia Optima in Texas, United States Jun 2013 - Jul 2013
Jul 2013 11000 mi	I was occasionally experiencing rough/clunky shifts a few days before, and just prior to the check engine light coming on. Dropped it off at the dealer and was informed that they had to replace the trans oil temp sensor.

Kia Optima in Colorado, United States Jul 2012 - Mar 2014
Nov 2013 16000 mi	Noticed transmission fluid leaking. Took the car in, and they ended up having to replace the entire transmission due to a misaligned bushing.

Kia Optima in Virginia, United States Jul 2017 - Jul 2018
Oct 2017 45000 mi US $1100	Excessive vibration diagnosed as uneven rotor wear, rotors were unable to be machined flat

Kia Optima in Colorado, United States Jun 2012 - Apr 2014
Dec 2013 25000 mi	AC blower motor replaced. Bearing making lots of noise when cold. Front passenger grab handle in roof wasn't attached to its mount. Handle with headliner would come down when pulling on the handle.

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Kia Optima in Illinois, United States Jul 2012 - Aug 2015
Sep 2014 16000 mi	Sunroof functions not working properly. Would open and close but not with "one touch" function.

Kia Optima in Ontario, Canada Jul 2012 - Dec 2017
Jul 2014 41200 mi C $800	Stuck springs
Feb 2015 52700 mi C $990	Rear brakes seized, all 4 repolished Fog light out, bulb ordered. Rear plate lights replaced Re-calibrated power stearing
Aug 2015 61760 mi C $800	Excessive brake pedal travel Computer needed updating
Feb 2017 88040 mi C $500	Unit of measure on Climate control system changed from metric to imperial and I could not reset myself so I asked the dealer to do it...they could not fix, nor supply a suggestion to do so...
Mar 2017 89900 mi C $465	Wipers started being extremely slow while travelling in USA. Got it inspected and the motor was still fine, but the linkage was not; it needed replacing. Dealer did not have one in stock, but lubricated the mechanism, and when I came back, the replacement was done quickly in 45 minutes.

Kia Optima in Massachusetts, United States Mar 2013 - Mar 2017
Apr 2013 1000 mi	Had serious rattle issues when playing radio over half volume, issue NOT fixed. They cannot find the issue. Have an issue with the driver seat shifting when taking tight turns, once again could not find issue. The exterior trim piece over front right wheel was broken, probably in transit, and hanging on the wheel. The part was replaced, however the mechanic broke a large piece off of the front bumper. The bumper was replaced for free.

Kia Optima in North Carolina, United States Aug 2012 - May 2020
Aug 2016 84900 mi	Car would not recognize my key, you have to put the car in neutral and it would start. It was really warm and Humid in my area. Sometimes it would do it, sometimes it wouldn't do it. They couldn't find the problem.
Jul 2017 99000 mi US $500	Starter was slipping and wouldn't start all the time Recall notice , the queen had to look at oil to see if engine was defective

Kia Optima in North Carolina, United States Jul 2012 - May 2014
Feb 2014 23300 mi	Right Fog Light bezel (surround- black)peeling. Replaced by the dealer

Kia Optima in Arkansas, United States Mar 2013 - Aug 2013
Apr 2013 11500 mi US $37	Plastic rivets in top of door panel rattling. Wind noise from top of drivers side door, and oil change. Both problems were not fixed because dealer couldn't duplicate. Very disappointed in Kia.
Jun 2013 15000 mi	Still dealing with rivets rattling and wind noise from driver door. Kia has offered a settlement to stop complaints very disappointed with Kia at this point.

Kia Optima in New York, United States Sep 2012 - Jul 2013
Jul 2013 2000 mi	Cruise control,reset, trip buttons failed.

Kia Optima in California, United States Jun 2012 - Jun 2015
May 2013 7000 mi	replace a part that was defective in the A/C compressor

Kia Optima in Tennessee, United States May 2013 - Jun 2017
Jun 2013 1000 mi	Transmission went into limp mode. No codes set. Problem resolved by rebooting (restarting) car. Has not recurred after 1,300 driven. Happened at 216 miles.
Sep 2013 4000 mi	Replaced windshield due to stress crack.

Kia Optima in Colorado, United States Apr 2016 - Jun 2016
May 2016 77000 mi US $200	Engine is destroyed despite regular and proper maintenance beyond manufacturer's suggestions. Engine requires replacement but Kia has denied warranty.
Jun 2016 77000 mi	Extreme oil consumption

Kia Optima in New York, United States Sep 2014 - Jun 2017
Jun 2015 26000 mi	replaced compressor

Kia Optima in California, United States Sep 2014 - Dec 2016
Sep 2016 53000 mi	Leaking timing chain gasket

Kia Optima in Indiana, United States Aug 2012 - Jun 2018
Sep 2017 67000 mi US $275	Replace intake manifold tuning valve control circuit

Kia Optima in North Carolina, United States Apr 2013 - Jun 2018
Nov 2017 68000 mi	Excessive oil consumption. Dealer acknowledges but refused to do any investigation. Recommended oil change despite 2k since last change.

Kia Optima in New York, United States May 2013 - Jun 2022
Nov 2021 123000 mi US $500	Driver side mirror fell apart. Had to replace entire mirror, not covered by warranty

Kia Optima in Alabama, United States Jun 2017 - May 2019
May 2019 78029 mi	Steering wheel had been shaking violently at highway speeds for about a week. Took it in for wheel balance at independent shop. On their recommendation we took it to the dealer for a steering column bushing. This was a know failure point and the dealer replaced it under extended warranty. Totally fixed the vibrations.

Kia Optima in North Carolina, United States Aug 2013 - Jun 2022
Apr 2018 71000 mi US $1500	I need a new compressor.
May 2018 75000 mi US $1800	New compressor & other parts were needed.
May 2021 117000 mi	I have to add oil about once a month, they searched for a leak, but couldn't find one.

Kia Optima in Texas, United States Jan 2014 - Jul 2018
Sep 2014 30000 mi	trip switch in steering wheel mount broke...They replaced trip switch assy
May 2015 42800 mi	carpet tore on driver side ..right at radius of tunnel and factory floor mat
Oct 2016 62700 mi	Ac quit. dealer said condenser bad. Serviced AC sys myself, could not find any leaks, still working fine.
Jan 2017 67200 mi	Satellite radio shows "acquiring signal" all the time
Apr 2017 73000 mi	Clicking in steering..a known issue with these cars..steering coupler replaced

Kia Optima in Ontario, Canada Apr 2015 - Apr 2017
Mar 2017 42780 mi C $320	replaced rear brake pads, rotors

Kia Optima in Massachusetts, United States Aug 2013 - Oct 2020
Sep 2013 2000 mi	Car wanders a little on highway. Checked alignment, dealer said fine. Found steering software on wrong setting. Changed it but I still think too much play, too little straight line stability at speed.

Kia Optima in Connecticut, United States Jan 2013 - Mar 2014
Sep 2013 12000 mi	Clogged A/C discharge hose

Kia Optima in Maryland, United States Mar 2013 - Jun 2018
Jun 2016 37000 mi US $265	no cool air blowing. needed freon
Sep 2017 48000 mi US $394	replace rotors & pads

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Kia Optima in Ontario, Canada May 2013 - Jun 2022
Feb 2015 16120 mi	Backup camera died. Covered by warranty
Jun 2016 26660 mi	replaced right rear tie-rod end link under warranty.
Sep 2016 29140 mi	Kia door light on sill burnt out. Replacement part has to be ordered and replaced
Jun 2017 34720 mi	Slight knocking noise in drivers front side when turning or braking. They said it was strut bearing at first and replaced it. Came back with the problem again when a different tech said that the calipers needed to be cleaned and lube. The last guy was right. Took the car in and with 20 minutes had completed his work. Problem completely resolved under warranty.
May 2018 42160 mi C $100	Here an occasion ticking/clacking sound in the front end somewhere. Can't easily reproduce... Strut bearing was replaced under extended warranty, but sound is still there on occasion.

Kia Optima in Quebec, Canada Feb 2014 - Jan 2015
Aug 2014 4960 mi	They adjusted the trunk and repaired the facing of the paint. They adjusted the trunk and repaired the facing of the paint.

Kia Optima in California, United States Jun 2013 - Jun 2022
Nov 2016 29500 mi US $93	Transmission not shifting properly, lag at acceleration Spoiler discoloring. Was told since it was out of warranty (by 3 months) would not be repaired. Repair completed after my attorney spoke to corporate.
Jun 2018 37000 mi US $10	Weather stripping on sunroof loosened. I reattached. Second time this has happened.
Jan 2022 54000 mi US $250	Replace battery that would drain on a cold night. Was told this was usual but after asking around found out not true so took car to a different shop.

Kia Optima in Ontario, Canada Jan 2014 - Jul 2018
Sep 2016 99200 mi C $800	Replaced lower control arms including bearings on both sides of the front.
Jul 2018 150040 mi C $90	Front and Rear Brake Pads only

Kia Optima in Georgia, United States Jun 2014 - Jun 2015
May 2015 29100 mi US $1150	Radiator assembly replaced, core support replaced

Kia Optima in California, United States Apr 2013 - Sep 2018
Aug 2016 75000 mi	Wheel bearing in front, drivers side needed to be replaced. Belt idler on air conditioner was going bad.
Oct 2016 79000 mi	After front bearing replacement, bigger problem with transmission was identified. Transmission was replaced.
Sep 2018 122000 mi US $150	Front, drive side axle making unusual noise. Was removed, rust cleaned on it and the front hub, and then reinstalled.

