2017 KIA Optima Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
235
Complaints Reported
Complaints by Component
ENGINE
100 complaints
Engine is consuming a large amount of oil. Oil is gunking up spark plugs causing them to be replaced every 10-12 months. Have to add oil 3-5 times per month. This is our 2nd Kia optima and the first (2011) with seized engine in which Kia paid for replacement.
Oct 09, 2025
Engine completely shut down when driving it. Had it replaced among many other things then found out it was part of a class action lawsuit. I have spent two years trying to recoup the money I lost in repairs and the cash I paid for the car.
Sep 11, 2025
for the past year, I have been constantly replacing the spark plugs and ignition coil in my 2017 Kia optima. Recently I have had the valve cover gasket replaced. It is a constant oil consumption issue. I have received the P1326 diagnostic code. My dealership told me that the engine cannot be replaced unless it’s knocking. This is my only mode of transportation, and I would hate for me to be stranded because I’m waiting for the engine to knock for my engine to be replaced.
Sep 03, 2025
Car began hesitating and stalling, particularly from a stop. Engine light came on. Took the car to the KIA dealership for diagnosis. Was told by svc coordinator that the diagnosis indicated a bad knock sensor. The technician replaced the knock sensor, then test drove the car. It failed immediately. I was told that it would likely need engine replacement. After a few days, svc coordinator called and said that KIA recommended replacing the knock sensor (again) and perform a tuneup. They declined to replace the engine. The car runs in "limp home mode" (Kia's terminology), hesitates and stalls so as to make it very unsafe to operate. The engine on this car was replaced about two years ago for excessive oil consumption. There cannot be more than 30k miles on the new engine. KIA stated that there is a lifetime warranty on the replaced engines, but are apparently not going to honor the warranty. Car is serviced regularly and is in otherwise excellent condition.
Aug 21, 2025
My car is burning oil and oil is covering my spark plugs. Was mentioned about decarbonizing
Aug 19, 2025
+ 95 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
15 complaints
I previously submitted a report regarding engine failure in my Kia 2017, Optima. I’d like to update the complaint with new details. Upon mechanical inspection, it was confirmed that the engine bears Hyundai branding and has sustained internal damage including broken pistons and valve failure. These issues appear consistent with the known oil ring defect affecting Hyundai-manufactured engines used in Kia vehicles. Symptoms included: Engine knocking and rough idling Sudden loss of oil and reduced performance Full engine failure requiring replacement I believe my vehicle may have been missed in the recall or settlement programs and request this update be added to my case. I’m willing to provide repair estimates, diagnostic reports, and photos upon request. Thank you for investigating this issue further
Jul 20, 2025
For years there has been a problem with my vehicle after it rains. On the drivers side when turning the steering wheel there is a scraping noise. The dealership service always said they can’t hear anything or duplicate the problem. Now the issue has extended to the passenger side. After a heavy rain or going through the car wash water get in under the glovebox. My sunroof is fine and not clogged, the problem is something else. Water no matter the source should not be getting inside the car causing odor issues, interfering with the operation of turning / steering gears. This needs to be a recall to force Kia to acknowledge this well known problem from hundreds of online complaints regarding leaks.
Jun 16, 2025
I was driving and as I was going to make a left turn, the steering wheel forced itself to the right and locked. And the whole car completely shut down. So I had to slam on my brakes as they were also locking on me.
May 02, 2025
Unknown Oil consumption Spark plugs need replacement about every 500-1000 miles. Also needs oil every 500-1000
Apr 02, 2025
Sunroof shattered while driving on the highway. Nothing hit the vehicle. Sounded like a loud explosion.
Apr 05, 2024
+ 10 more complaints for this component
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
9 complaints
I own a 2017 Kia Optima. My vehicle was brought in for the tail light recall at Lupient Kia, but the dealership only replaced a bulb and refused to replace the harnesses. I was told by the service advisor (Brad Baranowski) that my tail lights had “nothing to do with the recall” and that I would need to pay $210 for a diagnosis, even though I am still experiencing the exact defect described in the recall (shortage/failure in the harness causing tail light malfunction and warning lights). This incomplete recall repair is a safety hazard my tail lights continue to fail, and I have received tickets because of it. I request that NHTSA investigate Kia’s failure to properly complete this recall. Lupient Kia 6030 N Green Bay Ave Glendale, WI 53209 Phone: (414) 351-3000
Sep 03, 2025
I drive with my lights on auto. Occasionally the lights go out for no apparent reason. Both inside and headlights. I then have to hold the high beam switch on until I can turn lights on and off or use directional. Sometimes using the directional will cause lights to go out as well. This can happen several days in a row or maybe once or twice a week. I have noticed a few times the box appearing in my dashboard saying lights were off. I had done nothing for them to go out. If a cop sees this happen I am sure to get pulled over. This has been going on for a year=3 trips to 2 different dealers. I brought my car to two different dealers and they both said without it happening when they have it they cannot do anything. I do not understand how a few years ago they fixed something incorrectly and I had to go back for a different part. Apparently this can't be done for this. So, I just risk my life every time I drive at night!!
Feb 23, 2024
I have my headlights on auto so they turn on but they turn on during the day and then off at night they turn on they have turn off when I'm diving at night on freeway and turn back on
Nov 28, 2023
I was driving at night and the headlights suddenly turned off for about 5 seconds and then it will come back on. Don't know whats going on with its headlight.
Sep 19, 2023
I have been driving at night going 70 mph on major rural freeway, as well as 55 mph on a two lane rural country road when the auto headights went completely dark, including all the interior lights. I could see nothing in the dark at those speeds ... not even the road. The first time this happened, I panicked because I could not see the road. I slammed on the brakes. I turned the auto light switch from auto to off and then turned to regular on. The headlights and interiors lights came back on. The second time this happened, I was going 70 mph on a rural highway. I immediately took my foot off the petal and turned the auto light to off and back on to regular on. I told the Kia Dealership and they said I would need to pay $138 to have them investigate the problem. The Service Center said they have heard of the problem before but were very vague. This is a MAJOR SECURITY TRANSPORTATION RISK.
May 25, 2022
+ 4 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
7 complaints
Vehicle experiences sudden and dangerous loss of power while driving, including hesitation during acceleration, consistent with connecting-rod bearing failure risk known in this model’s GDI engine. Dealer estimate found timing and oil-flow component failures connected to internal engine damage. Vehicle is unsafe to drive and stalls/lacks power unexpectedly, creating a high risk of crash.”
Dec 09, 2025
Engine is failing and using over 3 quarts of oil every 700-100 miles. Spark Plugs have become oil fouled and replaced all 4 spark plugs June 11th, 2024 and replaced all 4 spark plugs again January 12th, 2025. Today July 7th, 2025 Check Engine light came back on with Engine Misfire code P0303 Cylinder 3 Misfire, changing spark plugs again today. My safety is put at risk because oil consumption is a know issue with Kia GDI Engines. At any moment my car can run out of oil if it is not check every other week causing my engine to completely fail or a spark plug become Oil fouled and a spark plug needing to be replaced. In July of 2024 when this happened I was on the highway going 70 mph and my car just completed shut down. I could have been seriously injured had I not been able to pull over and only been 5 miles away from my home. I called Kia today to start an Oil Consumption test, stated I am the 2nd owner and while this is a known issue I will pay for and Upper Engine Clean which is only a band aid. This problem has been confirmed with Kia that the GDI Engines are consuming oil. I have also replaced all Engine Coolant, Coolant Temperature Senor, Thermostat as well as the PCV Valve.
Jul 07, 2025
Vehicle had oil change & filter service done on April 27, 2023 for the purpose of hoping the service would rectify an Oil Pressure Sensor Light illuminated on the dashboard. It did not. Sensor was subsequently replaced by the dealer. Vehicle taken into the dealership today (September 2, 2023) for Pennsylvania State Inspection and Emissions, along with another oil change service. Dealer technician in the course of performing the oil change, noticed after he put the new oil plug washer and bolt back in place, a minute crack in the oil pan, itself. He took a picture of it, that I will include with this complaint. Unfortunately, the definition of the photo leaves a bit to be desired. The dealer service writer suggested that too much force (pneumatic socket driver) was employed when tightening the oil pan bolt. I stopped at the location where the April 27, 2023 was done. The General Manager assured me they use a power torgue ratchet and not a pneumatic socket driver. He went under the car and detected a minute leak and said he would forward his report to their Quality Control Department. He asked me if I could bring the car back on Tuesday or Wednesday, September 5th or 6th for a re-inspection. I said I would do that. He did mention there is a possible Class Action Suit that might be filed over Kia/Hyundai Oil Pans and Bolts. It cites the use of poor materials used in the pan construction. Reports range from leaks to the oil bolt plug falling out due to expansion/contraction under duress. Don't know where or when any Class Action will manifest itself, but this oil change facility needs to step up and replace the oil pan, since they were the last ones to do a change before today.
Sep 02, 2023
Engine oil consumption, I have owned this car since new and almost every other week I need to add oil. My car has 85k miles on it , and has been service by dealer since new, just 2 months ago Pomona kia said my oil pan gasket had a small leak and replaced the gasket, today 3500 miles after the gasket replacement my car needed 3 quarts of oil. I'm not a mechanic but I know my car should not go trough so much oil. Someone please help.
