2003 KIA OPTIMA
2 recalls, 190 complaints - 31 TSBs
09V183000 May 27, 2009
SUSPENSION:FRONT
Defect Description
KIA MOTORS CORPORATION (KMC) IS RECALLING 36,538 MODEL YEAR 2001-2004 OPTIMA VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, ... Read more
Consequence
CORROSION OF THE FRONT SUBFRAME COULD LEAD TO SEPARATION, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy
KMC WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 15, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA'S CONSUMER ASSISTANCE CENTER AT 1-800-333-4542.
04V180000 Apr 12, 2004
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
Defect Description
SOME PASSENGER VEHICLES MAY CONTAIN A FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY VALVE THAT MAY NOT CLOSE PROPERLY. IF A VEHICLE WITH A FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY VALVE THAT IS NOT PROPERLY CLOSED WERE TO ROLL OVER, FUEL SPILLAGE MAY OCCUR.
Consequence
FUEL SPILLAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSTALL AN ADDITIONAL FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY VALVE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 25, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
Complaint Statistics
190 total complaints
10 crashes 2 fires 10 injuries
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES | 49 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 21 |
| STRUCTURE:BODY | 13 |
| AIR BAGS | 10 |
| STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR | 10 |
| SUSPENSION | 7 |
| UNKNOWN OR OTHER | 7 |
| AIR BAGS:FRONTAL | 4 |
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE | 4 |
| LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH | 4 |
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Feb 3, 2025
Incident date: Feb 1, 2025
I was driving to work from Livingston to Bozeman and the roads were bad so I was only going about 60 maybe 65 which was reasonable for the conditions this day, and out of nowhere my truck locked up and I slid it directly into the center median.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Feb 3, 2025
Incident date: Feb 1, 2025
I received a recall notice that my vehicle was affected for a battery cell that needed to be replaced and scheduled a date with Porsche and when I finally took the car in they said it’s not a active recall which seemed odd
SERVICE BRAKES
Feb 3, 2025
Incident date: Feb 1, 2025
I was driving to work from Livingston to Bozeman and the roads were bad so I was only going about 60 maybe 65 which was reasonable for the conditions this day, and out of nowhere my truck locked up and I slid it directly into the center median.
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
Nov 5, 2019
Incident date: Oct 7, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS OUT OF ALIGNMENT. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND WAS INFORMED THAT AN ALIGNMENT COULD NOT BE PERFORMED BECAUSE THE SUBFRAME WAS FRACTURED. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V18... Read more
SUSPENSION
Nov 5, 2019
Incident date: Oct 7, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS OUT OF ALIGNMENT. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND WAS INFORMED THAT AN ALIGNMENT COULD NOT BE PERFORMED BECAUSE THE SUBFRAME WAS FRACTURED. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V18... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY
Jul 29, 2019
Incident date: Jul 24, 2019
THE FRAME IS RUSTED THROUGH CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO BE UNSAFE, THOUGH IT HAD A RECALL FOR THIS EXACT PROBLEM AND IT WAS ONLY INSPECTED AND NOT REPLACED. THE CAR WAS INITIALLY TAKEN TO A LOCAL AUTO REPAIR SHOP FOR AN ALIGNMENT AS IT PULLED TO THE RIGHT, THE SHOP SAID THE FRAME WAS RUSTED SO BADLY TH... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY
Jun 14, 2018
Incident date: Jan 1, 2009
DRIVERS SIDE DOOR WILL NOT UNLOCK WITH KEY OR INSIDE DOOR LOOK SWITCH. THIS IS A REAL SAFETY HAZZARD.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Jun 14, 2018
Incident date: Jan 1, 2009
DRIVERS SIDE DOOR WILL NOT UNLOCK WITH KEY OR INSIDE DOOR LOOK SWITCH. THIS IS A REAL SAFETY HAZZARD.