Kia Optima in Pennsylvania, United States Apr 2014 - Jul 2020
Sep 2014 9000 mi	The brake pedal occasionally squawks when depressed, either when the car is moving or stopped. The dealer test drove the car themselves, and declared the noise to be 'normal' and related to activation of the regenerative brakes.
Jul 2017 56000 mi	Right front axle replaced under warranty - it had been clicking. Replaced a valve section connected to the brake pedal. The pedal produced a loud squawk sound when depressed in warm weather since new.

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Kia Optima in Florida, United States Apr 2013 - Jun 2014
Jun 2014 6000 mi	Replaced trunk lock.

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Kia Optima in Alabama, United States Oct 2011 - Oct 2012
Nov 2011	Subframe had mold lines not properly removed by supplier (not sanded down) - alignment pins extra mold line length rubbed on main frame from below, creating unpleasant noise and wear on the mainframe. Pins were clipped off as directed by kia
Feb 2012 4000 mi	UVO system not working with iPod

Kia Optima in Florida, United States Dec 2013 - Jul 2015
May 2014 24300 mi	Transmission heater sensor failed and was replaced under warranty

Kia Optima in Oklahoma, United States Feb 2014 - May 2014
Feb 2014 18000 mi	Electronic Power Steering seems to "center" the steering too far to the left, requiring constant effort to keep the car moving straight. Adjusted EPS computer "center" setting back to former adjustment that I remembered from another dealer
Apr 2014 22000 mi	Paint on fog light surrounds (both sides) chipping and peeling as well as fuel door. Had the car for 15 months when I noticed peeling paint while washing the car. Had the car in to repair it twice. Provided rental car for the first trip only
May 2014 22000 mi	More peeling paint that popped up when I first began to consider trading. Constituted the final straw.

Kia Optima in Louisiana, United States Mar 2013 - Mar 2015
Jun 2013 40000 mi US $5	Backup camera wouldn't come on. Took apart camera and blasted with WD40, and greased the o-rings to keep water out. No issues since.
Jan 2014 50000 mi	Common wastegate issue on the forums. Adjusted wastegate actuator rod to match spec. No problems since.
Oct 2014 81800 mi US $1081	Missing under acceleration. Bad high pressure fuel pump.
Feb 2015 91000 mi US $150	Going into limp mode under hard acceleration. Bad EWGA( Electronic Waste Gate Actuator). Replaced.
Mar 2015 91000 mi US $150	Would not cool. Made "breathing" noise. Manifold gauges showed small pressure differential. Replaced A/C expansion valve, vacuumed system, and recharged.

Kia Optima in Florida, United States May 2013 - Jul 2014
Jun 2014 14000 mi	battery died with less than 15k miles and 23 months old...

Kia Optima in Florida, United States Jan 2014 - Sep 2014
Apr 2014 30700 mi	Steering column

Kia Optima in Ontario, Canada Aug 2012 - Aug 2015
May 2014 25420 mi	Replaced exterior window trim under warranty due to rusting
Sep 2014 32860 mi	Windshield cracked by front heating element. Windshield ordered in August, replaced by dealer under warranty Driver's seat motorized track noisy. Seat track adjusted unsuccessfully by dealer back in May, then replaced after parts arrived by dealer under warranty.
Dec 2014 37200 mi	Independent mechanic noted oil dripping around oil pan and undercarriage during oil change. Dealer said they did not notice oil leaking, but replaced oil pan gasket under warranty.

Kia Optima in Ontario, Canada Aug 2012 - Mar 2015
Sep 2012 9300 mi	Heated seats didn't seem to be working. Dealer determined the switch was faulty and caused all four seats to not heat. Ordered part, will repair under warranty later in the month. iPhone will connect to Bluetooth but contact list won't sync. Was told it's a firmware issue with the navigation system, and cannot be fixed until the new firmware is released.
Oct 2012 9500 mi	Heated seat switch was replaced. Heated seats still not working, booked to find out actual cause.
Feb 2013 10540 mi	Finally solved heated seat - problem stemmed from the factory - wiring harness prong bent - caused a short circuit and the fault in the heated seats. Took 6 months to solve!
Jun 2013 14880 mi	Engine started missing at low RPM & low speed, & at highway speed. Took to dealer, determined two spark plugs had "melted themselves" - all 4 replaced. Read forums - a manufacturing fault from spark plug maker. Covered under warranty. Engine started missing at low RPM & low speed, & at highway speed. Took to dealer, determined two spark plugs had "melted themselves". Read forums - a manufacturing fault from spark plug maker. Covered under warranty.

Kia Optima in Georgia, United States Oct 2011 - Feb 2013
Nov 2012 12200 mi	Back up camera needed to be replaced because of condensation build up inside the camera

Kia Optima in California, United States Jul 2014 - Jul 2015
May 2015 67400 mi	Waste gate readjusted again. Has been done every oil change and other services. Never stays adjusted. Pedal travels to about an inch from the floor. Kia replaced master cly. once never resolved issues. Kia still denies problem exists.

Kia Optima in Florida, United States Sep 2011 - Apr 2014
Mar 2013 18000 mi	Turbo would not engage when temp was below 50F. Had to turn car off and on again to engage.

Kia Optima in Wisconsin, United States Apr 2012 - Apr 2013
Mar 2013 18000 mi	Headliner squeakes when hitting bumps in the road.

Kia Optima in Ontario, Canada Mar 2013 - Apr 2013
Apr 2013 13020 mi	Creaking noise in rear end of vehicle. Covered by service bulletin.

Kia Optima in Illinois, United States Sep 2013 - Dec 2017
Dec 2017 60000 mi	Recall on the engine. Small part replaced.

Kia Optima in Massachusetts, United States Dec 2012 - May 2013
Aug 2012 5859 mi	sunroof seal was pulled under sunroof when closing on hot days sunroof seal was pulled under sunroof on hot days. Original deal did not fix. Second dealer added adhesive to seal

Kia Optima in Ohio, United States May 2017 - Jun 2018
Oct 2017 94000 mi US $250	Parking brake was dragging, parking shoes had corroded and had to replace the parking brake shoes

Kia Optima in California, United States Apr 2013 - Oct 2014
Jun 2013 22000 mi	sensor went bad causing shifting problem oil pan leak

Kia Optima in Massachusetts, United States Nov 2016 - Jun 2022
Jun 2022 155000 mi US $450	Did not pass inspection because problem with suspension Left headlight stoped working

Kia Optima in North Carolina, United States Feb 2014 - Jun 2015
Jul 2014 42700 mi	Parking brake light stays on after being disengaged.
Dec 2014 56000 mi	Parking brake light illuminated even though it's not engaged. They can't figure out why. All I was told is maybe they will replace the master cylinder... seems to me replacing the master cylinder is asinine.
Feb 2015 56300 mi	The lighted Kia door sill burnt out. Assembly replaced.
Jun 2015 58000 mi	Parking brake light illuminated even though it's not engaged.

Kia Optima in Ohio, United States Jan 2017 - Jul 2018
Feb 2017 87000 mi	Front passenger break pad was gone, driver side was OK. Noted when car was purchased, but thought it would last a couple weeks. Failed on a road trip, replaced both rotors and pads and the passenger side caliper.
Oct 2017 100000 mi US $6750	Panoramic sunroof failed, exploded while driving with no external force. Reported to Kia, who rejected defect claim. Paid under insurance

Kia Optima in Georgia, United States Dec 2011 - Oct 2016
Mar 2012 3000 mi	Turbocharger waste gate actuator adjustment. No parts were replaced, only adjusted back to proper specs. The car was about a month old or so when the TSB was caught by the service tech.
Aug 2012 7700 mi	Emergency brake required adjustment, would not hold car on a hill.
Oct 2013 20300 mi	Front clip for stainless steel trim on driver's side rear door broken. Appears to have been 'rigged' at some point, potentially at the factory. Needs to have clip replace to hold trim tightly to car.
Nov 2013 21400 mi	Driver's rear door stainless trim replaced
Feb 2015 34400 mi	Driver's side front door weatherstrip deteriorated and came apart, causing a large amount of wind noise. Replaced by dealer at no charge.
Sep 2016 52000 mi	Back-up camera failed. Transmission position sensor switch failed, causing vehicle not start.

Kia Optima in Wisconsin, United States Jan 2014 - Mar 2015
Mar 2015 44000 mi US $88	Driver bottom seat heater not functioning. Elements replaced

Kia Optima in California, United States Sep 2015 - Jan 2016
Sep 2015 35000 mi	Engine replaced

Kia Optima in Ohio, United States Jun 2016 - Aug 2018
Oct 2016 42500 mi	Transmission temperature sensor failed
Jun 2018 66000 mi US $6	Steering coupler replaced

Kia Optima in Pennsylvania, United States Oct 2011 - May 2015
Dec 2012 9000 mi	Broken cover for screw in passenger interior door handle.
Jun 2013 14000 mi	Backup camera
Sep 2013 15000 mi	Car was driving sluggishly.
Oct 2013 15300 mi	Car was sluggish. There was some kind of adjustment needed to the waste gate for the turbo. Apparently it is a known issue as it is all over the forums and the service guy knew what the fix was before they got into the car.
Jan 2014 17500 mi	The driver-side seat heater is not working.