Jan 17, 2023
I was driving on the highway when my check engine light came on flashing the car jersey almost to a stop and I had to pull over. I cut the car off and sat then turned it back on. The check engine light was still flashing and I put my flashers on and was unable to go over 60 mph. I drove slowly to an autozone and a code was pulled p1326. I looked it up and it undeliverable due to the knock sensor issue.
Jun 02, 2022
+ 2 more complaints for this component
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
7 complaints
I own a 2017 Kia Optima with a major internal engine defect. Starting shortly after purchase, the car lost power and consumed fuel unusually quickly. Over time, the engine began burning excessive oil and now produces a loud knocking sound (bearing knock), indicating internal bearing failure. These symptoms are consistent with known Kia engine defects (bearing wear / piston ring failure). The defect is a serious safety concern: because of weak bearings and high oil consumption, the engine could stall, seize, or catch fire. The dealership has refused to repair or replace the engine. I am reporting this as a safety defect and request NHTSA investigation.
Nov 16, 2025
I purchased the 2017 Optima Hybrid from Huntington Beach Hyundai on [XXX]. I made sure to double check with the dealer if the engine and hybrid battery were in good condition, in which the salesman reassured me everything is good. The car was driving okay for a while, and I had oil change and tires/alignment changed recently. Just barely 4 months in after I owned the car, the incident happened on the night of [XXX]. I was driving on the highway near the Getty going roughly 70 mph up the mountain roads while all of a sudden the "check hybrid system" warning came on in the car. The car immediately went into limp mode, and I did everything I could to slow the car to a complete stop, and stop on the freeway shoulder safely. It was a traumatizing experience to me, as this is a major safety issue with the vehicle, and other cars were travelling really fast in LA mountain areas. I had the car towed to a auto repair shop the next day, the mechanics did a deep inspection and informed me the hybrid inverter has failed. I paid $2,177 to replace the hybrid inverter with the mechanic. The mechanic also informed me while they were test driving they heard a knocking sound from the engine. I did a look up and found out there is a class settlement and safety campaigns on the engine for 2017 Optima Hybrid due to the faulty factory rod bearings, and the 150K miles extended warranty from Kia should apply to replace my faulty engine free of charge. I will be getting my car towed to Car Pros Kia in Huntington Beach on October 15th, 2025, and request the dealer to replace my engine per Kia's extended warranty. I am filing the complaint because the car is having problems after problems in barely 4 months of ownership, in which I believe I have purchased a lemon, or Huntington Beach Hyundai knowingly hid the facts the components were faulty. I have also filed a case with Kia corporate. Attached is the repair invoice for the hybrid inverter. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Oct 15, 2025
A auto repair shop said my Kia Optima has a bad knock sensor which is a common problem with those cars. My safety and others was put at great risk when I suddenly lost power on the freeway Problem was confirmed at an independent service center Has not yet been inspected by manufacturer Warning message came up at the same time as losing power
Nov 13, 2024
ON [XXX], AROUND 11:30 A.M., I WAS DRIVING [XXX] ON [XXX], GOING ABOUT 78 MPH, JUST PASSED [XXX], WHEN THE LIGHTS ON THE DASH LIT UP, SMOKE STARTED COMING FROM THE BACK OF THE CAR, THEN THERE WAS SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD THEN SMOKE STARTED COMING FROM THE A/C VENTS. THERE WAS A FULL FLEDGE FIRE UNDER MY HOOD. THE GUY DRIVING NEXT TO ME, KINDA GESTURED FOR ME TO PULL OVER, ALTHOUGH I WAS ALREADY THINKING I NEEDED TO PULL OVER, THE SHOCK OF WHAT WAS HAPPENING, I LOST MY TRAIN OF THOUGHT. I PULLED OVER AND SO DID THAT GUY, HE HAD A FIRE EXTINGUISHER AND TRIED TO PUT OUT THE FIRE BUT TO NO AVAIL. 5 MINS AFTER I GOT OUT, THE ENTIRE CAR WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. IT WAS VERY SCARY AND I AM THANKFUL FOR THAT GUY, BECAUSE I FROZE FOR A MINUTE AND COULDN'T THINK OF WHAT TO DO, I PULLED OVER JUST IN TIME. THE FIRE DEPT WAS CALLED AND IT TOOK THEM AWHILE TO PUT THE FIRE OUT, THE CAR WAS BURNT TO A CRISP, A 100% LOSS. A POLICE OFFICER TOOK MY NAME & PHONE NUMBER AND ARRANGED FOR A TOW TRUCK. I HAD TO ARRANGE FOR SOMEONE TO PICK ME UP FROM THE SIDE OF INTERSTATE I [XXX] AND HAD TO CALL OFF WORK. THE CAR WAS TOWED BY PROFESSIONAL TOWING TAMPA LOCATED - PHONE# 813-242-0610 EXT. 5 EMAIL - [email protected] | WEBSITE - www.professionaltowingtampa.com I SPOKE TO SOMEONE AT THE TOW YARD AND THEY TOLD ME TO BRING THEM THE TITLE TO THE CAR THE NEXT DAY AND SUGGESTED I PAY THE TOWING FEE RIGHT AWAY BEING THAT THE TOTAL AMOUNT DUE INCREASES EVERY DAY. ON [XXX], I BROUGHT THEM THE TITLE TO THE CAR AND PAID THE, I BELIEVE, $285 TOWING & STORAGE FEE. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Apr 04, 2024
Every time after I get an oil change I’m constantly having to put oil in it because it goes dry every 2 days and my check engine light stays on before and after oil change, randomly shaking soon as I turn the car on then the oil light comes on every time I go over a speed bump! The car slams on breaks when it wants and has even did it when in fast traffic on the highway.
Feb 19, 2024
+ 2 more complaints for this component
STEERING
6 complaints
Randomly when turning, my steering will jolt in the opposite direction and lose power steering. The red power steering light does come on at this moment where I have to pull over, turn the car off, and restart and the symptoms clear itself up. In addition, there is there is, randomly, grinding noises (and I can feel it in the steering) when turning. When this occurs, relocating the steering column by changing the position (via tilt and telescopic) seems to help clear it up for awhile. I have almost jolted to oncoming traffic when turning and a few instances. I have had it serviced to check steering points at tires, axel, cv joints, and my mechanics can't seem to find the fault there. Even after doing alignments, it helped for a little bit but the same problems came back. They believe it to be a steering column issue. They believe that it is getting caught when turning and causing the issues. This has been occurring for about 6-8 months now. The power steering losing power happens maybe once or twice a week to once every two weeks. The grinding and vibration in the steering column while turning happens a few times a week to maybe just once a week. Its occurrence worsens when it rains. I am reporting this because I have read other reports of people have the same experience as myself.
Jun 03, 2025
Failure of Flexible Steering Coupler, part of the Motor Driven Power Steering. This flexible coupler deteriorated noticeably over about 6 months time. Currently steering is very erratic with crunching sounds when turning wheel. This is a serious safety concern. I had the steering and suspension inspected at an official PA state inspection station (annual requirement) and was assured that the mechanical under car parts are all good. HAs never needed any repairs in this area, not even a wheel alignment. I am the original owner and the vehicle has been well maintained. Vehicle currently has 141,000 miles, mostly highway driving. KIA advises that there is no recall and no warranty repair available. I believe this is a design defect and safety issue.
Apr 23, 2025
Car engine stuttered when turned on, then after a moment smoothed out . I noticed some looseness in response in the steering wheel while driving forward, after a short period of time driving the antiskid symbol and the EPS symbol came on and I lost power steering. I turned off the car and turned it back on . The emergency symbols were gone and the power steering was OK. I headed back home and the symbols came back on and lost power steering again after driving about 3 blocks. I repeated turning car off and on to get home.
Aug 30, 2024
I am writing to bring a critical safety concern to your attention regarding my 2017 Kia Optima LX. The steering wheel of my vehicle frequently loses power, necessitating a restart of the engine for it to function properly again. This issue occurs randomly, but consistently takes place during steering wheel turns. On one alarming occasion while navigating a winding canyon road, the steering lost power, compelling me to slam on the brakes to prevent the car from falling off the cliff. Another incident occurred while making a right turn, resulting in me slamming on the brakes to avoid colliding with oncoming cars, narrowly escaping a potential rear-end accident. When the steering loses power, it remains functional but demands significant physical effort. Unfortunately, in attempting to steer during one episode, I strained a muscle, leading to a week of suffering. Despite the severity of this safety concern, Kia refuses to address the issue unless they can replicate it during a service visit. The problem occurs randomly, ranging from three times a day to once a month, with no warning signs prior to power loss. Kia has acknowledged this issue, evident in the warranty extension they provided up to 150k miles (attached). Regrettably, when I take the car to the dealership, they decline to address the problem due to an inability to replicate it. I believe this recurring steering malfunction poses a serious risk to my safety and the safety of others on the road. Your intervention in investigating this matter would be greatly appreciated to ensure the well-being of Kia Optima LX drivers. Attached, please find the mentioned warranty extension letter from Kia and an image displaying the MDPS warning light illuminated during instances when the steering lost power. Thank you for your prompt attention to this urgent matter. The contact stated Kia inspected the vehicle but was unable to replicate the issue during their inspection. However, they recommended replacing the assembly column as a potential solution, but the contact declined due to lack of assurance that the assembly column replacement would resolve the issue.