SERVICE BRAKES
Jun 14, 2018
Incident date: Jan 1, 2009
DRIVERS SIDE DOOR WILL NOT UNLOCK WITH KEY OR INSIDE DOOR LOOK SWITCH. THIS IS A REAL SAFETY HAZZARD.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Dec 27, 2017
Incident date: Dec 25, 2017
AT 24,000 MILES MY VEHICLE STARTED LOCKING DOORS WHEN TEMPERATURES REACH 32 DEGREES OR LOWER. VEHICLE OUTSIDE ON CITY STREET OR DRIVEWAY. WHEN TEMPERATURES GET TO 32 DEGREES, DOORS LOCK AND DO NOT UNLOCK TO ALLOW ACCESS. IF YOU ARE INSIDE OF CAR IT LOCKS YOU INSIDE OF CAR, AS WELL AS OUT OF CAR. LOC... Read more
STRUCTURE
Jul 5, 2017
Incident date: Jun 16, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DULLES MOTORCARS LOCATED AT 107 CATOCTIN CIR SE, LEESBURG, VA 20175, PHONE NUMBER: (703) 777-7077, FOR A ROUTINE OIL CHANGE AND SAFETY INSPECTION, THERE IT WAS INFORMED BY THE TECHNICIAN OF SEVERE CORROSION AND CRAC... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY
Mar 11, 2017
Incident date: Aug 1, 2007
DRIVERS SIDE DOOR WILL NOT OPEN IF LOCKED WHEN CLOSED. MECHANISM WORKS FINE TO LOCK AND UNLOCK WHEN OPEN, HOWEVER. A PART IN THE LOCK ASSEMBLY APPEARS TO BE ROTATING TOO FAR AND GETTING STUCK. AS A RESULT, THE DOOR CANNOT BE OPENED IF LOCKED WHEN THE DOOR IS CLOSED OR THE DRIVER WILL HAVE TO CLIMB O... Read more
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Oct 19, 2016
Incident date: Oct 10, 2012
MY MAIN ISSUE IS THE DOOR LOCK ON THE DRIVERS SIDE. I CAN NOT OPEN MY DRIVERS SIDE DOOR FROM INSIDE OR OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE. THIS IS A MAJOR ISSUE AND THE PROBLEM HAS BEEN ALL OVER THE INTERNET FOR YEARS. EVERYONE THAT I KNOW THAT HAS A 2003 AND 2004 KIA OPTIMA HAS THE SAME PROBLEM. I BET EVERY VEHIC... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Oct 19, 2016
Incident date: Oct 10, 2012
MY MAIN ISSUE IS THE DOOR LOCK ON THE DRIVERS SIDE. I CAN NOT OPEN MY DRIVERS SIDE DOOR FROM INSIDE OR OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE. THIS IS A MAJOR ISSUE AND THE PROBLEM HAS BEEN ALL OVER THE INTERNET FOR YEARS. EVERYONE THAT I KNOW THAT HAS A 2003 AND 2004 KIA OPTIMA HAS THE SAME PROBLEM. I BET EVERY VEHIC... Read more
AIR BAGS
Sep 9, 2016
Incident date: Aug 29, 2016
AIR BAG LIGHT ON DASHBOARD IS LITE, FOR NO REASON! THE CAR HAS LESS THAN 48K MILES , NEVER BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT NOR HIT ANYTHING . I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE NOR HAVE ANYONE IN THE CAR WITH ME BECAUSE , IT'S WITHOUT AN AIRBAG THERE IS NO PROTECTION
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
May 11, 2016
Incident date: Apr 13, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE DOOR FAILED TO UNLOCK FROM EITHER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE WAS PERSISTENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT THE SAME FAILURE OCCURRED ON THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR PRIOR TO... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
May 11, 2016
Incident date: Apr 13, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE DOOR FAILED TO UNLOCK FROM EITHER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE WAS PERSISTENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT THE SAME FAILURE OCCURRED ON THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR PRIOR TO... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
May 6, 2016
Incident date: Apr 29, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA OPTIMA. WHEN UTILIZING THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR FRONT PASSENGER SIDE DOOR HANDLES, THEY FAILED TO OPERATE PROPERLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 177,526.