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Kia Optima in Indiana, United States Mar 2012 - Mar 2014
Aug 2012 4700 mi	Radio died
Oct 2012 7000 mi	Rear view camera stayed on while in drive, would not switch off unless car was restarted.
Aug 2013 18000 mi	Speaker in passenger door was distorted. Dealer replaced speaker Sunroof seal was cracked, and bent badge on back of vehicle lost a letter

Kia Optima in New York, United States Oct 2011 - Oct 2014
Sep 2014 24000 mi	Transmission sensor

Kia Optima in Ontario, Canada Jun 2012 - Jun 2016
Jun 2013 18600 mi	Navigation system produced Windows Error message is driven over about 1.5 hours and required reboot to fix. Problem unknown, pulled computer and diagnosed, no resolution, will probably replace system. Was proved with a loaner for the day.
Jul 2013 19100 mi	System replaced this week with a totally new model (warrenty covered). Upgraded graphics, faster performance, better interface, knows speed limits, not the same model that's for sure. Perhaps the nav system from the 2014 model.
Aug 2014 47120 mi	High pressure fuel pump controller failed. Car went into limp mode when automatic transmission was in drive. Manual transmission mode worked. Part was back-ordered, but dealer provided a loaner SUV for the week.
Sep 2014 51460 mi	Rust on rear door window trim. Kia not honoring warranty, dealer attempting to obtain special permission to replace trim.
Nov 2014 52700 mi	Engine light came on and car wouldn't accelerate past 15kph. Throttle Assembly has failed and took three days to get a replacement.
Jun 2016 80600 mi	It's still rusting and KIA still refuses to repair it under warranty. They assessed $700 in damages for their rust when the lease was returned.

Kia Optima in Virginia, United States Jun 2016 - Jun 2018
Dec 2016 45000 mi	Steering compartment for which a recall was issued; dealer repaired for free.

Kia Optima in Oklahoma, United States Sep 2012 - Apr 2015
Sep 2012 9000 mi	Vehicle sporadically running rough, feels like you are going down a rough road. dealer could not duplicate, I will drop it back off when I have more time to be without the vehicle.

Kia Optima in New Jersey, United States Dec 2012 - Jun 2018
Jun 2018 136000 mi	Engine timing gasket had a leak, timing belt was also replaced, steering column had to be replaced Air conditioning van selector motor has failed. The entire air conditioning system replacement was recommended for $3,600. No repair was done due to high cost

Kia Optima in Wisconsin, United States Feb 2012 - Jun 2022
Dec 2016 58000 mi	TSB for steering coupler. It was an attempt to repair/track down a clunk in the front suspension. It turns out the clunk was a brake pad shifting when going from forward to reverse. TSB for underbody corrosion cleanup and sealant application
Feb 2017 61000 mi US $20	Steering wheel station/preset control would change to FM2, AM etc and mute randomly while changing stations. The switch module was replaced twice. The 1st replacement failed 2 days later. Door handle cap broke off allowing the door handle to slide out. I ordered a new door cap and installed it. One screw, very easy to do by removing black rubber grommet on the door.
Dec 2020 98000 mi US $25	Car is using oil about 2qts between 5kmi oil changes. Dealer is performing oil consumption test.
Jun 2022 104000 mi US $45	AC would not turn on, just blowing air. Refrigerant was a little low. The system was evacuated dye addes and refilled, but while refilling the high side psi went high and would not take more refrigerant. There was a blockage. The compressor, evaporator, expansion valve were all replaced. Bad electrical socket for rear brake light. Replaced the right tailight harness

Kia Optima in Vermont, United States Jan 2015 - Mar 2018
Feb 2015 52200 mi	bad right front Ball Joint
May 2016 70000 mi	Left front wheel bearing

Kia Optima in Illinois, United States Apr 2014 - Jun 2022
Jun 2016 18000 mi	Car has "wandered" at highway speeds, making it tedious to keep straight. There was a software update to the electronic steering. Drives much better now!
Aug 2017 24500 mi	right front wheel bearing and axle replaced (possibly from over-tightening when engine was replaced.
Nov 2017 26000 mi US $106	Replaced battery

Kia Optima in Louisiana, United States Jan 2013 - Dec 2017
Oct 2014 33000 mi	Bluetooth software update...replaced backup camera
Feb 2017 64000 mi US $233	Replaced windshield washer pump

Kia Optima in Quebec, Canada May 2013 - Jun 2017
Aug 2013 24180 mi	Check engine on; error code read: P0087- fuel rail pressure too low; high pressure fuel pump was defective and was replaced.The car now runs alright again. The repair was effective and efficient.
Jan 2014 32240 mi	Trip odometers 1&2 resetting intermittently; digital gas gauge erratic readings occasionally; may be due to cold weather. Booked a service call; no problems determined; will probably book another service call if problems re-occur.
Jun 2015 56420 mi	Right tie rod replaced in May and the right tie rod was replaced in July.

Kia Optima in California, United States Feb 2012 - Dec 2019
Mar 2016 11000 mi US $180	Rodent damage to fog light wiring and windshield washer tubing.
Mar 2017 13000 mi US $160	Rodent damage to wiring. Wheel sensor and fog light.

Kia Optima in Florida, United States Nov 2011 - Jan 2015
Mar 2013 13000 mi	Crack in trim ring on upper left on ctr. of wheel.

Kia Optima in Georgia, United States Oct 2011 - Jun 2018
Aug 2015 46400 mi	Factory backup camera failed. Camera was replaced under warranty
Mar 2016 52000 mi US $129	Vinegar smell in cabin attributed to bacterial growth in AC vent system. Service of AC vent cleared the issue.

Kia Optima in Massachusetts, United States Nov 2011 - Apr 2021
Jan 2012 2000 mi	Weather Stripping around sunroof folded in. Glass removed and track re-aligned. Sanded weather stripping to prevent future issues.
Mar 2012 5000 mi	Weather Stripping around sunroof folded in. Dealer notes say the panoramic roof arm that holds the glass has shifted to the left. They compared this to a "frontline" vehicle & confirmed the issue. Tech Case opened with KIA. Weather Stripping around sunroof folded in. Tech Case authorized replacement of sunroof molding.
Apr 2012 6000 mi	Weather Stripping around sunroof folded in. Master Tech replaced molding and adjusted clips.
Jun 2013 26000 mi	XM receiver stopped getting a signal. It was continuously hunting for a signal â€“ everywhere. Dealer replaced the radio unit but this did not resolve issue. Dealer ordered new antenna and installed it. Issue seems to have been resolved.
Sep 2015 45000 mi	Interior door handle on rear passenger door needed adjustment. Sunroof outer seal folding in again.
Dec 2015 45000 mi	Coolant leaking. Dealer could not replicate. TPMS light on. Tire pressure set correctly.
Jan 2016 38300 mi	Exterior door handle cap broke off. Dealer replaced with new cap. Radiator developed hairline crack and was replaced.
Jan 2017 49300 mi US $19	Gas filler cap stopped making clicking sound. Dealer would not cover under warranty claiming wear and tear caused the issue. I purchased and installed a new gas filler gap.
Apr 2017 70795 mi	Condensation under backup camera lenses. Blurred video. Backup camera replaced under Goodwill warranty Recall to address corrosion issues. Dealer sprayed anticorrosion spray on certain parts under the vehicle. Tech accidentally sprayed anticorrosion spray on the wheels. Dealer removed wheels and cleaned them.
Jan 2018 85000 mi	Rust inside license plate light assembly. Dealer misunderstood problem and replaced license plate screws.
Feb 2018 87500 mi	I noticed the coolant level in the overflow reservoir was low but I was unable to determine the source. I took car to a mechanic who determined that the water pump is leaking through the weeping hole, provided a quote to replace water pump Took vehicle to dealer to look into leaking water pump, since water pump is under warranty until 100k. Dealer could not duplicate the issue. Follow-up on rust in license plate assembly, anti-corrosion coverage expired, but dealer took pictures and will check with district parts manager who can approve a repair under warranty.

Kia Optima in Florida, United States Sep 2011 - Nov 2015
Aug 2014 35700 mi	A/C would make a moaning noise when under 30mph and coasting. A/C would periodically go "humid", then return to cold. The valve on the inside the compressor was replaced on the first visit, didn't fix it.
Sep 2014 37000 mi	A/C fixed on second attempt after waiting for a new compressor. They ordered a 2014 compressor since they've been having lock-up problems with the 11+12's. Once it was totally replaced, everything's ok.

Kia Optima in Minnesota, United States Dec 2011 - Oct 2014
Mar 2013 24000 mi	There was a small leak around the oil pan. Fixed under warranty

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Kia Optima in Ontario, Canada Jun 2012 - Apr 2019
Jul 2012	Engine check light was on because a contact was loose for the hybrid system. It worked ok, but needed to be found and corrected.