Mar 02, 2024
This has happened several times to me! While driving the steering wheel locks up and I have to coast to a stop to turn off the engine to reset the wheel. It has happened going 60mph down the hwy with my 3 young kids in the backseat. Going 30mph and I have almost hit two cars because of this. If I couldn't stop in time and time hwy wasn't a straight road we would've died. The part I need for the car has been on a back order for over a year. Kia said its not that big of an issue but my life and my kids life is at risk every day!!! Please help!!! This can't only be happening to my car!!!
Nov 10, 2023
+ 1 more complaint for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
6 complaints
Got a bsd and check hybrid system while driving.
Feb 14, 2024
Since this car did not come equipped with the Anti Theft Immobiliing System, due to recent events like increased theft of Kias and Hyundais ill equipped, an software upgrade was developed by each of the companies. When the dealer performed the anti theft software upgrade to my car, I was not informed at the time of the repair that this software upgrade disables the use of my Kia Remote Starting System. I was told Kia is working on a fix. So, in essence, we need a fix to fix a fix, simply because Kia and Hyundai decided in a cost saving measure to manufacture select years and models that are not equipped with the engine immobilizer key recognition system. I have heard talk of a possible recall for these affected vehicles by the NHTSA. Additionally, my car just manifested an issue today with an illuminated Oil Pressure Indicator Light on the instrument cluster. I have plenty of oil on the dipstick. Could this be more of the same with respect to previous years engine failures.
Apr 26, 2023
my fuse box melted , because of a burnt out fuse , too many electrical components made this fuse box melt and could have potentially started an electrical fire which could result in a crash and it could end up way worse maybe even death. I took my car to the service lane at kia and my service agent let me know that multiple cars are having this same problem where their fuse box burnt out . Its obviously a problem with a lot of kia optimas because i saw about 30 other kia optimas out in the parking lot waiting to be serviced and now ive been waiting two months for my car to get serviced.
Sep 19, 2022
THE WIRING IN THESE CARS ARE COATED WITH SOMETHING THAT SMALL RODENTS LIKE TO EAT THEY CHEW THROUGH THE TAPE THEN THEN WIRING. CAUSING HYBRID ENGINE NOT TO WORK LITES COME. LUCKLY NO FIRE YET. DEALER SAY SORRY THAT WILL BE $ THE CARS WIRING HYBRID PART . RODENTS LIKE TO EAT IT KIA HAS COATING ON IT THAT ATTRACTS THEM THEN IT COSTS YOU THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS TO FIX THEIR PROBLEM CAUSE IT'S NOT COVERED BY THEM. LUCKLY THE CAR DID NOT CAUGHT ON FIRE YET.
Feb 06, 2021
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE FROM A STOP, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. AS A RESULT, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO JEFF WYLER KIA (LOCATED AT 5815 DIXIE HWY, FAIRFIELD, OH 45014) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED, BUT THE TECHNICIAN COULD NOT FIND A FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THEY WOULD GET BACK WITH THE CONTACT. THE CONTACT HAD NOT HEARD BACK FROM THE MANUFACTURER. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 4,700.
Aug 24, 2017
+ 1 more complaint for this component
POWER TRAIN
6 complaints
Vehicles has most recently developed a "whizzing" type sound coming from the transmission just before it shifts into the next gear. It is most discernible when it shifts out of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gears. I don't profess to know if modern transmissions have "Bands" that are adjustable or not. Clearly, it is a sound that has never been present. There's been enough wrong with this Kia, so why not transmission issues as well. I was at my dealer today for PA State Inspection & Emissions along with an oil change (a problem arose out of the oil change that I just sent into the NHTSA) and they have me coming in on September 12th for a diagnostic look.
Sep 02, 2023
On Friday 6/23/2023 on my way home from work, one of the clutches went out on my DCT Transmission without any warning. I was at a stop light in front of all of the cars in a busy section and wasn’t able to go. I was able to get it to a safer location, but new something was wrong with my transmission. My mechanic was able to tell me that I’ve lost the 1st & 3rd gear. We drove around a few blocks with his diagnostics computer hooked into my car. My car isn’t safe to drive due to the faulty DCT Transmission Kia had installed into this model.
Jul 07, 2023
I was driving down hwy 60 in Lake Wales, Florida, passing a car at 70 mph. While passing, all of the alerts and indicators came on my dash, and I lost the ability to accelerate. To get off the road without getting rear-ended, I drove off into the grass in the median and stopped on the paved crossover. When I stopped the car, it shook and the engine died. The "hybrid warning/turn engine off" light came on in the middle of the display, so I turned off the car. I waited a few minutes and turned the car back on, no alerts were showing, but when I shifted into drive, the hybrid warning came back on, and all the lights/alerts on the dash were lit. The car had to be towed to the dealership. On Tuesday, Feb. 15, the dealership told me they performed a software update and the car was running again, but they wanted to keep it another night. On Wed., Feb. 16, the dealership called again to tell me the same situation that occurred on 2/14 happened again. They told me the codes that were given were related to the transmission. They said the transmission had to be replaced. The car is 5 years old. I asked about the transmission control module, and they said the entire transmission had to be replaced in order to replace the TCM. I took the car in after a recall notice was received in January 2022. I was told the recall only required an inspection, so there was no software update at that time. The tech told me that the original software update was done in April 2021. We received a 2nd recall notice this week saying the prior software update had an error and needed to be updated. The tech told me this is the update they did on 2/15. The dealership is telling me I need a new transmission. I'm having a hard time trusting anyone at the dealership.
Feb 18, 2022
KIA OPTIMA 2017 HYBRID. 26K MILEAGE AND AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION BECOME VERY CLUNKY, CAR JERKS WHEN SHIFTING ON ANY GEAR. NOT STABLE DRIVING, STRANGE NOISES UNDER THE HOOD ESPECIALLY WHEN VEHICLE GOES UPHILL AND EVEN ON STRAIGHT ROAD CAR TWITCHES. NO OIL LEAKS FROM THE BOTTOM.
Apr 17, 2021
I BELIEVE THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE TRANSMISSION IN THIS CAR. IT IS AN LX WITH THE 2.4L ENGINE GDI. IT'S THE STANDARD ENGINE. THE TRANSMISSION SEEMED "OFF" AFTER A FIRMWARE UPDATE. PRIOR TO THIS, THE CAR REALLY PERFORMED AND ROLLED NICELY. BY THAT I MEAN, THERE WAS NO DETECTABLE DRAY WHEN TAKING MY FOOT OFF THE GAS. IN DRIVING THE CAR NOW, THE CAR JUST SEEMS TO LUG, AS IT TAKES MORE ACCELERATION TO GET THE CAR MOVING. THE TRANSMISSION "HANGS UP" AT AROUND 40MPH, WITH NO LOAD ON THE ENGINE. THE TACH AT 40MPH OR THEREABOUTS, READS AROUND 1900-2200RPMS. THIS IS FAR TOO HIGH IN MY OPINION, BEFORE I GO A LITTLE FASTER, AND THE TRANS FINALLY SHIFTS TO THE NEXT GEAR, LOWERING THE RPMS TO WHERE THEY SHOULD BE AT 40 MPH. GAS MILEAGE IS DOWN APPROX. 20% TO WHAT I ENJOYED BEFORE THIS STARTED. I DID HAVE THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALER, FRED BEANS IN LANGHORNE PA, FOR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE AND MENTIONED IT TO THE SERVICE WRITER. OF COURSE (AND I MEAN THIS WITH ALL DUE RESPECT), THEY COULDN'T DUPLICATE THE EXPERIENCE. WHAT THE DID DO WAS WIPE THE TRANSMISSION MEMORY CLEAN AND WE STARTED FRESH. THE IDEA BEING THE TRANSMISSION WOULD RELEARN MY DRIVING HABITS. I DON'T PROFESS TO KNOW EVERYTHING ABOUT A TRANS LEARNING HABITS, BUT I DO KNOW THAT THE TRANS SHOULD NOT HANG UP BETWEEN GEARS FOR ANY REASON. DUE TO RETURN TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR REGULAR SERVICE. WILL MENTION IT AGAIN. OUT OF REGULAR WARRANTY BUT I DID PURCHASE AN EXTENDED WARRANTY.
Mar 02, 2021
+ 1 more complaint for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
4 complaints
--- **Summary of Complaint – 2017 Kia Optima** My 2017 Kia Optima (VIN: [XXX] ) experienced sudden engine failure due to a damaged piston. There were no warning signs—no knock codes or dashboard alerts—prior to the malfunction. Despite regular maintenance and timely oil changes, Kia denied warranty coverage, leaving me with significant repair costs. This issue appears consistent with reported engine problems in similar Kia models and could represent a broader manufacturing defect. I'm submitting this report in hopes of prompting an investigation into a potential safety hazard. A recall may be necessary to prevent similar failures and protect INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Aug 04, 2025
Car went into limp mode (three times since July 2022) and slowed down on the freeway from 70mph to 20mph without prior warning, putting my life at risk. Dash reads “check hybrid system”. Kia’s had my car for a week without allowing me a loaner or answers.