SUSPENSION
Apr 12, 2016
Incident date: Apr 11, 2016
KIA HAS ISSUED A RECALL (09V183000) HOWEVER IT DOES NOT INCLUDE THE STATE IN WHICH I RESIDE, BUT ALL BORDERING STATES TO THE EAST, WEST, AND NORTH. I'M IN KY AND STATES LIKE OH, IN, IL, WV, ARE INCLUDED. I'M HAVING THE EXACT ISSUE LISTED IN THE RECALL HOWEVER AS THEY HAVE SELECTED TO COVER ONLY SPEC... Read more
SUSPENSION
Nov 30, 2015
Incident date: Nov 22, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 20 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SWERVE AND DROVE INTO A DITCH. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED AND NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. TH... Read more
Crash
ENGINE
Nov 9, 2015
Incident date: Apr 15, 2010
AFTER 60,000 MILES, WHILE DRIVING OR WITH THE ENGINE RUNNING, THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND STAYED ON. THIS HAS BEEN REPAIRED THREE TIMES BY REPLACING A MAIN FUSE. EACH TIME IT HAS BEEN REPAIRED, THE PROBLEM HAS REOCCURRED. IN CONNECTION WITH THIS PROBLEM, THE DOOR WILL LOCK AFTER THE DRIVER EXITS ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Nov 9, 2015
Incident date: Apr 15, 2010
AFTER 60,000 MILES, WHILE DRIVING OR WITH THE ENGINE RUNNING, THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND STAYED ON. THIS HAS BEEN REPAIRED THREE TIMES BY REPLACING A MAIN FUSE. EACH TIME IT HAS BEEN REPAIRED, THE PROBLEM HAS REOCCURRED. IN CONNECTION WITH THIS PROBLEM, THE DOOR WILL LOCK AFTER THE DRIVER EXITS ... Read more
AIR BAGS
Nov 9, 2015
Incident date: Apr 15, 2010
AFTER 60,000 MILES, WHILE DRIVING OR WITH THE ENGINE RUNNING, THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND STAYED ON. THIS HAS BEEN REPAIRED THREE TIMES BY REPLACING A MAIN FUSE. EACH TIME IT HAS BEEN REPAIRED, THE PROBLEM HAS REOCCURRED. IN CONNECTION WITH THIS PROBLEM, THE DOOR WILL LOCK AFTER THE DRIVER EXITS ... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY
Oct 19, 2015
Incident date: Mar 15, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE PARKED, THE DOOR LOCK FAILED. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO USE THE FOBIK AND COULD LOCK THE DOORS, BUT THEY FAILED TO UNLOCK. THE CONTACT HAD TO UNLOCK AND LOCK THE DOORS MANUALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILUR... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Oct 19, 2015
Incident date: Mar 15, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE PARKED, THE DOOR LOCK FAILED. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO USE THE FOBIK AND COULD LOCK THE DOORS, BUT THEY FAILED TO UNLOCK. THE CONTACT HAD TO UNLOCK AND LOCK THE DOORS MANUALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILUR... Read more
AIR BAGS
Jun 10, 2015
Incident date: May 9, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000.
AIR BAGS
May 29, 2015
Incident date: Aug 20, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LAMP FLASHED AND REMAINED ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE. UPDATED 11/04/15*LJ UPDATED 2/1/2016*JS ... Read more
TIRES
Feb 10, 2015
Incident date: Feb 9, 2015
I STOPPED TO HAVE MY TIRE PRESSURE CHECKED AND THE MECHANICS WERE VERY CONCERNED WITH THE PASSENGER TIRE'S SIDEWALL SEPARATING FROM THE BODY OF THE TIRE. THEY HIGHLY SUGGESTED THEY REPLACE THE TIRE WITH THE DOUGHNUT SPARE EVEN THOUGH I WAS ONLYB10 MILES FROM HOME. AFTER INSPECTION OF THE OTHER TIR... Read more
SUSPENSION
Feb 3, 2015
Incident date: Jan 29, 2015
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE WHEEL SEPARATED FOR THE FRAME OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FAILURE WAS CAUSED DUE TO RUSTING AND CORROSION OF THE FRONT ... Read more
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Feb 2, 2015
Incident date: Jun 7, 2012