Kia Optima in Ontario, Canada Mar 2012 - Mar 2015
Dec 2013 26040 mi	Front plastic air deflector keeps falling off. At perfect height to scrape on curbs, and not held on very well. Only a matter of time before it comes loose. Reattached with some glue.

Kia Optima in California, United States May 2013 - Jul 2014
Jun 2013 13000 mi	Pulling to the left when light braking Still pulls to left when braking
Apr 2014 43700 mi	Car told me to pull over. Took it to dealer. They changed computer and transmission

Kia Optima in New Jersey, United States May 2013 - Dec 2014
Aug 2014 19000 mi	Replaced transmission due to jerky movements, stalling when braking to a full stop. Did not fix the problem.
Dec 2014 21000 mi	Car would jerk forward when coming to a stop under Engine Mode Only. No Jerking in Electric Only Mode.

Kia Optima in Maryland, United States Nov 2012 - Jan 2022
Jul 2016 44700 mi	dealer says camera part of radio and radio out of warranty. Raised to Kia mid July, 2016. Radio and camera parts replaced. No charge.

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Kia Optima in Michigan, United States Jun 2015 - Jun 2016
Jan 2016 79000 mi US $3600	Huge knocking from engine. Allegedly oil pump failed. Engine destroyed. Dealer paid 50% of cost (total was $7200)

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Kia Optima in New York, United States Apr 2011 - Jun 2018
Sep 2011 6000 mi	Sunroof button only partly functional; requires holding it in instead of a quick push. No big deal.
Sep 2012 17000 mi	Sudden lack of power, no turbo boost at all. It "threw a code" and the car dealer's svce dpt knew what to do. Under warranty, so they provided a free rental car. I have no complaint.
Nov 2012 19700 mi	Warning light came on for brakes. Haven't taken it in yet.
Apr 2013 25000 mi	Slight oil leak at crankcase/oilpan junction; was fixed quickly under warranty.
Nov 2013 31700 mi	Brake fluid warning light continues to come on erratically. So does another warning light that refers to an instrument problem. This problem has shown itself periodically since the first 10 months but is only mildly annoying.
Mar 2014 36000 mi	Old issue: a warning light on dash which turned out to be a faulty fluid level sensor. The car's brakes always seemed fine, but my (good) dealer replaced the sensor AND the master cylinder, vac booster & pump, and gave me a loaner car.
Oct 2014 40000 mi	Paddle shifter on steering wheel: ceased functioning. Will shortly be repaired on warranty.
May 2015 48000 mi	Backup camera was slow to run; showed lines but no picture for up to 30 sec
Feb 2016 54000 mi	Left front wheel bearing getting noisy. Confirmed by mechanic to be such, but no time avail yet to do a repair, and the $345 estimate ($128 bearing; $194 labor) will induce me to shop around.
Mar 2016 56000 mi	Left frt wheel bearing was getting noisy over a period of weeks. Was replaced under warranty.
Feb 2017 64000 mi US $140	Turbo waste gate went out of spec resulting in big loss of power; much less than a non-turbo motor. Top speed about 60mph. A known issue with a couple of TSBs, but not covered by warranty. Given that problem arose at 61k, I felt cheated.
Jun 2018 78000 mi	Right front wheel bearing was getting very noisy. Covered under warranty

Kia Optima in Washington, United States May 2011 - Mar 2015
Oct 2012 18000 mi	Sun glass holder seems to have misshapen due to excessive roof heat during Summer. Compartment was on floor when I entered vehicle after work one day. No broken parts, but kept falling back out after several attempts to reinstall it.

Kia Optima in California, United States Jul 2011 - Aug 2013
Nov 2011 5000 mi	replaced Nav screen
Apr 2013 29200 mi	Voltage adjustment

Kia Optima in New York, United States Dec 2011 - Sep 2014
May 2013 9500 mi	blown engine due to cracked spark plugs. porcelain insulation from spark plugs in bank 2 and 3 fell into engine

Kia Optima in California, United States Jun 2011 - Jul 2022
Feb 2014 31000 mi	Transmission would slam into gear, and shift roughly when cold. Dealer replaced transmission oil temp sensor. Also updated computer ECU and changed brake switch which was a recall.
Dec 2016 65000 mi US $180	Rubber coupler is steering worn out causing vehicle to have slack in steering wheel. Replace coupler under warranty, A/C not cooling when interior temp is above 105 degrees. Compressor does not engage for at least 5 minutes or until interior temperature drops below 100. Dealer attempted to reprogram A/C as system cools well under other conditions or once.
Feb 2017 69000 mi	Replaced worn out steering coupler bushing that caused clunk noise in steering wheel
Nov 2021 128000 mi US $80	Excessive oil consumption, 1 qt per 1,500 miles. Treated with ring cleaner
Feb 2022 121000 mi US $150	Excessive oil consumption, new engine needed Compressor capacity control valve failed

Kia Optima in Georgia, United States Apr 2011 - Dec 2019
Aug 2013 46300 mi	The turbo gate was replaced
Jan 2017 48200 mi	The steering coupler had worn out and caused the wheel to shake. The coupler was replaced.

Kia Optima in Connecticut, United States Jun 2011 - Sep 2012
Sep 2012 25000 mi	oil leaking - bad oil pan seal

Kia Optima in Indiana, United States Jun 2013 - Dec 2016
Aug 2013 20900 mi	Intermitent issues with the car not starting,, a switch under the brake pedal was a recall and fixed the problem once replaced

Kia Optima in Pennsylvania, United States Mar 2011 - Sep 2012
Jan 2012 7000 mi	Performed TSB on key fobs

Kia Optima in Texas, United States Feb 2011 - Mar 2014
Jun 2012 24000 mi	Electric heated seat switch was bad. Rear passenger, driver side. Replaced under warranty.
Sep 2012 29000 mi	Dome light flicks on when turning a corner. Flicks on momentarily when just pushing on the drivers door. Please note this problem is caused by closing the door on the seatbelt buckle which just lines up with the door switch smashing it in.
Feb 2014 51100 mi	Sticky wastegate was causing the turbo to choke and the vehicle to lose power resulting in a sluggish speed that will not exceed 70mph. Let alone taking a long time to go from 0-60 mph. Engine light came on the next day.

Kia Optima in Georgia, United States May 2011 - Nov 2017
Apr 2015 34200 mi	Had to replace battery
Jan 2016 41000 mi US $100	Replaced Battery
Dec 2016 47000 mi	Reflash computer
Jun 2017 59000 mi US $38	A/C not cooling all of the time. Not draining properly. Used A/C evaporator cleaner P/N UM090
Nov 2017 64000 mi US $1165	turbo controller failed

Kia Optima in Ontario, Canada May 2013 - Jun 2017
Jun 2013 15500 mi	Nav locked up, replaced nav system. New nav worked until car was sold but dash rattled and could never be repaired. Fuel level sender failed replaced

Kia Optima in Utah, United States Sep 2014 - Jul 2021
Dec 2014 38000 mi	Fuel leak from high pressure fuel pump
Aug 2015 49000 mi	Roof console fell apart.
Nov 2015 51000 mi	Engine lost power. Turbo wastegate was adjusted under warranty.
Jun 2018 79000 mi US $570	Return line leaking. Replaced.

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Kia Optima in North Carolina, United States Feb 2011 - Nov 2013
Jul 2011 11700 mi	Bluetooth not functioning, head unit for sound; bluetooth, replaced
Jun 2013 46000 mi	Computer failed, was replaced

Kia Optima in Colorado, United States Feb 2011 - Dec 2015
Mar 2015 34000 mi US $30	Key fob lost its code.

Kia Optima in New York, United States Aug 2011 - Jun 2019
Sep 2011 3000 mi	Heated/Cooled driver seat had stopped working previously. A switch and a module were replaced and BCM flash done during previous attempts. Since it's now intermittent (it's stopped working again at times), they say they cannot work on it. UPDATE: around 3,500 miles so far. Heated/Cooled driver seat worked (once), mostly not working. Dealer & KIA corporate have said they won't fix it if it isn't completely dead. So I wait until it dies permanently. Might never get fixed!
Mar 2012 5000 mi	I've had ongoing issue with the heated/cooled seat. They replaced the switch a second time. Now they are ordered a new "wiring harness". Still awaiting that to come in for them to install.
Apr 2012 5300 mi	They installed the wiring harness. The system works (it was working prior to installing the harness after they cleaned the contacts), so we'll keep an eye on it if it's finally a permanent solution.
Sep 2018 34000 mi	There was a TSB for steering wheel plastic bushing. Was replaced.

Kia Optima in Virginia, United States Sep 2011 - May 2016
Feb 2013 27200 mi	Rear shock rattle

Kia Optima in Colorado, United States Mar 2011 - May 2014
Sep 2012 17000 mi	Switch in brake to start engine failed. Replaced under warranty. Dealer told me how to get it started and drove to dealer for replacement. Great service.

Kia Optima in North Carolina, United States Apr 2011 - Sep 2013
May 2012 12400 mi	loose fuse caused ac and tail lights to go out.

Kia Optima in Oregon, United States Mar 2011 - Nov 2017
Nov 2012 10300 mi	Dealer replaced under warranty a switch attached to brake pedal that prevented car from starting if brake pedal was depressed. Could still start car by holding down button for 20 sec. Dealer states it is a common problem.
Jan 2014 12700 mi	Check engine light was on, dealer replaced faulty exhaust valve control solenoid.