Mar 21, 2023
During the week of November 14th, 2021, I noticed my vehicle begin to noticeably vibrate and generate an unfamiliar sound near the engine compartment. The vibration and sound was accompanied by a "check engine" light illuminating. I immediately scheduled an appointment at my local dealership and was provided a date of November 29, 2021. On November 29, 2021, I dropped off my vehicle at the dealership and learned of NHTSA Recall Number "21V844." The service representative and his technician believe the vibration and sound are a result of the recall. To date, my vehicle remains at the dealership and the matter is unresolved. The service representative has advised me that Techline / KIA Corp. is determining whether my vehicle's engine issue is due to the recall or not. It has been two weeks that the vehicle has been at the service center. As per the recall notice I received in the mail, the inspection for the recall should have been completed in a matter of hours. I reasonably believe that Techline / KIA Corp is searching for an excuse to not remedy my vehicle's engine issue, and are jeopardizing the safety of myself and my family. I have a newborn and kindergartener that I have in the car daily and am concern for their safety if the engine issue does not get fixed. I am a military veteran and active police officer. I appreciate any assistance you may provide and thank you in advance.
Dec 13, 2021
I PURCHASED A NEW 2017 KIA OPTIMA IN FEB OF 2017 AND ON JULY 17 2018 I WAS DRIVING DOWN A STREET WHEN I SLOWED DOWN TO A STOP SO A CAR CAN BACK OUT WHEN THE CAR VIOLENTLY SHOOK THEN SHUT OFF. I TRIED MULTIPLE TIMES TO RESTART IT BUT JUST SHOOK AGAIN AND TURNED OFF. MY HUSBAND PUSHED ME TO THE SIDEWALK WHERE I TRIED AGAIN TO RESTART IT AND IT FINALLY STAYED ON WITH NO LIGHTS SHOWING UP. TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP ON A TOW TRUCK AND WAS TOLD NOTHING IS WRONG WITH IT. THEY KEPT THE CAR FOR A DAY AND SAID I CAN PICK IT UP IT'S PERFECTLY FINE. I HAVE A CASE OPEN WITH KIA AND THEY TOLD ME NOT TO RESTART THE CAR BECAUSE THE CODES WILL ERASE AND THAT'S WHAT HAPPENED. I TOLD KIA I WILL NOT BE DRIVING THE CAR BECAUSE IT'S NOT SAFE AND I HAVE CHILDREN. THEIR RESPONSE IS NOTHING IS WRONG WITH IT SO I DECIDED TO DRIVE IT ONLY TO TAKE MY HUSBAND TO WORK FOR THE NEXT 2 WEEKS AND ON AUGUST 13 2018 WHILE I WAS DRIVING THE LIGHTS CAME ON AND I COULD NOT GET ANY GAS SO I WAS JUST COASTING. LUCKILY I WAS ABLE TO PULL INTO A PARKING LOT AND PARK BUT I ALSO TOOK A VIDEO OF WHAT LIGHTS CAME ON AS WELL AS WHEN THE TOW TRUCK CAME SHOWING THE LIGHTS WERE STILL ON EVEN THOUGH I DID NOT COMPLETELY TURN THE CAR ON. I HAVE A RENTAL FOR 2 WEEKS AND A FIELD TECH IS GOING TO DRIVE MY CAR FOR 1 WEEK TO TRY AND DUPLICATE THE ISSUE EVEN THOUGH IT ALREADY HAPPEN FOR THE SECOND TIME. NOW I'M WAITING ON WHAT THE ISSUE IS.
Aug 14, 2018
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE
4 complaints
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact reset the check engine warning light however, the light became illuminated again. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the contact was informed that the engine oil was low and needed to be topped off. Additionally, the dealer offered to perform an oil consumption test. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that he had researched online and related the failure to an engine design flaw. The contact requested that the dealer attempt to repair the engine and was refused. The contact was advised by the dealer to drive the vehicle until the engine failed and then he would be placed under consideration for a manufacturer engine replacement program. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 76,000.
Oct 31, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated that the oil warning light was frequently illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic and was informed that oil had leaked into an engine cylinder. The mechanic informed the contact that a Technical Service Bulletin had been placed on her vehicle in relation to the failure and referred the contact to a dealer for assistance. The contact called Pride Kia of Lynn and Herb Chambers Kia of Burlington and was informed that the vehicle was out of warranty. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 122,000.
Oct 13, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, black smoke was coming from the exhaust pipe and the vehicle was jerking. The oil warning light was illuminated. The contact added engine oil. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where oil was found on unknown sensors and on the coils. The contact was informed that an oil change was needed, and the filter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the contact stated that after starting the vehicle, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced; however, the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was 110,569.
Mar 09, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated that oil was leaking from the vehicle onto the driveway of her home. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the mechanic stated that the spark plugs needed to be replaced. The sparks plugs were replaced but the failure persisted. On another occasion, the contact noticed that oil was leaking from under the vehicle again, and the vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that there was oil cylinder #3 spark plug. The spark plug and PCV valve was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not replaced. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the contact would receive a call back. The failure mileage was 93,226.
Oct 26, 2022
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
4 complaints
Kia fuel rail spurting gas out. Kia dealer said it’s not under warranty and no recalls. Gas leak is so bad car can’t be driven.
Oct 10, 2023
Oil burning faster. After an oil change I go about a month before I have to add more oil again. There is no leak as every time I get an oil change I make sure they check. But around the month period I have to check to see if I am low on oil again. Very frustrating and starting to become costly
Sep 27, 2023
THE CAR STALLS AND HESITATES AT TIMES WHEN THE ACCELERATOR IS PRESSED
Oct 01, 2020
THE CAR STALLS AND INTERSECTIONS INTERMITTENTLY. YOU HAVE TO TURN THE KEY OFF AND TURN IT BACK ON SO FAR IT HAS STARTED EVERY TIME.
Dec 19, 2019
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
3 complaints
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated that upon routine maintenance with a local independent mechanic, it was discovered that the vehicle had low engine oil. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was determined that an oil consumption test was needed to determine any failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that engine oil was added almost every 2 weeks. The message to "Contact the Dealer" was displayed. The vehicle was towed to Team Kia of El Cajon (541 N Johnson Ave, El Cajon, CA 92020), where it was determined that there was engine oil leaking onto the catalytic converter. The contact related the failure to a Kia recall related to a connecting rod bearing failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,400.
Oct 28, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated she had noticed that the vehicle required more oil between oil changes. Additionally, the contact had noticed that oil was leaking underneath the vehicle. The contact stated that the low oil pressure warning light would only illuminate upon depressing the brake pedal. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where no oil leak was found, and the contact was advised to constantly check the engine oil level. The contact stated that upon checking the oil level recently, five quarts of oil needed to be added to the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 133,000.
Aug 05, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving approximately 75 MPH, the contact attempted to accelerate to change lanes however, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact stated that the vehicle started to decelerate and sputtered as if the vehicle before the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the roadway and towed to the dealer. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the entire engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle had been consuming approximately one quart of engine oil every 500 miles. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 167,000.
May 08, 2023
SERVICE BRAKES
3 complaints
Warning lights displayed for ABS and ESC systems. Had Autozone pull the OBD2 codes which indicated the left rear wheel speed sensor failed resulting in failed/disabled ABS and ESC systems. I replaced the bad rear wheel hub/sensor which corrected the problem. I no longer have that failed component. A few months later, warning lights came on again. I again had the codes pulled by Autozone and this time it was the right rear wheel speed sensor. I have the new part but have not yet replaced it so I could keep the defective part for the right wheel. The first one failed in April 2024 and the second in November 2024. This seems to be a bad design with two of the same parts failing in the same timeframe affecting two main safety features of the vehicle
Jun 27, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, while slowing down the brake pedal was depressed and would engage however, after several seconds the brake would disengage and the vehicle would roll forward. The contact was able to safely stop and noticed a knocking sound coming from the rear area in the trunk as the vehicle came to a stop. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed however, the mechanic found no failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 83,000.
Feb 24, 2022
When driving above 30 mph if you apply light brake pressure to the brake pedal and then allow the vehicle to slow down without applying additional force the ABS will activate when the speed drops to around 20 miles per hour. At that point if you release the brake and reapply them they will operate without issue. If on the other hand you hold the force or apply more force the ABS activation continues the brake pedal gets hard and it feels lie the vehicle is not going to stop. As an employee of Kia America I cannot provide any documentation. That said you should have full access to all the details via the TREAD ACT and I would encourage you to investigate it. Please also note I was able to duplicate this issue in 3 other like vehicles and feel this issue could hurt or kill someone.
Sep 29, 2021
SEAT BELTS
3 complaints
My driver's seat seatbelt has completely locked up rendering unusable. It neither retracts or goes out further so it is stuck in a state where it cannot buckle with a person in it. My car is only 7 years old and I have only had it for4 years.
Feb 02, 2025
Drivers side seat belt will not click into latch
Oct 08, 2024
SEAT BELT WILL NOT SNAP CORRECTLY IT KEEPS UNSNAPPING UNTIL YOU PUSH DOWN ON RELEASE BUTTON AND THEN IT STAYS SNAPPED.
Jan 14, 2019
STRUCTURE
3 complaints
On 11/02/2023 I mailed in the KIA request for Reimbursement form. I included a reciept from KIA of Fargo, ND for the Trunk latch assembly. My trunk latch failed in August of 2022, I had to leave Fargo so I cancelled my service appointment. Then purchased the trunk latch assembly and installed it myself. I included labor of $180 and part cost of $62.68. KIA sent an aknowlegment of the reimbursement form on 02/22/2024 they were reviewing the form. As of today I have not yet received the reimbursement. KIA is not following through in a timely manner on this trunk latch recall.