DOORS (ALL) WILL LOCK AFTER UNLOCKING WHEN YOU'RE TRYING TO GET IN. I UNLOCK THE DOOR, EITHER MANUALLY OR WITH THE KEY FOB, WHEN YOU PULL THE HANDLE TO OPEN THE DOOR THE DOORS LOCK. YOU CAN PLAY WITH IT AND FINALLY GET IN BUT I'VE HEARD ALOT OF PROBLEMS WITH THE SAME THING ON THE SAME MODEL. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Feb 2, 2015
Incident date: Jun 7, 2012
DOORS (ALL) WILL LOCK AFTER UNLOCKING WHEN YOU'RE TRYING TO GET IN. I UNLOCK THE DOOR, EITHER MANUALLY OR WITH THE KEY FOB, WHEN YOU PULL THE HANDLE TO OPEN THE DOOR THE DOORS LOCK. YOU CAN PLAY WITH IT AND FINALLY GET IN BUT I'VE HEARD ALOT OF PROBLEMS WITH THE SAME THING ON THE SAME MODEL. *TR
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Dec 26, 2014
Incident date: Apr 16, 2014
THE PROBLEM WITH THIS MAKE AND MODEL OF CAR IS WITH THE DOOR LOCKING MECHANISM. IT STARTED IN APRIL WITH A PROBLEM WITH THE DRIVERS SIDE FRONT DOOR. WHEN YOU UNLOCKED THE DOORS WITH THE KEY FOB, ALL THE DOORS WOULD UNLOCK, BUT WHEN YOU GRABBED THE HANDLE OF THE DOOR TO OPEN IT, ALL THE DOORS TO THE ... Read more
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
Dec 21, 2014
Incident date: Dec 8, 2014
DRIVERS DOOR IS JAMMED LOCKED. THE REMOTE WORKS THE LOCKS MOVE WITH REMOTE AND KEY. THE DOOR DOES NOT OPEN. MULTIPLE COMPLAINTS ON KIA FORUM REGARDING DOOR LOCKS. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Dec 21, 2014
Incident date: Dec 8, 2014
DRIVERS DOOR IS JAMMED LOCKED. THE REMOTE WORKS THE LOCKS MOVE WITH REMOTE AND KEY. THE DOOR DOES NOT OPEN. MULTIPLE COMPLAINTS ON KIA FORUM REGARDING DOOR LOCKS. *TR
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Dec 18, 2014
Incident date: Dec 1, 2014
THE AUTO DOOR LOCK WOULD SNAP SHUT FROM INSIDE OR OUT. MY DAUGHTER HAVE TO CRAWL THROUGH THE PASSENGER SIDE. *TR
AIR BAGS
Oct 16, 2014
Incident date: Sep 22, 2014
THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. THE DOORS WOULD LOCK WITHOUT ANY PROMPTS. THE HORN WOULD HONK WHILE PARKED IN THE GARAGE. THE CAR WAS CHECKED OUT ON THE COMPUTER AND THE DRIVER'S AIR BAG NEEDS REPLACED AND THERE IS AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Oct 16, 2014
Incident date: Sep 22, 2014
THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. THE DOORS WOULD LOCK WITHOUT ANY PROMPTS. THE HORN WOULD HONK WHILE PARKED IN THE GARAGE. THE CAR WAS CHECKED OUT ON THE COMPUTER AND THE DRIVER'S AIR BAG NEEDS REPLACED AND THERE IS AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM. *TR
AIR BAGS
Aug 6, 2014
Incident date: Jul 17, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE DOOR FAILED TO UNLOCK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT IN ORDER TO GET INSIDE THE VEHICLE, HE HAD TO CLIMB OVER TO THE DRIVER SIDE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE "AIR BAG" WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED CONTINUOUSLY. ... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY
Aug 6, 2014
Incident date: Jul 17, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE DOOR FAILED TO UNLOCK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT IN ORDER TO GET INSIDE THE VEHICLE, HE HAD TO CLIMB OVER TO THE DRIVER SIDE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE "AIR BAG" WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED CONTINUOUSLY. ... Read more
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Jul 9, 2014
Incident date: Sep 11, 2012
THE DOOR(S) HAVE LOCKED AND WILL NOT UNLOCK WITHOUT MANY ATTEMPTS TO PULL ON THE HANDLE WHILE TURNING THE KEY. WHEN IT FIRST HAPPENED TO THE PASSENGER SIDE, ATTEMPTS AT UNLOCKING WITH THE KEY RESULTED IN ALL DOORS LOCKING WHEN THE INNER OR OUTER HANDLE WAS PULLED, POTENTIALLY TRAPPING SOMEONE IN TH... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