Kia Optima in Colorado, United States Feb 2011 - Jul 2012
Dec 2011 16000 mi	Right rear rattle. Not suspension related but the dealership thought it was a shock part. They replaced it but failed to fix the rattle. I have yet to go back.
Feb 2012 20000 mi	Factory wheel (rim), clear coat started peeling. Wheel replaced under warranty.

Kia Optima in Minnesota, United States Feb 2011 - Apr 2013
May 2011 3000 mi	Steering will intermittently pull to the left. Appears to be electric power steering related. Chassis alignment and reset of "chip" in power steering did not fix problem.....still exists. new attempt to fix original problem was not successful. update: at time car sold considered this fix satisfactory.

Kia Optima in Pennsylvania, United States Jun 2012 - Sep 2013
Sep 2012 23000 mi	Traction control light stayed on all the time, had to replace sensor

Kia Optima in Florida, United States Aug 2015 - Sep 2015
Sep 2015 25000 mi	Hose on a/c unit was leaking Freon. Had to replace and charge system.

Kia Optima in New Hampshire, United States Jun 2015 - Jun 2018
Jun 2016 65000 mi US $125	Battery tested low--replaced with OEM battery
Aug 2016 72000 mi US $105	Tie rod caused a failed yearly inspection--became loose at the knuckle due to an impact to road debris
Nov 2016 79200 mi	Driver power seat will not incline the seatback. Incline motor failure.
Dec 2016 80000 mi US $550	Drivers Seatback would not incline. Incline motor failure.
Jan 2017 80800 mi	Driver power seat will not incline the seatback. The power module for the incline motor failed.
Apr 2017 85000 mi	Replaced Driver's side headlight with LED bulb
Jun 2017 92000 mi US $450	Clockspring failed, resulting in loss of use of horn, cruise control, trip/reset button. Replaced by OEM clockspring
Dec 2017 99000 mi	Bluetooth System does not initiate; Voice recognition does not initiate Headlight diode had come off
Apr 2018 103800 mi US $400	Engine seized due to known manufacturing defect; replaced under warranty Starter replaced due to engine failure
May 2018 105000 mi US $400	Replaced all pads; Replaced rear rotors, Replaced Left Rear caliper

Kia Optima in Wisconsin, United States Jan 2014 - Mar 2016
Aug 2014 30900 mi	Check engine light came on, without loss of drivability.

Kia Optima in Alabama, United States Oct 2016 - Jun 2017
Jun 2017 59317 mi US $76	A left rear bulb marker and a new cabin air filter were replaced VERY SHORTLY, I'll bring back my KIA Optima LX for new rear brake pads and rotors

Kia Optima in Alberta, Canada Sep 2013 - Jan 2018
Jan 2018 62000 mi C $300	Coil spring on front driver side snapped, required replacement. Could not find parts from any 3rd party source (this is in Canada), was forced to get replacement spring from dealership.

Kia Optima in California, United States Sep 2015 - Nov 2021
Nov 2021 90000 mi US $25000	Engine failed with significant oil loss (1 quart for 1000 miles). KIA did not own up to the issue. I got rid of the car. Kia is a $hit car with even $hittier dealer and customer service. I am done with KIA. Period.

Kia Optima in California, United States Jan 2017 - Jan 2018
Sep 2017 50000 mi	Oil leak from pan.

Kia Optima in Ontario, Canada Sep 2013 - Sep 2017
Feb 2015 39060 mi C $400	Brake service and transmission always fishing for gears

Kia Optima in Ohio, United States May 2014 - Jun 2014
May 2014 35000 mi	Dead battery because headlights would not automatically turn off after parking in garage. WHY..I got seat belt stuck in door after closing door the car body was bent misaligning the door button that turns off lights when door is shut. Repaired by KIA Dealership...HOW..placed metal washer (as spacer) to behind door button to re-align. Thus when door is closed the headlights now turn off and the battery does not get drained.

Kia Optima in New Jersey, United States Aug 2011 - Jul 2018
Apr 2013 33800 mi	Parking sensor for Push Button Ignition replaced.
Nov 2013 42300 mi	Driver side floor mat hook became disloged from the floor.
Jun 2018 89000 mi US $140	Serpentine belt replaced due to wear.

Kia Optima in Pennsylvania, United States May 2011 - Mar 2015
Sep 2011 1000 mi	Faulty air bag sensor in passenger seat cushion.

Kia Optima in Wisconsin, United States Jul 2012 - Oct 2014
Aug 2012 30500 mi	Brake switch replaced because it was affecting starting the vehicle keyless ignition.

Kia Optima in Texas, United States Mar 2012 - Apr 2012
Apr 2012 17000 mi	Light sensor went out for auto-on headlight Radio display flicker brightly when accelerating at night with headlights on. Heated steering wheel top half stopped working

Kia Optima in New Jersey, United States Dec 2012 - May 2017
Oct 2014 51700 mi	Left front wheel bearing noisy
Aug 2016 88600 mi US $150	Right front Hub Bearing Noisy

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Kia Optima in California, United States Nov 2011 - Sep 2015

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Kia Optima in Arizona, United States Aug 2017 - Sep 2017
Sep 2017 105961 mi US $43	Had an extended unlimited mileage warranty put out by Kia for the steering wheel coupler needing replacement. Noticed that my car was making a clunking noise inside the steering column every time I drove on a rough road. The dealership replaced the coupler and the clunking completely disappeared. The service manager said that my coupler was slightly worn and that the new coupler is made of a better material that lasts longer. The 12v battery kept intermittently dying and had to be jumped frequently. The dealership told me that they tested my alternator and it checked fine but, my battery failed when tested. During the time frame that the 12v battery was dying and even after replacement, the car started having rough idling (almost sounded like it was going to stall) when ever I would stop, start off in reverse or in drive. The car would lose power going up small hills and would sound as if it was starving from air/fuel. I received a CEL for PO106 MAP Sensor code. I removed the map sensor and cleaned it good with a cloth that was sprayed with contact cleaner. There was minimal residue left on the rag from the sensor. After resetting the CEL and test driving the car, the rough idling/attempting to stall continued as described above. After further investigation, I noticed that the air intake hose prior to the MAP sensor/engine was slightly offset to the point that there was a gap on one portion of the intake hose. After loosening the clamp all the way and loosening the intake filter cover, I was able to re-align the intake hose and tighten everything down. I then reset my car and test drove it around my subdivision. The rough idle initially was there but, once my actual engine kicked on and a vacuum was established it seemed to return back to its normal self. I test drove it for a few miles and there was no rough idle at stops or the sound of wanting to stall. We did order a new Map Absolute Pressure Sensor overnight so if the problem comes back I will swap that piece out if needed. Will drive car tomorrow to see if the problem returns.

Kia Optima in Ontario, Canada Jul 2013 - Sep 2014
Mar 2014 81840 mi	Rear stabilizers .. KIA dealer found it was a covered repair.
Jul 2014 90360 mi C $520	Front control arms require replacement ... Had been in the shop before for the report of this clunk/noise but dealer could not duplicate. Took mechanic out and noise heard .. requires replacement but still dealing with the dealer over repair

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Kia Optima in Minnesota, United States Jun 2017 - Jul 2019
Mar 2018 160000 mi US $1200	Replacement due to wear and tear

Kia Optima in Kansas, United States Jan 2018 - Jun 2018
Mar 2018 139000 mi US $180	Ignition cylinder lock would not turn with key. Replaced the unit.

Kia Optima in New Jersey, United States Jun 2017 - Jun 2018
Apr 2018 141693 mi US $690	Small leak from front crank seal and from valve cover. Replaced valve cover gasket and installed new front crank seal by removing timing chain cover.

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Kia Optima in Georgia, United States Feb 2011 - Aug 2013
Mar 2012 23000 mi US $115	Battery failed, and it was an OEM. Replacement installed by AAA Road Service at residence
Apr 2012 23300 mi US $125	Trunk latch had become out of adjustment. This resulted in a constant battery drain as a signal light showing trunk light was remaining on. Dealer adjusted latch so trunk lid would properly close
Dec 2012 27000 mi US $271	Tire Pressure Monitoring System, sensor failed and was discovered damaged likely from a previously installed set of tires purchased elsewhere and improperly installed.

Kia Optima in Idaho, United States Mar 2010 - Nov 2013
Feb 2010 250 mi	Warranty repair on back passenger cloth panel, Cloth coming loose, Noticed on test drive Dealer Replaced panel..
Nov 2013 27000 mi US $20	Driver inside door handle broke in half for no reason just broke in our hand when using it..Also plastic covering on visors coming away from mirrors and cloth coming off door panels.. All repairs covered by Kia

Kia Optima in North Carolina, United States Feb 2011 - Jan 2022
Mar 2016 39000 mi	The car downshifts rough at 22 mph when the engine is cold. The nearest dealer is over 30 miles away & they want me to rent a car & leave my car for up to a week. I have decided to drive the car until it is no longer drive-able.
Jan 2017 27600 mi	Car still downshifts rough at 22 miles an hour. I have not taken it in to repair as I have seen horror stories on the internet & many have this problem & it is supposedly a computer problem. Would like it fixed for free though. Car still downshifts at 22 miles per hour when engine is cold. Warming up car does not help, must drive for 10 miles or more before car shifts normally. No repair done. Kia wants me to leave car at dealership for up to a week & rent a car. I continue to drive as is but slow when car nears 22 MPH.
Oct 2017 43000 mi	Same problem as before, rough downshifts at 22 mp....after driving approximately 10-15 miles it does not do it anymore. Kia wants me to leave car there for at least a week & rent a car at my own expense. I only have a year left on drive train warranty so I am going to have to at some point....til then I am driving & trying to slow down before I get to the 22 mph mark.
Jul 2018 52000 mi	Same problem as before, downshifts at 22 mph until I drive it for ten minutes or so...warming up engine does not stop the rough downshift, I must drive it before it is not felt.