Jun 19, 2024
The trunk won't close.
Oct 20, 2021
THE SHARK FIN ANTENNA COVER JUST BROKE OFF WHILE I WAS DRIVING
Mar 27, 2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
3 complaints
Headlights will randomly turn on and off throughout while driving. Radio has the same issue
Sep 28, 2023
1. Headlights randomly fail and yes. 2. Headlights will completely go out at night while driving. Not being able to see in the dark while driving can be fatal to me, my family, and any nearby innocent bystanders. 3. No. 4. No. 5. No warnings at all and it started almost 2 weeks ago.
Jul 15, 2022
The vehicle automatically turns the headlights off automatically (at night). While driving and not touching the multi function switch, the vehicle indicate that the headlights were switched manually to the "off" position from the "auto" position on the multi function switch. This happens randomly at random intervals and most noticeable at night when the car is driving and the lights are turned off and is not reproducible on demand. The safety of both myself and the other vehicles around me are put at risk if my headlights cannot turn on or turn off by themselves at night while operating the vehicle. I went to the dealer, and they told me that even though the car is under warranty since the problem cannot be reproduced I would need to pay a $175 diagnostic fee, the dealer told me that Kia will charge them if they can't prove that the multi functional switch is defective. I contacted Kia customer service, they opened a claim, but did confirm that if the issue is not re-creatable on demand the dealer can charge a fee and there isn't anything they can do to waive that. They told me since it's a safety issue they could escalate the issue, so I agreed to escalate it. Then I never heard back after that. The lcd in the control cluster indicated that the lights were turned off (even though the switch was physically not touched and remained in the "auto" position for the lights). Other Kia Optima owners are experiencing this issue as seen here: https://www.optimaforums.com/threads/headlights-turn-off-automatically-at-night.169987/
Dec 06, 2021
VISIBILITY/WIPER
3 complaints
I CAN NOT SEE THE CAR ON THE RIGHT IF I WANT TO SWITCH LANES ON A HIGH WAY. IN TRAFFIC I GET NOT ZOOM IN AND OUT OF LANES, EITHER I (THE DRIVER) OR THE PASSENGER NEEDS TO TURN THEIR HEAD IN ORDER FOR THE DRIVER TO TURN RIGHT. I TRIED THE LITTLE MIRRORS THAT YOU STICK ON BUT THAT DID NOT WORK. WHEN I TEST DROVE IT, I DID NOT REALIZED IT FOR I DROVE IT REGULAR ROADS
Apr 02, 2020
THE REAR VIEW MIRROR IS SITUATED TOO LOW, CREATING A LARGE BLIND SPOT IN THE CENTER OF THE WINDSHIELD. OFTEN, AT A 4-WAY STOP, THE CAR APPROACHING FROM THE RIGHT IS COMPLETELY BLOCKED OUT. DRIVER IS FORCED TO CROUCH DOWN SO AS TO LOOK UNDER THE MIRROR IN MANY DRIVING SITUATIONS. THIS HAS NEARLY CAUSED AN ACCIDENT A NUMBER OF TIMES.
Oct 12, 2019
WAS DRIVING THROUGH A TUNNEL WHEN I HEARD A LOUD POP, AND THEN THE SOUNDS OF GLASS SHATTERING AND WIND. THE SUN ROOF OF MY CAR WAS COMPLETELY CRACKED. THE INTERIOR SUN SHADE WAS THE ONLY THING THAT PREVENTED ME FROM HAVING A GLASS SHOWER.
Aug 27, 2018
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
3 complaints
DRIVING ON THE EXPRESSWAY THE VEHICLE WAS SLOW TO ACCELERATE INTO TRAFFIC HAD TO PUSH THE GAS TO THE FLOOR TO GET VEHICLE TO MOVE ALMOST HIT IN THE REAR. CAME TO A STOP LIGHT ONCE GREEN PRESSED ON THE GAS THE CAR WENT TO 25MPH JERKED AND WOULD NOT ACCELERATE OVER 25MPH. SOMEONE CAN BEEN KILLED.
Oct 30, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE DID NOT FUNCTION WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE TOOK MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS TO BE OPERATED NORMALLY. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE RECURRED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. LUPIENT KIA OF BROOKLYN PARK (7911 LAKELAND AVE N, BROOKLYN PARK, MN) WAS CONTACTED, BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DIAGNOSED OR REPLICATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 500. *TT *TR
Jan 26, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH, THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO CHANGE LANES, BUT THE VEHICLE DID NOT ACCELERATE. IT TOOK APPROXIMATELY FOUR SECONDS FOR THE VEHICLE TO RESPOND. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED FIVE OTHER TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER (LUPIENT IMPORTS INC. IN BROOKLYN PARK, MINNESOTA), BUT THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 450.
Jul 12, 2017
ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
2 complaints
My vehicle is experiencing engine issues consistent with the known Theta II GDI engine defects — including rod bearing failure piston rings engine stalling, I understand that Kia has offered extended warranty coverage through the engine defect settlement, provided the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) update was installed before failure. I am unsure whether this update has been applied and would like to confirm my eligibility. I respectfully request: 1.Confirmation of KSDS update installation on my VIN 2.A review of my eligibility for engine inspection and coverage under the extended warranty 3.Assistance with coordinating service and coverage at my local dealership (LeBlanc Kia, New Iberia, LA) I am the second owner of this vehicle and want to ensure I am treated fairly under the known warranty extension guidelines. Thank you for your support. I look forward to your prompt response.
Jun 25, 2025
Engine needed to be replaced as part of the recall for knock, however they said because the repair was done on a subsequent work order and the first one was for a failed AEB module that none of the repairs are covered. I'm out over $13,000 for what should have been warrantied
Sep 21, 2023
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
2 complaints
There appears to be an issue with Kia USA regarding an oil switch fault that the company may be aware of but has not addressed through a service bulletin. We own a 2017 Kia Optima with a 2.4L engine and 84,000 miles that has recently started experiencing an intermittent oil pressure light. Thinking the issue was covered under warranty, I took the vehicle in for repair, only to receive a quote of $6,000. The faulty switch had pushed oil through the wiring harness, contaminating the powertrain control module and fuel injectors. I have found information indicating that Kia issued a service bulletin in April 2022 for the same switch used in the 2.4L issue affecting 2015-2018 Kia models with 3.3L engines. However, when I provided this information to the dealer, they insisted the switch in my Optima was different and not covered by the bulletin. I have repeatedly requested the part number for the faulty switch referenced in the bulletin, but have not received a response from the dealer or Kia corporate. The information I found on-line is that the switch in both motors are the same switch. I understand that if this issue is not addressed early, the repair cost can reach upwards of $7,500. If Kia had proactively notified 2.4L owners about the switch issue in 2022, my problem may have been caught and resolved before the extensive damage occurred. Furthermore, if the faulty switch was used across multiple Kia models during the same time frame, the company should have included those vehicles in the service bulletin. I am not concerned with getting my own Optima repaired, but I find it unacceptable for Kia to take advantage of customers in this manner. An $18 part failure should not result in such significant damage, and Kia's lack of transparency and action is disappointing. I hope that by sharing this experience, Kia will be compelled to address this issue and prevent further financial hardship for their customers.
Mar 21, 2025
WHILE I WAS DRIVING PROBABLY ABOUT 45 MILES AN HOUR OR SO MY CAR STARTED TO SHAKE REALLY HARD THEN IT SHUT OFF. ONCE IT SHUT OFF THE LOW OIL LIGHT CAME ON ALONG WITH THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND THE LOW BATTERY LIGHT AS WELL. AFTER THAT THE CAR WENT COMPLETELY DEAD. I TURNED THE KEY TO THE OFF POSITION AND THEN TIREDNESS IT BACK ON WITH WITH NO PROBLEM. FOR MY CAR TO SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVING ON A MAJOR STREET CAUSES MAJOR CONCERNS. ONE WHAT IF IT HAPPENS AGAIN AND I GET IN AN ACCIDENT OR CAUSE AN ACCIDENT.
Jun 17, 2019
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
The KSDS in my engine is causing engine failure due to the dealership failing to fix the problem when I first experienced stalling, lagging and misfiring of my vehicle, which would often make it shake and I would have to turn the car off and reignite it, sometimes more than once. My safety is at risk when driving, because the vehicle will lag while trying to accelerate in traffic. My mechanic researched the issue and found the recall and Kia said they fixed it when it was issued and they didn’t. My CHECK ENGINE light is flashing now and it continues to lose power. I have contacted Kia about the issue and I’m waiting on a response.