May 9, 2014
Incident date: May 1, 2014
THE DOOR WILL NOT UNLOCK WITH A KEY FOB, KEY OR MANUALLY. YOU ARE LITERALLY LOCKED IN THE CAR AND CANNOT OPEN THE DOOR TO GET OUT. THIS IS HORRIBLY DANGEROUS AND IF YOU WERE IN AN ACCIDENT YOU COULD NOT GET OUT OF THE CAR. PLEASE HELP GET A RECALL ON THIS PART. THIS CAR IS NOT SAFE. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Apr 18, 2014
Incident date: Apr 14, 2014
FIRST: IN THE AFFECT PARTS SECTION OF THIS COMPLAINT THERE IS NO WHERE TO MARK DEFECTIVE LOCKS. I HAVE 2003 KIA OPTIMA SE FOUR-DOOR. IT WILL CONTINUOUSLY LOCK AND UNLOCK AUTOMATICALLY. WILL ONLY STOP CLICKING ON AND OFF WHEN ENGINE IS TURNED OFF. THIS POSES A SAFETY ISSUE BY BEING LOCKED IN AN... Read more
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Apr 18, 2014
Incident date: Apr 14, 2014
FIRST: IN THE AFFECT PARTS SECTION OF THIS COMPLAINT THERE IS NO WHERE TO MARK DEFECTIVE LOCKS. I HAVE 2003 KIA OPTIMA SE FOUR-DOOR. IT WILL CONTINUOUSLY LOCK AND UNLOCK AUTOMATICALLY. WILL ONLY STOP CLICKING ON AND OFF WHEN ENGINE IS TURNED OFF. THIS POSES A SAFETY ISSUE BY BEING LOCKED IN AN... Read more
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Mar 4, 2014
Incident date: Feb 5, 2011
MY FRONT PASSENGER DOOR HAD BECOME COMPLETELY STUCK CLOSED AND WONT OPEN. THE LOCK MECHANISMS WORK FINE FOR ALL FOUR DOORS STILL AS WELL AS THE WINDOWS.
STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
Jan 27, 2014
Incident date: Jan 1, 2014
I HAD PARKED AT THE GROCERY STORE ONE NIGHT AND MY CAR DOOR WOULDN'T SHUT. IT APPEARED AS THOUGH THE LATCH WAS STUCK IN A POSITION THAT WOULDN'T CATCH. FINALLY, AFTER LIFTING THE DOOR HANDLE AND PUSHING THE DOOR SHUT, IT STAYED CLOSED. WHEN I CAME OUT OF THE STORE, I FOUND THAT THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR ... Read more
POWER TRAIN
Jan 8, 2014
Incident date: Dec 30, 2013
MY WIFE NOTICED THE CAR PULLING TO THE RIGHT AND CALLED HER BROTHER. HE LOOKED AT THE VEHICLE THAT EVENING 12/30/2013. HE DROVE THE CAR PULLING ONTO A HIGHWAY, THE CAR WOULD NOT MOVE -- NEITHER FORWARD NOR REVERSE. HE PUSHED THE VEHICLE OFF THE ROAD AND THE FRONT AXLE DROPPED OUT OF THE TRANSMISS... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY
Jan 8, 2014
Incident date: Dec 30, 2013
MY WIFE NOTICED THE CAR PULLING TO THE RIGHT AND CALLED HER BROTHER. HE LOOKED AT THE VEHICLE THAT EVENING 12/30/2013. HE DROVE THE CAR PULLING ONTO A HIGHWAY, THE CAR WOULD NOT MOVE -- NEITHER FORWARD NOR REVERSE. HE PUSHED THE VEHICLE OFF THE ROAD AND THE FRONT AXLE DROPPED OUT OF THE TRANSMISS... Read more
SUSPENSION
Jan 8, 2014
Incident date: Dec 30, 2013
MY WIFE NOTICED THE CAR PULLING TO THE RIGHT AND CALLED HER BROTHER. HE LOOKED AT THE VEHICLE THAT EVENING 12/30/2013. HE DROVE THE CAR PULLING ONTO A HIGHWAY, THE CAR WOULD NOT MOVE -- NEITHER FORWARD NOR REVERSE. HE PUSHED THE VEHICLE OFF THE ROAD AND THE FRONT AXLE DROPPED OUT OF THE TRANSMISS... Read more
SUSPENSION
Jan 2, 2014
Incident date: Dec 31, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE DRIVER ATTEMPTED TO COMPLETE A RIGHT TURN, THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE AXLE FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY A LOCAL MECHANIC, WHO DISCOVERED THAT THE AXLE HAD BECOME SEPARATED DUE TO SEVERE CORROSION OF THE SUB FRAME. T... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Dec 26, 2013
Incident date: Dec 23, 2010
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVERS SIDE DOOR LOCKED AND SHE WAS UNABLE TO UNLOCK IT MANUALLY OR BY USING THE KEY FOB. SHE WAS FORCED TO CLIMB INTO THE BACK SEAT IN ORDER TO EXIT THE VEHICLE. WHEN THE FAILURE RECENTLY RECURRED ALL OF THE DOORS FAILED TO UNLOCK... Read more
Showing 50 of 190 complaints.