Kia Optima in Minnesota, United States - Sep 2009
Sep 2009 396 mi	seat latch was loose.

Kia Optima in Texas, United States Sep 2013 - Jun 2016
Oct 2013 61000 mi	Airbag sense under passenger seat went out. While it's out of the factory warranty, the extended warranty is covering it.

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Kia Optima in New York, United States Oct 2012 - Jan 2014
Jan 2014 53000 mi	Headlight automatically turning off when car shut off do not function properly

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Kia Optima in Massachusetts, United States Jun 2011 - Oct 2021
Nov 2011	Steering and suspension, repair

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Kia Optima in Missouri, United States - Nov 2010
Jan 2010 18510 mi	Engine seems unusually loud and buzzy during acceleration. Dealer test drove and examined onboard diagnostic computer information. They admit engine sounds unusually noisy, but claimed that they were unable to find anything unusual otherwise.
Jun 2010 22500 mi US $157	AC was slow to cool cabin. System was down 0.75 lb. of refrigerant. Schroeder valve was found to be loose. System purged and recharged. Not considered a warranty repair by Kia.
Aug 2010 25100 mi US $155	Driver's side sunvisor broke with a loud cracking sound. Local dealer said it was abuse, not covered under warranty. Fixed it at dealer as he said that old sunvisor couldn't be put back on. Filed written complaint to Kia corporate.
Nov 2010 27000 mi US $155	Battery was not holding charge. Replaced.

Kia Optima in Texas, United States - Dec 2009
Oct 2008 20000 mi US $650	All the factory tires wore out badly for no reason and cant keep the alignment from going out every month.
Jun 2009 51000 mi US $6500	Well the transmission started making a weird noise while out of town on a road trip to Maryland from Texas which Kia said it was about to die. It resulted in my trip being 4 days longer w/o pay stuck wo a rental till it came in from Kia to be replaced.
Jul 2009 52500 mi US $400	Well before they said the transmission was bad the last time they tried telling me it was the fuel pump which i stated it was not the fuel pump but was the transmission .so was replaced at no cost 4 no reason.
Dec 2009 82000 mi	the auto locks no longer work after trans number 2 went in. Seems no matter how well you do the services at kia and keep up on oil changes they seem okay other then transmission issues and crappy lights. Brakes and tires. Great road trip car tho.

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Kia Optima in North Carolina, United States Nov 2010 - Jun 2011
Dec 2010 111000 mi US $1500	Car in/out shop from OCT.Clutch would'nt go into gear.1st mech thought bad seal replaced, did it again.Towed x2.Sat at mech shop x 2 week.Took to another shop & replaced Master Cylinder.Did it again.Replaced clutch & Master.

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Kia Optima in Newfoundland / Lab., Canada - Apr 2009
Apr 2009 17980 mi	Replace block heater harness on warranty

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Kia Optima in Michigan, United States Sep 2008 - Oct 2014
Dec 2008 17000 mi	Key would not turn in ignition. Called Kia roadside. They towed the vehicle to the dealership for no cost. The mechanic put some antifreeze in the ignition, and the problem has not recurred. I didn't pay any part of it, and it was fixed quick. Very happy!
Apr 2011 66000 mi	Transmission was shifting strange. Dealer drove it, confirmed problem - reprogrammed shifting software. Noted that axleshaft was seized in hub, causing intermittent rubbing sound. Replaced axleshaft and hub. All work covered under warranty.
Nov 2013 93300 mi US $150	Replaced front struts, ball joints and sway bar links

Kia Optima in Colorado, United States Jul 2008 - Jun 2011
Jun 2008	mirror replacement - unknown reason for failure - Kia dealership replaced via warranty repair
Aug 2010 57000 mi	Driver side mirror broke - Dealership claimed would replace under warranty after primary driver (17 yrs old) called a couple of months before and wasn't told warranty would cover - Adult contacted dealership and repair arranged by dlrship. severe paint chipping on rear bumper - dlrship service mgr had pics from Mar 2010- agreed unusual - refused to repair due to no recall and escalation to Regional Mgr failed to acknowledge - took 2 months to schedule in town- unable to meet interior sun visor (passenger side) suddenly dropped down/broke while driving - Dlrship indicated several of same problem lately - replaced both driver & pasngr sun visor's under warranty with "potential recall" pending on TSB.

Kia Optima in Georgia, United States Oct 2011 - Mar 2013
Oct 2012 98000 mi	All drive pulleys, belt tensioner, alternator, A/C compressor, transmission mount, and side hydraulic engine mount were replaced through my extended warranty plan.

Kia Optima in Pennsylvania, United States May 2007 - May 2011
Jun 2007 650 mi US $16550	No horns. I don't know if the car was delivered that way because I never tried the horns when I left the car dealership. Didn't discover the problem for a few weeks. Who tries the horn untill you need it. ( No Horns ) I never tried the horns when I bought the Optoma, but didn't work after trying at a later date. Horns were shorted out & ordered.Replaced with no problem.
Aug 2007 3000 mi	Returned car for horn problem.Repaired. So far so good. Well it happened again (No Horns) Took the car back to the dealer to find they could not find the problem after 2 1/2 hrs of waiting. Got a loaner and left the car there. The next day they called to tell me they found the trouble. Will it pick up tomorrow
Nov 2007 5000 mi	tire pressure dash light came on. Checked tire pressure ok. Called kia & they told me to add 2# pressure to tires from 30# to 32#. That did the trick The light went off.

Kia Optima in Nebraska, United States Jan 2012 - Sep 2014
Sep 2012 79000 mi	Master cylinder of the brake system had to be replaced. It had failed and wasn't getting good brake pressure.
Jan 2014 US $900	Front struts had failed and were replaced.

Kia Optima in California, United States Mar 2012 - Feb 2022
Oct 2021 246000 mi US $1200	Replaced AC unit

Kia Optima in Florida, United States Sep 2013 - Dec 2015
Nov 2013 67300 mi US $45	Sway bar links were worn and making noise. New ones were ordered on line and replaced by owner. Driver's side sun visor would not stay up. Ordered a new one on line and replaced the bad one.
Dec 2013 68000 mi	TPMS light comes on intermittently when there is no difference in tire pressure in any of the tires. dealer checked and reset the sensors. the problem is not solved.
Oct 2014 76000 mi US $10	The switch in the driver's door jamb was broken and would not turn on the dome light when the driver's door was opened. The repair took 5 minutes and cost $9.47.
Dec 2015 91000 mi	The problem with the TPMS light was never solved. Online research indicated it was likely the body control module (BCM). At the time we sold the car, the TPMS light was constantly on, even though the tires were all properly inflated.

Kia Optima in Texas, United States Jan 2015 - Feb 2015
Feb 2015 113000 mi	Engine caught fire at 113k Miles while traveling on highway. Unknown cause. Total loss.

Kia Optima in Alabama, United States Apr 2013 - Nov 2019
Dec 2016 101000 mi US $49	Upper and lower radiator hose replacement due to lower hose leak.
May 2018 117000 mi US $100	Replaced worn tie rods. Took car to budget brakes for an alignment afterwards.

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Kia Optima in Texas, United States May 2011 - Jul 2012
Oct 2011 94000 mi US $600	Hydraulic went out in clutch. Car wouldn't move.
Jan 2012 99000 mi US $872	Shifter cable broke....this is a manual transmission
Jul 2012 100000 mi	Leak in the parking brake line...would cost approx. $1,000 to fix

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Kia Optima in Wisconsin, United States Jul 2009 - Jan 2011
Sep 2010 80000 mi US $1	Starter motor would not crank occasionally.

Kia Optima in North Carolina, United States Dec 2010 - Aug 2014
Dec 2011 72000 mi US $125	The air bag light kept coming on. Dealer replaced air bag module, then the control module, and finally the clock spring which has fixed the problem for good. Covered under third party extended warranty.
Jan 2013 89000 mi US $75	Power steering pressure hose had a small leak and was replaced.
Aug 2014 107000 mi US $1800	Car started to shudder at highway speeds and the MIL illuminated. Code P0741 was present and dealer quoted a replacement transmission. Car was not repaired and traded in before transmission failed which may have taken days or weeks.