Aug 11, 2024
i had engine light a code P200a on my 2017 kia optima ex 17,000 miles i have like a hesitation when accelerating, sometimes just sitting idling or sitting at a light feels like going to stall. i had some one check it they told me to bring it to the dealer because they looked it up and said it is like a recall on 2016 kia optimas there is a Technical Service Bulletin on the same condition that i have i went to the dealer and they said thats what it was the (VCMA)variable charge motion actuator on the intake manifold..i dont drive to much with the car i looked on line and a bunch of people say they had the same problem with my year and older models.thank you.ihad it fixed at the dealer on 8-30-23 case #15777155
Sep 12, 2023
AIR BAGS
2 complaints
The contact owned a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH, another vehicle crashed on the front passenger side tire of the vehicle. Due to the impact, the vehicle was sent over four lanes of traffic and jumped over a curb. The contact stated that the front air bag was deployed only after the vehicle jumped the curb; no other air bags in the vehicle were deployed despite the contact's children in the vehicle's rear seat. The contact stated that metal shrapnel was released upon deployment of the air bag. The contact used her left arm to block the fragments from hitting her face. The contact and her children were all transported to the hospital by ambulance. The contact sustained multiple cuts to her jaw, lips and face. In addition, the contact sustained multiple lacerations and bruises to her left arm and the contact's right arm was broken; the contact also sustained eight cracked teeth. The contact stated that all four children located in the rear seats suffered minor bruising with one child suffering a seat belt laceration on their right shoulder. A police report was filed. The children were discharged from the hospital on the same day; however, the contact stayed in the hospital for a week due to her injuries. The other driver's air bags were deployed upon impact and no injuries were reported. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it remained in their possession pending. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle had been deemed a total loss. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.
Apr 12, 2024
WHEN DRIVING THE 2017 KIA OPTIMA LX THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG INDICATOR LIGHT WILL START FLASHING INDICATING THAT THE PASSENGER AIR BAGS ARE ENGAGED ALTHOUGH THERE IS NO ONE SITTING IN THE SEAT. THE INDICATOR LIGHT FLASHES CONTINUOUSLY FOR APPROXIMATELY ONE MINUTE THEN TURNS OFF. THIS INDICATION CAN HAPPEN AT DIFFERENT STAGES IN THE DRIVING PROCESS FROM BEING PARKED TO DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY.
Aug 09, 2018
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
2 complaints
Twice while driving in rain my front end collision warning has taken control from me and slammed on the brakes bringing my car to a full stop. There was no vehicle or object in front of me either time. The second time I narrowly missed being rear ended.
Sep 27, 2023
Cruise control does not maintain a steady speed and constantly fluctuates 10+- miles an hour! The dealer refuses to fix and says they cannot reproduce the symptom. I used a tracker and saw the dealer drive it around the block, never attempting to put it on the freeway.
Mar 14, 2023
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
2 complaints
Hello I've been having my car for a year I told the dealership the problem but it seem as they don't want to fix it My car wouldn't go over 60miles and also my engine just locked up this doesn't make sense when they know these problems are a recall on this type of vehicles
Sep 12, 2022
This has happened 3 times driving car almost comes to a complete stop. Acceleration dropped down to 20 MPH. Was told it was a knock sensor replace in March in May did it again . Replaced it against the very next day it did it again. Went online and said it was a recall but nothing is showing up here . I will contact Kia in the morning we could have been killed this happened in the expressway
Jun 05, 2022
STEERING,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
1 complaint
Oil is burning too fast... Car has had an issue like this in the past and the problem resulted in a blown engine... Re-call was found by dealer and honored and endinge re-placed.. Car is now expierenceing this problem again... Second, steering wheel is locking when turnning fully left... Third, car smells extremely strong like gasoline when car is warming up...
Oct 01, 2025
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
While driving my 2017 Kia Optima (Theta II engine) at approximately 115,900 miles, I suddenly experienced engine failure. The vehicle began to stall and produced a burning smell shortly before the engine seized completely. I had the car towed to a Kia dealership, which confirmed an internal engine failure and noted that there were no signs of external oil leaks or neglect. The failure occurred only 4,500 miles after my last oil change, which was documented and professionally completed. The Kia technician mentioned verbally that this was due to excessive oil consumption and burning — an issue I later found to be widely reported in other Kia vehicles using this engine type. The estimated repair cost is over $14,000, which is more than the value of the vehicle. Despite my warranty being expired, this type of failure appears consistent with known manufacturing defects. I am reporting this for public safety and accountability. The vehicle failed without warning and could have caused a dangerous situation on the road.
Jul 30, 2025
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
1 complaint
Excessive oil consumption started at 61,000 miles, causing engine misfires and dangerous power loss on the road. Engine codes 1326 and P0304 were frequent. Despite numerous services, including sensor replacements, spark plugs and oil top-offs, the problem worsened. At 97,769 miles, the dealer said a full engine replacement is needed along with other pertinent repairs related to the engine are needed. The situation was life-threatening each time as they occurred while driving and I now no working vehicle after my husband's recent death. Kia dealerships acknowledged the defect but refused to replace the engine and advised that Kia Corporate was refusing, although no claim information was ever provided that they indeed contacted the corporate office. I am seeking NHTSA support in holding Kia accountable.
Jul 30, 2025
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated that the low battery warning light was illuminated, and the message stating an electrical failure was occurring was displayed on the infotainment center. The battery was tested and found to be non-defective. The vehicle was taken to AutoZone, where a mechanic diagnosed and determined that the alternator had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact found information of NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V161000 (Hybrid Propulsion System) and linked the recall to the failure. The dealer was contacted and informed of the failure. The dealer confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Jun 25, 2025
STEERING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
The power steering stopped working and the car became hard to turn because of it. The power steering light (red color with steering wheel and exclamation point to the right of it) came on also.
May 19, 2025
SEAT BELTS,ENGINE
1 complaint
Engine is burning 2 QT of oil every month and burning it in under 1000 miles. Kia dealership says it's a common issue but can't help me until the engine seizes up. The car has less than 85k miles on it. How can this be a common issue but they can't fix it till the engine dies? What if the engine dies out of warranty? Then I'm out 12k for a new engine that will die in 80k miles. This should be a recall.
Sep 18, 2024
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V594000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and determined that the next available appointment would be in February 2024. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that there were a lot of customers in front of him and the dealer would not be able to get to the vehicle until February 2024. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil and failed to start occasionally. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 126,000. Parts distribution disconnect
Oct 26, 2023
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
1 complaint
First I had an oil leak which I was advised to warm my car up to prevent from getting worse. At the time I was told it was minor. Then my oil light started coming up every 2 weeks and when checked there was no oil. Now 2 months later, my car has stopped and showed a blinking check engine light. When checked I was told a code of p1326 which is the knock sensor. I have only had my car 7 months and it’s been problem after problem. Not to mention only a month after buying it was stolen. Due to no immobilizer So I’m sure a lot of the issues are also a result of the dumb theif who decided to damage my car. Also my cruise control doesn’t work a lot of the time.
Sep 01, 2023
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the "Check High beam Assist System" and "Check Lane Departure System" messages were displayed. The Forward Collision Avoidance warning light and an unknown warning light were illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while starting the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the front view camera needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened; however, no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 39,715. The contact is requesting to withdraw the complaint.
Aug 25, 2023
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated that after driving, there was an abnormal fuel odor inside the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who informed the contact that the fuel pump assembly and fuel line needed to be replaced. The contact called the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 46,000.
Aug 15, 2023
STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
On 6 June 2022 I was driving Eastbound Interstate 80 passing Fairfield, CA. Traffic was moderate, average traffic speed 65. The Kia’s Adaptive Cruise was enabled and set to the maximum amount of safe distance. I recall the car directly in front of me changed lanes to pass a truck towing a trailer. I remember the Kia began to accelerate and I couldn’t turn the wheel. Next memory was opening my eyes to the dust smoke of deployed air bags. I lost consciousness likely due to the sudden impact and air bags deployed. I was taken to a Fairfield hospital by ambulance where I spent 4 days. A slurry of tests ruled out loss of consciousness as the cause. No stroke, heart attack or seizure occurred. I was treated for bruised ribs due to the airbag. No doubt to me that this collision could have been catastrophic to this driver and others driving nearby. Witness reported that I sped up and clipped the truck/trailer while attempting to pass. What I believe happened: 1) the Adaptive Cruise accelerated when it determined there was room but failed to see the trailer and 2) the steering was unresponsive when I attempted to avoid a collision. The reaction time between car accelerating and getting knocked out had to be a mere three or four seconds. The vehicle was totaled, The insurance company, Mercury Insurance, released the vehicle
Jul 24, 2023
SUSPENSION,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
My car is consuming major oil. I am having to put at minimum 3 to 4 quarts of oil every 3 days. I am having major loss of power. My car has oil fouled far too many spark plugs. In the last 3 months, I have had to replace the spark plugs three separate times. Within the last 3 weeks I have replaced the following: 1. Ignition Coils 2. Valve Cover Gasket 3. PCV Valve 4. 2 separate sets of spark plugs and 1 singular spark plug for Cylinder #4. My car is having a major oil consumption problem and the performance has been severely affected.
Mar 01, 2023
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
My car was stolen on February 14, 2023 at 7pm.
Feb 15, 2023
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
Forward collision avoidance system activated with no vehicle stopped in front. Brakes locked up multiple times and then unlocked.