EPA Fuel Economy, 2003 KIA OPTIMA
| Trim / Engine | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG | Fuel Type | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4L 4-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) | 19.0 | 27.0 | 22.0 | Regular | $2,850 |
| 2.4L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) | 20.0 | 27.0 | 23.0 | Regular | $2,700 |
| 2.7L 6-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) | 18.0 | 25.0 | 21.0 | Regular | $2,950 |
| 2.7L 6-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) | 18.0 | 26.0 | 21.0 | Regular | $2,950 |
CO2 Emissions: -1.0 g/mile (Midsize Cars)
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.
Technical Service Bulletins, 2003 KIA OPTIMA
31 manufacturer communications from 22 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE | 6 |
| 356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY | 3 |
| 357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER | 2 |
| 060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING | 2 |
| 151400 SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY | 1 |
| 138120 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT | 1 |
| 061110 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS | 1 |
| 090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER | 1 |
TSB_BOD055_R1
Sep 13, 2021
160000 STRUCTURE
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This b
TSB_BOD055_R1
Sep 13, 2021
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This b
PS539
Mar 2, 2018
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
PITSTOP - ENGINE COMPONENT RE-USE GUIDELINES - In general, parts and components removed during engine repairs should be considered serviceable, and should be thoroughly cleaned and transferred to the new engine.
TSB-GEN085R1
Jan 18, 2017
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners, which are designed to lock into place once fully attached, are utilized in various Kia models and are strictly intended for ?one time use.? Some example
TSB-GEN085R1
Jan 18, 2017
354000 EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL
TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners, which are designed to lock into place once fully attached, are utilized in various Kia models and are strictly intended for ?one time use.? Some example
TSB-GEN085
Nov 4, 2016
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners utilized in various Kia models are strictly intended for ?one time use?. Though not limited to the following, some examples are: axle shaft nuts with sta
TSB-GEN085
Nov 4, 2016
170000 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners utilized in various Kia models are strictly intended for ?one time use?. Though not limited to the following, some examples are: axle shaft nuts with sta
PS443
Apr 4, 2016
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
TSB - USE OF AFTERMARKET USB CHARGING CABLES IN USB/12V PORTS - This article provides information regarding the use of USB ports and 12V power outlets to connect/charge mobile phones. Customers may experience issues with their head units th
PS443
Apr 4, 2016
350000 EQUIPMENT
TSB - USE OF AFTERMARKET USB CHARGING CABLES IN USB/12V PORTS - This article provides information regarding the use of USB ports and 12V power outlets to connect/charge mobile phones. Customers may experience issues with their head units th
PS443
Apr 4, 2016
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TSB - USE OF AFTERMARKET USB CHARGING CABLES IN USB/12V PORTS - This article provides information regarding the use of USB ports and 12V power outlets to connect/charge mobile phones. Customers may experience issues with their head units th
TSBTRA046
Dec 6, 2013
100000 POWER TRAIN
TSB: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID APPLICATION GUIDE - THIS BULLETIN PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATING TO THE CORRECT AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUIDS THAT ARE REQUIRED FOR EACH KIA MODEL. REFER TO THE SHOP MANUAL ON KGIS FOR THE SPECIFIC KIA MODEL
TSB-068
May 1, 2010
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
KIA: INTERMITTENT MIL ON WITH NO FAULT CODE STORED; INFORMATION ABOUT DTC P1330. PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATING TO CERTAIN VEHICLES. IN AFFECTED VEHICLES AN INTERMITTENT SHORT TO GROUND IN A CIRCUIT ONLY INTENDED FOR TESTING PURPOSES MAY C
TSB-044
Nov 1, 2009