Kia Optima in Puerto Rico Jun 2015 - Jan 2018
Sep 2015 109000 mi US $25	Engine stalled after gasoline added to tank. Purge control valve replaced.
Apr 2016 115 mi US $360	Timing belt replaced.
Aug 2017 129000 mi US $1000	AC system replaced, compressor, dryer, cooling panel Alternator replaced Power steering pump replaced

Kia Optima in New York, United States Dec 2006 - Dec 2016
Dec 2008 35000 mi	Control arm bushing noisy. Waiting for replacement control arm
Mar 2009 38000 mi	Cross arm bushings replaced, problem was noise when driving over uneven payment. Problem cured. Replaced control arm bushing under warrantee
Feb 2011 59800 mi	Replaced Sun visors under warranty Replaced Sun visors under warranty
Nov 2011 66700 mi US $330	Check engine light came on. Car went into limp mode and would not go over 20 MPH. Dealer replaced Throttle position sensor.
Jun 2016 107000 mi US $650	one rear caliber bad, replaced both rear brake rotors and pads replaced both front anti sway bars
Sep 2016 110000 mi US $400	Starter became intermittent. Had starter replaced

Kia Optima in Wisconsin, United States Apr 2007 - Sep 2013
Jun 2007 5000 mi	The check engine light came on and stayed on for three days. Kia replaced an air intake sensor. The passenger side seat sensor for the air bag was not working properly. Kia replaced the seat bottom but it did not fix the problem. Now Kia is having a rep s
Jul 2007 5500 mi	Kia rep flashed computer for pass. side airbag seat sensor. Appears to be working correctly now.

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Kia Optima in New Hampshire, United States Dec 2006 - Mar 2010
Aug 2007 15000 mi	air conditioner compressor caused whining noise at idle and at acceleration.
Sep 2007 19000 mi	audible noise from engine compartment in the nature of a whining noise. air conditoner compressor source of problem; fixed and no futher noise.

Kia Optima in Pennsylvania, United States Dec 2006 - Jun 2009
Jan 2007 4000 mi	Passenger seat bottom sensor defective causing passenger air bag light to come on when a passenger sat in seat and for the airbag system to be inoperative. Repairs took over 30 days due to parts availability.
Feb 2007 6000 mi	Passenger air bag indicator repeated an intermittent off signal when passenger was in seat. Kia rep was called in to update software.
Jul 2007 10000 mi	Passenger airbag system again malfunctioning, intermittently, with a passenger under 140#s. Dealer still can't find problem.
Aug 2008 20000 mi	Reflash for proper emission testing.

Kia Optima in Pennsylvania, United States Dec 2006 - Jul 2008
Jun 2007 3000 mi	Replacement of malformed (warped) plastic instrument panel gauge trim cover. Purely cosmetic. Replacement part has been received at dealership, will be installed on 7/6.
Jul 2007 3600 mi	Replacement of malformed (warped) plastic instrument panel gauge trim cover. Purely cosmetic. Replacement part has been received at dealership, will be installed on 7/6. Replacement of dashboard gauge cover (cosmetic flaw)
Aug 2007 8000 mi	Chrome-painted trim around cruise control switches on steering wheel began losing its paint (purely cosmetic) -- replacement switch assembly ordered and successfully installed within a week. Install new cruise switch assembly. Replacement of cruise control switch module (cosmetic flaw)

Kia Optima in Illinois, United States Dec 2006 - Jun 2018
Jan 2007 3000 mi	Passenger side air bag light intermittently came on indicating the air bag was not functioning. They cant seem to figure out why the passenger side air bag periodically fails.Also the headlights have a weird pattern. 4 visits to date.
Feb 2007 3500 mi	Passenger seat didnt read a passengers presence very often.Since the repair,two weeks ago no problems. Extremely poor gas consumption.As low as 12.2 MPG.Measured by dividing miles by gallons. On Feb 12th,the area tech reflashed the seat sensors and that seemed to fix it.Unfortunately after they fixed the low air in the tires indicator,that is failing again.Shows a false low air signal.

Kia Optima in Tennessee, United States Jun 2007 - May 2021
Aug 2007 25826 mi US $10	Flat tire repair, rear driver.
Apr 2008 16367 mi US $13	Touchup paint.
May 2011 70000 mi US $15	Replaced rear upper trunk weather seals.
Jul 2012 73104 mi US $10	Add power steering fluid.
Mar 2013 78609 mi US $131	Resurfaced rear rotors, replace rear brake pads.
Jul 2013 87000 mi US $400	Car out of alignment, front rotors turned.
Jul 2014 93000 mi US $15	Polished headlamp lenses
Aug 2014 94000 mi US $52	Replaced original windshield moulding with OEM part. Original shrank.
Sep 2014 94000 mi US $75	Windshield trim shrank and front windshield leaked causing water stains on the headliner.
Apr 2015 97300 mi US $46	Passenger side interior sun visor broken, ordered replacement.
May 2015 98000 mi	Windshield moulding still detaching, had to use window silicone to reattach again to the body.
Aug 2016 101000 mi US $4	Replaced exhaust pipe bracket.
Oct 2016 103000 mi US $22	Replaced blower motor resistor. Replaced windshield wipers.
Mar 2017 120441 mi US $309	New front tires, four wheel alignment. Vehicle out of alignment.
Aug 2017 128000 mi US $7	Replaced driver low beam bulb.
Nov 2017 131000 mi US $22	Both rear lower control arms replaced due to corrosion Replace fuel filler cap.
Dec 2017 131000 mi US $22	Replaced front brake pads.
Apr 2018 139000 mi US $80	Replaced rear brake pads and rotors.
May 2018 146000 mi	Removed windshield molding, OEM molding (which was replaced) shrank over time. Seeking aftermarket replacement.
Jul 2018 146000 mi US $14	Replaced H7 low beam bulb
Sep 2018 154000 mi US $12	Windshield washer fluid level sensor replaced. Radiator/ac condenser cleaned with coil cleaner.
Oct 2018 154500 mi US $117	Battery replaced. Replace front tires.
Apr 2019 157000 mi US $14	Four wheel alignment, upper stabilizer link broken/replaced. [towed] Sand/primer rust spot passenger side A-pillar.
Sep 2019 158000 mi US $52	Tire replacement/rotation
Oct 2019 159000 mi US $12	Polish headlamp lenses
Apr 2020 163000 mi US $46	Replace brake light bulb. Replace engine splash shield.
May 2020 163400 mi US $93	Replace rear driver side door lock actuator.
May 2021 172000 mi US $40	Replace trunk lid struts

Kia Optima in Washington, United States Mar 2010 - Jun 2011
Apr 2010 103000 mi US $6	Check engine light on. MAF sensor error. Cleaned with MAF sensor cleaner. Check engine light on. MAF sensor error. Cleaned with MAF sensor cleaner.

Kia Optima in Illinois, United States Apr 2017 - May 2018
Sep 2017 157000 mi US $65	Along with an oil change the right front Headlamp burned out and was changed following a pattern in which front headlamps have been replaced about every year for the past 5 years.

Kia Optima in Missouri, United States May 2007 - May 2011
Jan 2011 39000 mi	TSB on stuck throttle actuator. Cleaned and corrected problem of only being able to reach speeds of 15 mph

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Kia Optima in North Dakota, United States Jan 2007 - Mar 2010
Oct 2007 5000 mi	Rough idle at startup, then engine dies after short period.

Kia Optima in Tennessee, United States Mar 2007 - Mar 2010
Apr 2007 1000 mi	Tire pressure sensor was defective. Replaced defective tire pressure sensor.

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Kia Optima in Wisconsin, United States - Jul 2007
Jul 2007 10200 mi	switch for heating & cooling system

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Kia Optima in Pennsylvania, United States Sep 2011 - Sep 2011
Sep 2011 104000 mi	oil pan major rust shocks soon to go check engine light on (sometimes off briefly with cleaner)

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Kia Optima in California, United States Jun 2013 - Sep 2013
Jul 2013 70000 mi	engine light on, fuel sensor cleaned, leak @ intake manifold. Have to take Shinny Pig back to Shop to fix, need smog check.

Kia Optima in Florida, United States Sep 2012 - Oct 2012
Oct 2012 50000 mi US $300	CV joints Disc brake, brake pads, and oil leak Engine mounts (rubber) to dampen noise worn

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Kia Optima in Texas, United States Jun 2013 - Dec 2013
Jul 2013 48200 mi	Fuel pump

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Kia Optima in United Arab Emirates Nov 2010 - Apr 2014
Dec 2010 46500 mi ¤150	Onboard computer could not be read by device used by service team. Received suggestion to replace the onboard computer.
Apr 2013 59100 mi ¤600	Shock absorber
Sep 2013 62000 mi ¤400	Oil leak in rear suspension
Apr 2014 66340 mi	Vehicle was sluggish. Failed to start on a very cold morning. Brake fluid was replaced. Engine oil and filter was changed.

Kia Optima in New York, United States Jan 2015 - Apr 2016
Jun 2015 102000 mi US $36	Lower right ball joint required replacement. Ball joint is integral to control arm so the control arm was replaced. It took removal of 2 bolts to remove old. Total repair took about an hour.
Apr 2016 109000 mi	3rd gear failing

Kia Optima in Alabama, United States Dec 2013 - Dec 2014
Jan 2014 114000 mi	Car was stumbling and stalling and dying. Bought cleaner for gas tank.( foam and water remover.) Replaced spark plugs. Bought code reader. Codes indicated bad 1-4 coil. Replaced. So far so good.
May 2014 121000 mi US $60	Spark plug burned up with 10000 miles. High compression pressure compared to next cylinders. Replaced Injector. (Carbon buildup)

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Kia Optima in Florida, United States Jul 2010 - Jun 2011
Aug 2010 101000 mi US $276	the timing belt broke and had to be replaced.