Nov 13, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
1 complaint
For the past 5-6 months I’m have ongoing issues with my engine and excessive oil consumption. I’ve completed the three oil consumption test per 1000 miles. On the last test(3rd check), I was told I passed and nothing further was needed. Approximately 1 month after that my engine light illuminated and my car violently shook upon acceleration and while sitting idle. Was informed it was my spark plugs and electric coil… oh and a routine oil change, which I paid to have repaired at approx. $650 this was in late August/Early September. Now here we are in late October and my oil lamp is on yet again! My car does not achieve speeds no higher than 50 mph. I’ve been to the dealership 7 times since April 2022. There’s an expense with owning cars but this is ridiculous. I’m currently a few hundred miles shy of 80,000 miles
Oct 23, 2022
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
I was driving with an SUV in front of me at 18-wheeler in front of them. This is on a road where the speed limit is 65 however there's a section on 301 where there's a traffic light. All three vehicles came to a slow normal stop and the adaptive cruise control was doing a good job of slowing the vehicle down without my input. But the SUV when we were at about stopping speed but had not yet come to a complete stop, the SUV switched to the left lane. At which point I was maybe 20 ft behind the 18-wheeler and all of a sudden the car is adaptive cruise control tried to accelerate the car back up to the setting of 65. It didn't register the 18-wheeler at all It just registered that the car in front of me had cleared the space and if I had not been paying attention and immediately applied the brakes to stop the car manually It absolutely would have accelerated directly into the back of the 18-wheeler. I was maybe 5 ft and it was still accelerating when I slammed on the brakes. I've been able to since reproduce the effects, it doesn't register 18 wheelers correctly in this specific situation as vehicles. I've even had the camera recalibrated in between tests. I have everything on video but unfortunately do not have access to the car's computer logs. I would be willing to send in my ECU for whatever is needed to identify this further.
Sep 23, 2022
STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
There is a viral trend spreading throughout the country that shows how easy it is to steal a key-start Kia or Hyundai. The perpetrators bashed my back rear window, dislodged the undercarriage of the steering wheel, and used something as simple as a USB cable to turn a knob and start the ignition. My safety was put at risk as well as others because these people that stole my car clearly do not care about their own life or others. No one steals a car for a positive reason. They drove it recklessly and abandoned it without concern for anyone. Kia and Hyundai need to address this issue or more and more of them are going to continue to get stolen and people are going to continue to get hurt, both physically and financially.
Jul 13, 2022
SEAT BELTS,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
Bought this car 10 months ago with 16000 miles on it my enjine light is on car wouldnt start its 2017 kia optima also my passenger seatbelt sign on my dash keeps going off and nobody is in the seat so i have to fasten the seat belt just so it will stop dinging while i drive my front passenger side brakes sound like they are scrubbing when u stop i had mechanic look at it he said he dont see nothing he resurfaced my rotors and its still making that noise
Jul 13, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,ENGINE
1 complaint
March 2022, (approximately 72,000 miles)while driving to work my car shut off. I was in drive at a red light. Noticeable decreased acceleration and vibration. Took it to the dealership for routine oil change and mentioned incident. Technician was not able to find cause. Ok so be it. Now May at a little over 73,000 miles multiple lights began to illuminate and flash. Still with decreased acceleration it was noticed on a Friday morning on my way to work: 1. Oil light flashed on and off for approximately 2 minutes. 2. Air bag light stays on 3. Electronic Stability Control light stays on I scheduled an appointment for the next day. Took it into nearest Kia dealership. I was informed that my engine had no oil in it. The electrical board that signals my airbags and power steering is “malfunctioning” and would need to be replaced. I was also told that since I just went for an oil change and was not due for another 3-4,000 miles maybe the “engine absorbed the oil as there are no visible leaks” I am set to return to Kia at the 1,000 mile mark to check oil levels to see if the oil is gone again. On my way to work again, on I-75 I felt extreme unsteadiness and loss of road grip with steering. Like I was loosing co trio of the vehicle while traveling at 55 miles an hour. As the original owner of this vehicle, with regular routine maintenance this is extremely concerning. I worry every day that my car will fail me and injure mine, my kids and others lives. I really hope this is looked into as a safety issue.
May 23, 2022
ENGINE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
Engine is consuming excessive oil. That could cause internal parts of the engine to wear faster because of less lubrication and could lead to an engine failure while driving, which could lead to engine stopping and loss of propulsion which could cause an accident. The car went through a oil consumption test with a Kia dealership and failed by consuming more than 1 qt of oil in a 1000 miles interval. The Kia dealership proceeded to do a combustion chamber cleaning procedure and re-did oil consumption test and it failed again. They also had requested service record which where provided. Even though Kia has a service bulletin on that matter, the service advisor at the Kia dealership said that the manufacturer declined the claim. Right now I’m constantly refilling oil in the engine which is also an additional expense. The first time I noticed the issue was in February, 2022 when the low oil pressure alert came on.
Apr 28, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
My air conditioner all of a sudden went out. No air would blow. Took it to Kia and it turns out that a fuse box blew on the main wiring harness, evidenced by burn marks on the bottom which then blew out my fan motor. Seems that Kia has had a lot of faulty wiring harnesses and it could have definetly caused a fire and is a safety hazard. My car is out of warranty by 8k miles and they are trying to make me pay for something that I believe is a defect as they said themselves that they cant even determine the cause as this is not normal wear and tear nor something I could have caused. I cannot afford to pay for this and I do believe that Kia needs to make this right. Because everything electrical plugs into this one wiring harness, they have to replace the whole thing costing over $3600. There was no warnings or lights that came on. I do believe that this also messed with the airbag sensor in the passenger seat as well. This is not right for consumers to have to worry about this. This is a 2017 car... it should not be failing.
Jan 21, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
Several weeks ago, we had trouble opening and closing the trunk of our 2017 KIA Optima. Then a few weeks ago, the trunk of our KIA Optima closed and would not open at all. Because of the pandemic, we didn't contact KIA. But today, 16 Dec. 2021, as my wife was driving north in heavy traffic on US Highway 25 in Albuquerque, NM, the trunk suddenly opened and blocked her view of the cars behind her. Luckily she was in the right lane and was able to exit the highway. Otherwise there might have been a serious accident. We bought the car in 2017 from Fiesta KIA in Albuquerque, NM (505-999-2745). They have been unresponsive.
Dec 16, 2021
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated while stationary at a traffic light, while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to continue driving to her residence. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic and was informed that the engine knock sensor needed to be replaced. The contact called the local dealer and made them aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V907000 (Fuel System, Gasoline, Engine) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 68,000.
Aug 09, 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
1 complaint
THE WIRING HARNESS WAS REPLACED IN MY 2017 KIA OPTIMA IN 2019 AT APPROXIMATELY 45,000 MILES. KIA REPLACED MY ENGINE JANUARY 2020 BECAUSE IT WAS CONSUMING LARGE AMOUNTS OF OIL. I JUST GOT MY CAR BACK IN JANUARY 28, 2021 WITH A SUPPOSEDLY NEW ENGINE. ON MARCH 3, 2021, MY CAR CAUGHT FIRE WHILE PULLING OUT OF MY NEIGHBORHOOD ACTUALLY DRIVING DOWN THE STREET. SMOKE AND FLAMES WERE COMING OUT FROM UNDERNEATH THE HOOD THE OF THE CAR. THE ENTIRE FRONT END OF THE CAR BURNED. THANKFULLY, THE FIRE DEPARTMENT GOT THE FIRE OUT AND NO ONE WAS INJURED.
Mar 04, 2021
VISIBILITY
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SUN ROOF EXPLODED WITHOUT IMPACT WHILE PARKED IN THE GARAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE IN THE HOUSE SHE HEARD AN ABNORMALLY LOUD BOOMING SOUND. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 37,300.
Nov 23, 2020
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
WITHIN A WEEK BOTH FRONT AND REAR PASSENGER WHEEL SPEED SENSORS FAILED. RESULTING IN A PROMPT ON DASH AT START UP AND CONSISTENTLY DISPLAYED FOR AEB SYSTEM SERVICE AFTER VEHICLES AUTOMATIC SYSTEM SCAN AN SEE DIFFERENCE IN MILEAGE IN ATTACHED PICTURES. KIA TECHNICIAN SAID IT IS A COMMON ISSUE AND SEES ATLEAST 4-5 VEHICLES PER WEEK WITH THIS PART FAILURE.
Oct 23, 2020
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
1 complaint
BOUGHT MY KIA 1 AGO & ALWAYS HAD A PROBLEM W/HEADLIGHTS ALWAYS TURNING ON & OFF WHEN IN AUTO MODE. TRUNK LATCH HAD TO BE REPLACED DUE LATCH NOT LOCKING WHEN TRYING TO CLOSE TRUNK. DEALERSHIP SAID THEY GET 20-30 LATCH ISSUES W/MY MAKE & MODEL OF KIA EVERY WEEK. AFTER VEHICLE STARTS CAR JUST DIES & ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON. AT TIMES CAR WILL STAY ON BUT STUTTERS LIKE ITS GOING TO DIE.
Sep 05, 2020
SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
POWER TRAIN; SHIFT LOCK SPECIFICALLY: HAD TO USE THE RELEASE CONTROL MORE THAN ONCE. WHILE DRIVING WHEN IT HAPPENS, I FEEL A SURGE/ DECLINE IN ACCELERATION(SOMETHING I REQUESTED BE CHECKED A YEAR AND A HALF AGO, BUT KIA SAID THEY COULD NOT RECREATE MY DESCRIPTION).CONTINUES TO DRIVE BUT SLUGGISH TO ACCELERATE. ONCE I PUT INTO "PARK" I CANNOT GET IT OUT OF PARK EXCEPT TO USE RELEASE. IT DID RESET(?) WHEN I TURNED THE CAR OFF. SUSPENSION; FIRST FEW MONTHS OF OWNING THE CAR I PERIODICALLY HEARD A CREAK IN REAR SUSPENSION HERE AND THERE WHEN BACKING OUT OF DRIVEWAY/GUTTER SLOPE. HAVE NOTICED AN INCREASED CREAKING AND MORE BOUNCE WHILE DRIVING OVER TIME BUT HAVE NOT EVEN OWNED CAR MORE THAN 2 YEARS.
