NHTSA Data Explorer
Kia Optima
Data refreshed September 6, 2026
Select a model year to filter results to that year of the Kia Optima.
Complaints
7,792
Active records
Recalls
24
Active records
TSBs
781
Active records
Filing history
Monthly totals over the last 20 years. Click a legend item to show or hide that series.
Reported severity
Based on consumer complaints filed since 2000. Recalls and TSBs do not include severity data.
Deaths
18
Injuries
276
Crashes
328
Fires
428
Top reported issues — Kia Optima
Click a category to expand its values.
Operating state
Condition issue
Reporting mechanism
Engine behavior
Noise
Performance issue
Fluid issue
Thermal issue
Safety restraint issue
Access/entry issue
Steering behavior
Vibration/harshness
Lighting behavior
Starting behavior
Braking behavior
Driver assistance issue
Transmission/drivetrain behavior
Ride/handling behavior
Electrical issue
Smell
Safety restraint behavior
Electrified system issue
Powering on/off behavior
Recent change
HVAC behavior
Infotainment behavior
Wiper/washer behavior
Communication/network issue
Charging behavior
Recent filings
The 10 most recent filings for each type.
2020 KIA OPTIMA
Filed Sep 1, 2026
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle intermittently stalled and lost automotive power, with an abnormal odor entering the cabin through the air vents. The vehicle was restarted and returned to normal operation; however, the failure reoccurred. The Service In message flashed on and off on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the low-pressure fuel pump needed to be…
2013 KIA OPTIMA
Filed Aug 31, 2026
Module 1 7.5 amp fuse continues to short and blow over and over again. Known issues with auto headlamp leveling sensor. Problem continues to happen. Lose my highbeams, shift lock, rear defrost, rearview auto dimmer, steering wheel controls. Anytime the fuse blows
2013 KIA OPTIMA HYBRID
Filed Aug 31, 2026
Based on reading some service forms, it seems it may be the hydraulic booster, causing the issue. In order for them to take a look at the brakes system. I was charged a upfront diagnostics fee of $316. While driving warning light comes on Check brake system then the car slows down to 10mph immediately. While pressing on the brakes they squeaking, very badly. I have to turn the car off and back on until the flashing Check brake system turns off. This happens every 5 to 10 minutes while…
2020 KIA OPTIMA
Filed Aug 30, 2026
I have a 2020 Optima, apparently there is a recall for the older models, yet mine is experiencing the exact same issues. Over oil consumption leading to engine failure. I have been in a rental for a month and a half due to fighting with Kia to correct the issue all while they drag their feet. Smells like another class action.
2014 KIA OPTIMA
Filed Aug 30, 2026
I owe a lady made a complete stop in front of me and I hit her. I wasn’t traveling close behind her. Her car was not damaged at all, but my Kia was totaled from the front. They had to cut the car off because it was smoking like it was gonna catch a fire. I’ve been had this sign on my car the steering wheel with an! It says that the car is hot before the car accident I had driven to [XXX] back to my house in the car motor was just shaking up under even though the car was off about 1015 minutes a…
2014 KIA OPTIMA
Filed Aug 28, 2026
The component was the engine. The engine has since been replaced. The safety of myself or others was not in immediate danger before the engine seized. Luckily my mechanics employee was test driving for other issues at the time. My mechanic said it was likely due to the recalls that have been issued from KIA. Unfortunately the engine was seized so the dealership I had the car towed to was unable to inspect the motor for the recall because of the engine seizing. The vehicle was not inspected by…
2020 KIA OPTIMA
Filed Aug 27, 2026
I own a 2020 Kia Optima and have been experiencing multiple ongoing problems with the vehicle. The vehicle is leaking and/or losing engine oil at an excessive rate. I have had to add oil multiple times within a short period of time because the oil level continues to drop. I am concerned that the continued loss of oil could result in engine damage or engine failure while the vehicle is being driven. I am also experiencing an electrical problem with the vehicle. The air conditioning and heating…
2007 KIA OPTIMA
Filed Aug 27, 2026
The contact owns a 2007 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving, the airbag warning light remained illuminated. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V014000 (Air Bags); however, the contact stated that the vehicle experienced failure described in the recall. The local dealer was not contacted. The cause of the failure was not determined. The failure mileage was 82,000.
2020 KIA OPTIMA
Filed Aug 27, 2026
Snow White Pearl exterior paint is peeling off hood and sides of our 2020 Kia Optima. We paid an extra $495 for this paint.
2013 KIA OPTIMA
Filed Aug 27, 2026
Both front door lock actuators failed within a one month period. It is a safety issue because the actuator is failing in a way that can prevent the door from opening, closing, properly latching and locking. The vehicle is available for inspection. I have taken it to a mechanic to confirm the failure.