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Kia Optima in Colorado, United States Apr 2009 - Jul 2010
Sep 2009 71000 mi US $270	Car started to idle rough at stop lights, then began to stall. Problem was Throttle Position Sensor which was replaced.
Jul 2010 82000 mi	Went on road trip, after driving in 90+ degree weather and through mountains the car stalled out twice, each time on a different day. After letting it cool, the car started up and was fine. Possibly vapor lock.

Kia Optima in Georgia, United States May 2009 - Aug 2012
Oct 2010 151000 mi US $170	Window regulator went out, the window would roll all the way down, but roll only halfway up. It was the driver's window regulator.
Jun 2012 175000 mi US $150	Air was not blowing cold since summer of 2011. Decided to get it fixed. Not sure if there is a slow leak or not. The service rep said that there was no noticeable leak, but they did put in some dye just in case.

Kia Optima in Oklahoma, United States Dec 2010 - Jan 2012
Dec 2011 127000 mi	The airbag light kept coming on then off for several months. Now it is permanent. Am told that is expensive to repair and I am on limited income. Will have to wait a few months.
Jan 2012	The timing belt shatter (just coming up time for another change) and ruined the engine. Repairs would have cost 4000.00. Just couldn't see spending that much for this old of a car. It is up for salvage sale. Airbag light on when sold.

Kia Optima in Ohio, United States Dec 2007 - Oct 2011
Oct 2007 43000 mi	Air bag light went on. Not sure what the fix was, since the service guy basically couldn't tell me what they did since the actual mechanic had left for the day.

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Kia Optima in Virginia, United States Dec 2013 - Oct 2014
Dec 2013 135000 mi US $100	Rough engine. Required motor mounts. Chose not to replace at this time.
Oct 2014 143000 mi	Timing belt failure. Bent valves in engine. Too expensive for repair. Sold car to someone who can fix it on the cheap.

Kia Optima in California, United States Jun 2009 - Sep 2016
Jul 2009 83000 mi US $800	Flywheel broke. Newer "dual mass" type flywheel is very expensive ($1000) but was covered under warranty along with labor ($350). Failure damaged the clutch and pressure plate which were not covered ($350). Clutch pressure plate! I drive 95% freeway miles - hardly any shifting.
Sep 2010 106000 mi US $200	Leaking high pressure AC hose. Replaced hose, recharged system.
Dec 2011 128000 mi US $60	Crankshaft position sensor failed. Apparently a common occurance with this model. It's behind the timing belt cover which is behind the power steering/AC belt and alternator/water pump belt. Difficult repair, but I did it myself.
Feb 2014 166000 mi US $60	Leaking valve cover gasket.
May 2015 190300 mi US $50	Cooling system not working properly. Computer is not properly commanding fans. New computer is $1000. Fans are connected to manual switches now, still overheating. Replaced water pump at recent timing belt change. Radiator is next.
Aug 2015 194600 mi	Replaced radiator, still overheats. Ended up routing windshield washer nozzles to in front of radiator. I give it a few sprays and this cools it right down. Fixed, sort of... Car isn't worth spending any money on so I'm going to live with it.
Jun 2016 209000 mi	So it turns out this beast isn't overheating at all. Problem is all to do with the ECU. It won't smog now due to this issue so i can't register it w/o spending more than the car is worth. CA will supposedly buy it from me for $1000.
Sep 2016 209000 mi	ECU issue never fixed.

Kia Optima in Arizona, United States Mar 2009 - Dec 2014
Jul 2009 42000 mi US $72	Slightly squeaking belt. High pressure power steering hose had begun leaking at the joint between the hose and the crimp connector at the PS pump end. The drips were falling on the PS serpentine belt. Took hose to A/C shop and had the end replaced.
Nov 2011 65000 mi	Finally after 6.5 years and 65,000 miles, the first non-maintenance repair -- a split CV joint boot. Shop spotted a small hole in the other and replaced it, too. Work done under warranty.
Oct 2012 73500 mi US $175	Check Engine light, intermittent tach. P0320 error. Traced to failing ignition sensor. Purchased sensor from dealer and replaced myself (2 bolts and a plug). [3rd repair, 2nd not covered by mfg warr, since new. <$250 total. Not bad!]
Dec 2013 84000 mi US $250	Replaced ignition amplifier

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Kia Optima in Ohio, United States Feb 2013 - Mar 2013
Mar 2013 113000 mi	the brake system keeps locking up

Kia Optima in Virginia, United States Mar 2011 - May 2014
Jun 2011 195000 mi US $225	MIL, Pre-Converter Temp Low. Replaced pre-converter.
Sep 2011 203000 mi US $110	Shop replaced timing belts and did not set the balance shaft timing correctly. Caused excessive engine vibration that contributed to the early failure of the harmonic balancer. Replaced with used part.
May 2012 223800 mi US $395	A/C Compressor failed. Evac system, replace compressor, drier, and expansion valve, recharge system.
Sep 2012 238000 mi US $220	Horrible engine vibration. Dealer diagnosed bad ignition coil...quoted $550 to repair. Purchased 2 new coils and new plugs for $170 and self performed repairs.
Jun 2013 263000 mi US $150	Replaced Front Struts Replace Driveshafts
Aug 2013 268000 mi US $68	Drivers door latch failed closed. Safety issue as the driver's door would not open from the inside or out. Ordered replacement latch (dealer only part) and fixed. Took about 3 days for the part to arrive.
May 2014 284000 mi	Catastrophic timing belt failure. Engine destroyed. Not worth repairing the car.

Kia Optima in Washington, United States Mar 2011 - Nov 2016
Oct 2013 108300 mi US $1155	Bad crankshaft sensor was causing car to stall. Replaced: crankshaft sensor, balance shaft belt, camshaft seal Valve cover leaking. Replaced spark plug seal and valve cover gasket. Front left CV boot cracked. Replaced left front axle shaft assembly

Kia Optima in New York, United States Jul 2011 - Jun 2012
Jan 2012 106000 mi US $150	Replaced faulty pulley and replaced belt

Kia Optima in Texas, United States Jun 2010 - Dec 2011
Aug 2010 104000 mi US $700	timing sensor replace
Jun 2011 113000 mi US $198	broken power steering hose

Kia Optima in Texas, United States Jan 2012 - Jan 2014
Nov 2012 139000 mi US $65	Engine misfire sensor had been bad, making tachometer inoperative, and illuminating CEL. Sensor replaced, problems corrected. Replaced engine misfire sensor. Bad sensor rendered tachometer inoperative, and lit the CEL.
Jan 2013 141000 mi US $80	Battery finally died, was approx. 5 years old, which is a good lifespan in the desert southwest.

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Kia Optima in North Carolina, United States Jul 2014 - Oct 2020
Aug 2014 183000 mi US $24	Replaced low beam headlights
Jan 2015 US $60	Replaced drivers side axle Replaced all struts
Oct 2016 197000 mi US $100	Replaced upper control arms.

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Kia Optima in Missouri, United States Oct 2013 - Nov 2013
Nov 2013 150000 mi US $300	Car would only start when the engine was cold, after it warmed up car would die and not start again until it cooled off and then still sometimes it still would not start. Shop said Crankshaft Position sensor was bad, so we replaced the CPS.

Kia Optima in Missouri, United States Mar 2011 - Jun 2018
Jan 2012 139000 mi US $39	Engine vibration - replaced forward R/H engine mount.
Aug 2015 183400 mi US $300	Left rear brake caliper froze. Replaced caliper and pads, replaced brake rotor.
Apr 2016 191000 mi US $85	Running rough, trouble code P-0303. Replaced spark plugs, ignition coils, and plug wires.
Aug 2016 194000 mi US $1050	Code P0320. Replaced ignition fail sensor, replaced cam sensor, replaced crank sensor, replaced ECM. Crack in radiator tank. Replaced timing belt and water pump. Small belt for vibration damper had failed.

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Kia in Illinois, United States Jan 2015 - Jan 2016
Mar 2015 124000 mi US $147	A sensor and belt were replaced because the car failed to start. Shortly afterward the oil pan showed that it had rusted through. Estimated amount. Total for this and preceding repair was $747.89. Update: still have oil leak.

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Kia Optima repairs by problem area

Kia Optima repair cost distribution

2019 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2019 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2017 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2017 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2017 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2016 Kia Optima

2016 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2016 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2015 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2015 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2015 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2014 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2014 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2014 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2013 Kia Optima

2013 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2013 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2013 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2013 Kia Optima 4-door

2012 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2012 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2012 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2011 Kia Optima

2011 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2011 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2011 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2011 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2010 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2009 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2009 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2008 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2008 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2007 Kia Optima

2007 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2007 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2007 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2006.5 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2006.5 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2006.5 Kia Optima 4-door

2006 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2005 Kia Optima

2005 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2005 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2005 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2004 Kia Optima

2004 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2004 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2004 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2003 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2003 Kia Optima 4dr Sedan

2002 Kia Optima

Kia Optima Repair Histories