Jul 18, 2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEAT BELTS,ENGINE
1 complaint
BOUGHT ON 9-12-2019 WITH APPROXIMATELY 15,400+ MILES. IT NOW HAS 15,750+ MILES. IT HAS STALLED/POWERED OFF ON ME TWICE. FIRST TIME WAS OCT 7, 2019, PARKED ON THE CURB WHEN I WAS PICKING UP MY DAUGHTER FROM SCHOOL, WHEN SHE GOT IN THE CAR AND I WAS ABOUT TO DRIVE OFF FROM THE CURBSIDE AND WHEN I LIFTED MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE AND STEPPED ON THE GAS, THE CAR WOULDN'T MOVE. I REALIZED THE POWER OFF SO I SWITCHED THE IGNITION TO OFF AND TURNED IT ON AGAIN TO START THE ENGINE AGAIN. I THOUGHT IT WAS JUST A LITTLE GLITCH. IT HAPPENED AGAIN ON OCT 26, 2019 WHEN I WAS ON THE DRIVE THRU OF TACO BELL. I WAS WAITING IN LINE AND AGAIN, WHEN I LIFTED MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE TO MOVE FORWARD, IT WOULDN'T MOVE BECAUSE THE POWER HAD JUST SHUT OFF AGAIN. I HAD TO RESTART THE ENGINE. I COMPLAINED TO MY SON ABOUT THE CAR BUT DIDN'T DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT BECAUSE IT WAS PAST THE 7 DAY EXCHANGE OR RETURN. BUT PLANNED TO BRING IT UP ON MY SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE UNLESS IT HAPPENS AGAIN. I WAS ALWAYS CAUTIOUS AND WORRIED THAT I WILL STALL IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC OR WORSE, WHILE DRIVING. MOSTLY THE REASON WHY I'VE ONLY DRIVEN THE CAR LESS THAN 300 MILES SINCE I BOUGHT IT ABOUT 4.5 MONTHS AGO. THEN YESTERDAY MORNING, JAN 28, 2020, ON MY ERRANDS TO TWO DOCTOR APPOINTMENTS, THE PASSENGER SEATBELT SIGN WAS BEEPING AND FLASHING THE WHOLE TIME I DROVE AROUND THAT DAY, WHEN THERE WAS NOBODY WITH ME IN THE CAR. IT FINALLY STOPPED WHEN IN THE AFTERNOON WHEN I WAS CLOSE TO HOME AND AFTER I PICKED MY PRESCRIPTIONS FROM THE PHARMACY CLOSE TO MY HOUSE. NOW I AM CURIOUS AND WONDERING WHY THE NAVY MAN TRADED THIS CAR IN WHEN HE'D ONLY HAD IT FOR LA YEAR AND SPENT MONEY ON NEW BLACK RIMS AND BLACKED OUT TINTED WINDOWS. I WOULD LIKE TO HAVE AN INQUIRY ON WHAT PROBLEMS THE PREVIOUS OWNER HAD WITH THE CAR BECAUSE OF THE SHORT TIME HE OWNED IT AND DROVE IT. I'M MORE TERRIFIED TO DRIVE AFTER READING OTHER'S ISSUES.
Jan 29, 2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING TO WORK AT NIGHT TIME FOR ABOUT A WEEK STRAIGHT MY HEAD LIGHTS WOULD RANDOMLY TURN ON AND OFF BY THEIR SELVES WHILE I'M DRIVING AND THEN MY CAR WOULD BE SITTING IN MY PARKING SPACE AND MY NEIGHBORS TOLD ME MY LIGHTS WOULD JUST BE ON ALL NIGHT AND MY CAR WOULD BE LOCKED AND EVERYTHING AND ONE DAY I WENT OUT TO START MY CAR AND I COULDN'T EVEN UNLOCK IT TO GET IN IT SO I THOUGHT IT MIGHT'VE BEEN MY CAR REMOTE BATTERY DIED AND SO I ASKED A NEIGHBOR THAT WORKS ON CARS TO SEE WHAT IT COULD BE THEY POPPED MY HOOD AND CHECKED MY CAR BATTERY AND IT WAS COMPLETELY DEAD, THEY TRIED TO GIVE ME A JUMP WHICH WAS JUST ENOUGH TO ALLOW ME TO UNLOCK AND GET INTO MY VEHICLE BUT MY CAR BATTERY WAS COMPLETELY FRIED DUE TO HEADLIGHT SENSOR.
Sep 30, 2019
SEAT BELTS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
SEAT BEAT SOUNDS OFF WHILE DRIVING AND SEAT BELT IS FASTEN. IT DINGS AS IF THE SEAT BELT IS NOT ON. SECONDLY, RADIO PLAYS BUT NO LIGHTS NO CAMERA WORKS FROM TIME TO.
Sep 12, 2019
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,ENGINE
1 complaint
WHILE MY SIGNIFICANT OTHER AND I WERE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY OUR CAR BEGAN SMOKING FROM UNDER THE HOOD, THEN SMOKE BEGAN COMING THROUGH THE AIR VENTS INSIDE THE CAR; WITHIN SECONDS WE SEEN FLAMES COMING OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD AND IMMEDIATELY EVACUATED THE VEHICLE IN HEAVY TRAFFIC WITH NO WHERE TO PULL OVER. WITHIN MINUTES THE ENTIRE CAR WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. THERE WAS NO WARNING, OUR CAR WAS REGULARLY MAINTAINED, THERE WERE NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS OR OTHERS DISPLAYING ON THE DASH, NO LEAKS OR OVERHEATING TO CAUSE THIS.
Jul 22, 2019
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
WHILE ON AN HOUR'S DRIVE THE BSD (BLING SPOT DETECTION SYSTEM) CEASED TO OPERATE. THE ACTUATOR SWITCH WAS ILLUMINATED, BUT AN ERROR EXCLAMATION POINT APPEARED ON THE DASH NOTING THE BSD FAILURE. I DROVE ON FURTHER UNTIL I CAME TO STOP AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT. THIS HAD HAPPENED A COUPLE OF MONTHS AGO, ALSO. I TURNED OFF THE ENGINE AND PULLED THE KEY. I WAITED 30 SECONDS AND RESTARTED THE CAR. THEY SYSTEM CAME BACK ONLINE. FURTHER ALONG ON THE DRIVE IT HAPPENED AGAIN, AS I WAS DRIVING ON A HILLY ROAD. WHEN I WENT TO GIVE THE CAR MORE GAS, THE CAR DID NOT RESPOND. I FLOORED THE ACCELERATOR, AND THE CAR STILL DID NOT RESPOND, WHILE THE BSD MALFUNCTIONED AGAIN. IT WAS SIMULTANEOUS. ADDITIONALLY, THE SYSTEM ON THE DASHBOARD THAT INDICATES WHERE THE SHIFTER IS WENT DARK AND THE EXACT SAME TIME AS THE FAILURE IN BOTH CASES ON THIS DAY. OF COURSE I TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALER. THEY COULD NOT RE-CREATE THE ISSUE. THEY CALLED KIA CORPORATE TO SEE IF THERE WERE SIMILAR REPORTS WITH A FIX THEY MIGHT KNOW OF. THE FACTORY SENT A CYA RESPONSE TO THE DEALER STATING THAT KNEW NOTHING OF THIS ISSUE. I HAD GONE ON THE INTERNET AND FOUND SCORES OF SIMILAR BSD FAILURES IN BOTH KIA AND HYUNDAI WHICH ARE SISTER COMPANIES. I HAVE TO BELIEVE THE BSD MODULE IS MADE BY THE SAME MANUFACTURER FOR BOTH COMPANIES. I TOLD THE DEALERSHIP IF IT HAPPENED AGAIN WHILE I WAS IN THE AREA OF THE DEALERSHIP I WOULD DRIVE THE CAR THERE SO THEY COULD SEE AND POSSIBLY COME UP WITH A DIAGNOSTIC CODE WHILE THE FAILURE WAS IN PROGRESS. THEY HAD NO EXPLANATION FOR THE ASSOCIATED LOSS OF POWER...
Aug 08, 2018
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO WESELOH KIA CARLSBAD (LOCATED AT 5331 PASEO DEL NORTE, CARLSBAD, CA 92008 AT (760) 496-3131) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT WAS DEFECTIVE AND CAUSED THE LIGHT TO REMAIN ILLUMINATED. THE VOLTAGE ALTERNATOR ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE INADVERTENTLY DRIFTED TO THE RIGHT AND LEFT. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TAKEN BACK TO WESELOH KIA CARLSBAD, BUT NO DIAGNOSTIC CODES WERE FOUND AND THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE REPLICATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, WHILE ATTEMPTING TO DRIVE, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 300.
Sep 05, 2017
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2017 KIA Optima have?
The 2017 KIA Optima currently has 235 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.
What are the most common problems with 2017 KIA Optima?
The most common problems reported for the 2017 KIA Optima are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.
Where does this 2017 KIA Optima problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2017 KIA Optima comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
Other Years - KIA Optima
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