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
KIA: ECM UPGRADE WITH TP SENSOR REPLACEMENT-MIL ON WITH DTC P2135/P0638. INFORMATION RELATED TO ECM SOFTWARE AND TP SENSOR UPGRADE ON SOME VEHICLES WITH 2.7L ENGINES WHICH MAY EXPERIENCE A MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATED WITH
TSB-044
Nov 1, 2009
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
KIA: ECM UPGRADE WITH TP SENSOR REPLACEMENT-MIL ON WITH DTC P2135/P0638. INFORMATION RELATED TO ECM SOFTWARE AND TP SENSOR UPGRADE ON SOME VEHICLES WITH 2.7L ENGINES WHICH MAY EXPERIENCE A MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATED WITH
TSB-026
Jun 1, 2009
161000 STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
KIA: DURING A SERVICE PROCEDURE THAT REQUIRES THE SUBFRAME TO BE REMOVED FROM A 2001-2005 OPTIMA (MS) (V-6 OR I-4), AN IMPROVED SERVICE PROCEDURE HAS BEEN DEVELOPED TO ENHANCE SERVICE EFFICIENCY. *PE
TSB-026
Jun 1, 2009
161100 STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS
KIA: DURING A SERVICE PROCEDURE THAT REQUIRES THE SUBFRAME TO BE REMOVED FROM A 2001-2005 OPTIMA (MS) (V-6 OR I-4), AN IMPROVED SERVICE PROCEDURE HAS BEEN DEVELOPED TO ENHANCE SERVICE EFFICIENCY. *PE
KT-2008082201
Aug 28, 2008
125000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS
KIA: ALL MODELS. ARTICLE PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATING TO THE IMPROVED DURABILITY OF BULB LIFE FOR REAR COMBINATION BULB; REAR STOP LAMP/TAIL LAMP BULB UTILIZED ON MULTIPLE KIA MODELS. *PE
KT-2008082201
Aug 28, 2008
123000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS
KIA: ALL MODELS. ARTICLE PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATING TO THE IMPROVED DURABILITY OF BULB LIFE FOR REAR COMBINATION BULB; REAR STOP LAMP/TAIL LAMP BULB UTILIZED ON MULTIPLE KIA MODELS. *PE
KT-2008082201
Aug 28, 2008
053000 PARKING BRAKE:INDICATOR LIGHT
KIA: ALL MODELS. ARTICLE PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATING TO THE IMPROVED DURABILITY OF BULB LIFE FOR REAR COMBINATION BULB; REAR STOP LAMP/TAIL LAMP BULB UTILIZED ON MULTIPLE KIA MODELS. *PE
038
Nov 1, 2007
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
THIS BULLETIN PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATING TO AN ENGINE HESITATION OR THE ILLUMINATION OF THE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) FOR P0123 (THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR / SWITCH (A) CIRCUIT HIGH INPUT). *NJ
035
Sep 1, 2007
141100 AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE
SUPPLEMENT RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATION FOR B1378 AND B1382. *NJ
023
Oct 1, 2005
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
HESITATION FOR A SHORT PERIOD OF TIME AFTER AN INITIAL COLD START. ECM REPROGRAMMING/UPGRADE. *TT
82
Jan 1, 2005
061110 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS
IMPROVED TIMING BELTS FOR THE KIA RIO AND OPTIMA. *TT
006
Dec 1, 2004
090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
ENHANCED DIAGNOSIS AND REPAIR FOR P0446/P2422. *TT
016
Jul 1, 2004
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
O2 SENSOR ENGINE CONTROL MODULE UPGRADE. *TT
SC033
Sep 26, 2003
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
SERVICE LETTERS TO DEALERS AND OWNERS AND QUESTIONNAIRE REGARDING AIR CONDITIONING RECEIVER-DRIER REPLACEMENT. *TT
033
Sep 1, 2003
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
THIS TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN PROVIDES INFORMATION ON A SERVICE CAMPAIGN TO REPLACE THE AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM RECEIVER-DRIVER ON 2003MY OPTIMA MODELS PRODUCED FROM 11/14/02 THROUGH 4/16/03. *TT
012
May 1, 2003
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
OPTIMA CHARGING SYSTEM - V6 ENGINE. *TT
011
May 1, 2003
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
CHARGING SYSTEM CHANGES TO IMPROVE ALTERNATOR OUTPUT IN HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURE SEVERE OPERATING CONDITIONS. *TT
01055
Oct 22, 2002
151400 SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
SRS INDICATOR ON WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) 9-3 OR DRIVER'S SEAT BELT BUCKLE REPLACEMENT. *TT
56
Jan 1, 2002
138120 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT
AIR QUALITY SYSTEM. KIA TECH TIMES. *TT
NHTSA Safety Investigations, KIA OPTIMA
Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.
PE19004
Opened: Mar 29, 2019 , Closed: Dec 22, 2021
Non-crash Vehicle Fires
During this Preliminary Evaluation (PE), the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) assessed the scope, frequency and potential safety-related consequences of non-crash vehicle fires caused by both engine failures and failures of other vehicle systems/components in model year (MY) 2011-2014 Kia Optim... Read more
RQ17003
Opened: May 18, 2017 , Closed: Dec 22, 2021
Scope and Timeliness
NHTSA opened Recall Query (RQ) 17-003 to investigate the timeliness and scope of Kia?s Theta II GDI engine recall (Recall No. 17V-224), and Kia?s compliance with reporting requirements. On November 23, 2020, the Agency entered into a Consent Order with Kia to administratively resolve NHTSA?s asserti... Read more
PE10046
Opened: Nov 22, 2010 , Closed: Apr 5, 2011
Transmission Shift Cable Detachment
During manufacture the automatic transmission shift cables in certain subject vehicles were installed incorrectly causing extra tension on the cable.This condition can cause the shift cable to detach from the gear shifter assembly's dowel pin preventing the transmission from being shifted.The shift ... Read more
EA04030
Opened: Nov 4, 2004 , Closed: Nov 7, 2005
POWER DOOR LOCK FAILURE
INVESTIGATION FAILED TO DISCLOSE A MALFUNCTION WITH A CLEAR AND CONSISTENT PATTERN OF COMPROMISE TO MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY.FAILURE OF THE SUBJECT DOOR LOCKS MAY IMPEDE NORMAL EGRESS OF A VEHICLE OCCUPANT BUT DOES NOT ENTRAP THE OCCUPANT.COMPLAINTS AND WARRANTY DATA DOCUMENT THE DEFICIENCIES OF THE DOO... Read more
PE04050
Opened: Jul 7, 2004 , Closed: Nov 4, 2004
POWER DOOR LOCK FAILURE
THIS PE DISCLOSED THAT THE SUBJECT VEHICLES HAVE EXPERIENCED INCIDENTS OF THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN SIGNIFICANT NUMBERS.THIS PE HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS (EA04-030) TO FACILITATE A THOROUGH REVIEW OF THE MATTER, INCLUDING EVALUATION OF THE POTENTIAL SAFETY-RELATED CONSEQUENCES.
KIA OPTIMA - All Years Overview
Complete safety history for the KIA OPTIMA across all model years (2001, 2019).
59
Total Recalls
10,296
Total Complaints
5
Investigations
524
Reported Crashes
467
Reported Fires
24
Reported Deaths
KIA OPTIMA - Year by Year
Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.
| Year | Recalls | Complaints | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 0 | 199 | View |
| 2019 | 1 | 309 | View |
| 2018 | 2 | 329 | View |
| 2017 | 3 | 351 | View |
| 2016 | 5 | 1,067 | View |
| 2015 | 4 | 1,389 | View |
| 2014 | 7 | 780 | View |
| 2013 | 9 | 1,872 | View |
| 2012 | 5 | 1,260 | View |
| 2011 | 5 | 771 | View |
| 2010 | 1 | 99 | View |
| 2009 | 1 | 166 | View |
| 2008 | 3 | 188 | View |
| 2007 | 2 | 217 | View |
| 2006 | 2 | 214 | View |
| 2005 | 0 | 180 | View |
| 2004 | 1 | 306 | View |
| 2003 (current) | 2 | 190 | |
| 2002 | 3 | 168 | View |
| 2001 | 3 | 231 | View |