2004 KIA OPTIMA
1 recalls, 306 complaints - 24 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.
Complaint Statistics
306 total complaints
14 crashes 4 fires 10 injuries
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES | 73 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 42 |
| STRUCTURE:BODY | 28 |
| AIR BAGS | 21 |
| UNKNOWN OR OTHER | 12 |
| SUSPENSION | 10 |
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING | 8 |
| STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR | 8 |
| LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH | 8 |
| SUSPENSION:FRONT | 7 |
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Feb 11, 2025
Incident date: Dec 10, 2024
ELECTRICAL BRAKE FAILURE WARNING
STRUCTURE:BODY
Aug 23, 2022
Incident date: Aug 8, 2022
Door lock/unlock mechanism has failed. Unable to unlock and open door from outside or inside. This defect causes the door to stay locked and unable to open. This can trap people inside of the car if they are unable to crawl out a window or exit from another door. There are many reports of this on Ki... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Feb 16, 2022
Incident date: Nov 1, 2021
The contact owns a 2004 Kia Optima. The contact stated that after refueling, the vehicle would not start. The vehicle was not taken to a local dealer. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 04V180000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the VIN was not include... Read more
SUSPENSION
Mar 31, 2021
Incident date: Mar 29, 2021
I WAS REPAIRING BRAKELINES, WHILE OBSERVING UNDER CARRIAGE I NOTICED SUSPENSION RUST, FRAME. LOOKED UP RECALLS AND THIS IS ONE. I INCLUDED SCREENSHOT OF PROOG
LANE DEPARTURE: WARNING
Mar 31, 2021
Incident date: Mar 29, 2021
I WAS REPAIRING BRAKELINES, WHILE OBSERVING UNDER CARRIAGE I NOTICED SUSPENSION RUST, FRAME. LOOKED UP RECALLS AND THIS IS ONE. I INCLUDED SCREENSHOT OF PROOG
AIR BAGS
Mar 31, 2021
Incident date: Mar 29, 2021
I WAS REPAIRING BRAKELINES, WHILE OBSERVING UNDER CARRIAGE I NOTICED SUSPENSION RUST, FRAME. LOOKED UP RECALLS AND THIS IS ONE. I INCLUDED SCREENSHOT OF PROOG
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Jan 30, 2019
Incident date: Oct 25, 2018
WHILE DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY WITH CRUISE CONTROL ACTIVE, I WAS UNABLE TO TURN OFF THE CRUISE CONTROL WITH THE STEERING WHEEL CONTROL BUTTONS. THE CANCEL AND SET BUTTONS HAD NO EFFECT WHEN PRESSED. THE CAR REMAINED TRAVELING AT THE SET SPEED. TAPPING ON THE BRAKE PEDAL DID CANCEL THE CRUISE CONTROL.
STRUCTURE:BODY
Mar 26, 2018
Incident date: Mar 23, 2018
WHILE STATIONARY - DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR WILL NOT OPEN FROM INSIDE OR OUTSIDE WITH KEY, MANUAL LOCK OR ELECTRONIC LOCK CONTROLS (STUCK CLOSED). UNABLE TO EVACUATE CAR FROM DRIVER'S SIDE. SAFETY CONCERN - LACK OF EGRESS
AIR BAGS
Jan 16, 2018
Incident date: Nov 2, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE FROM THE FRONT. THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED STOMACH AND CHEST INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS... Read more
Crash
1 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Dec 23, 2017
Incident date: Dec 12, 2017
UNABLE TO OPEN PASSENGER DOOR DUE TO DOOR LOCK ACTUATOR STOPPED WORKING. UNSAFE TO DRIVE.
STRUCTURE:BODY
Nov 29, 2017
Incident date: May 1, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BILL DORATY KIA (2925 MEDINA RD, MEDINA, OH 44256, (330) 721-9500) FOR ROUTINE BRAKE SERVICE, THE TECHNICIAN FOUND A CRACK IN THE FRONT FRAME. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SAFE TO DRIVE AT THAT TIME. THE CONTACT WAS INFO... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY
Apr 29, 2017
Incident date: Apr 29, 2017
DRIVER DOOR DOES NOT OPEN FROM INSIDE NOR FROM OUTSIDE. WHEN UNLOCKING THE DOORS, ALL DOORS WILL OPEN EXCEPT THE DRIVER'S DOOR. CENTER LOCK MECHANISM OR MANUAL USE OF KEYS DOES NOT HELP. THIS IS WITHOUT A DOUBT A SAFETY PROBLEM WHERE DRIVER CAN BE TRAPPED IN THE CAR IN CASE OF EMERGENCY. THIS IS VER... Read more
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Mar 24, 2017
Incident date: Mar 8, 2017
CANNOT ADD FUEL BECAUSE THE PUMP STOPS FROM FILLING UP THE TANK. IT TOOK ME ABOUT 7 TIMES TO GET IN $7 WORTH OF GAS. EVEN THOUGH THIS CAR ONLY HAS 25,830 MILES ON IT. IT HAS HARDLY BEEN USED. WE PUT GAS IN ABOUT EVERY 3 OR 4 WEEKS - NOT THAT OFTEN.
SUSPENSION
Feb 22, 2017
Incident date: Feb 21, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED INSPECTION DUE TO SEVERE CORROSION OF THE SUBFRAME. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V183000 (SUSPENSION) AS A ... Read more
ENGINE
Feb 17, 2017
Incident date: Jan 8, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOST POWER AND SEVERAL INDICATORS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE SHUT DOWN AND WAS PUSHED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITH THE HELP OF THE STATE HIGHWAY PATROL. THE VEHICLE WAS LATER TOWED TO AN IND... Read more
AIR BAGS
Jan 13, 2017
Incident date: Dec 8, 2016
THE AIR BAG WENT OFF WHILE MY WIFE WAS REACHING FOR HER SEAT BELT AND SCRAPPED AND BURNED HER ARM. IT SOUNDED LIKE A GUN GOING OFF. I RUSHED HER HOME AND TOOK CARE OF HER WOUNDS
1 injured
STRUCTURE:BODY
Jan 9, 2017
Incident date: Jan 2, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL LOUD SOUND FROM THE VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRAME FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED PER AN UNKNOWN RECALL; HOWEVER, THE REMEDY FAILED TO REPAIR THE VEH... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
Dec 12, 2016
Incident date: Dec 9, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR FAILED TO UNLOCK. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO GAIN ACCESS AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 101,000.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Dec 12, 2016
Incident date: Dec 9, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR FAILED TO UNLOCK. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO GAIN ACCESS AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 101,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Dec 5, 2016
Incident date: Nov 30, 2016
DRIVER'S DOOR LOCKING SYSTEM WILL NOT UNLOCK, ALL OTHERS DO. THE DOOR LOCKS ITSELF IMMEDIATELY AS YOU TRY TO UNLOCK EITHER WITH THE KEY (OUTSIDE) OR PRESSING THE CENTRAL LOCK BUTTON (WHEN INSIDE). THIS WOULD BE A SERIOUS PROBLEM IF THE CAR WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT AND/OR FIRE WAS AN ISSUE. RIGHT... Read more
AIR BAGS
Oct 30, 2016
Incident date: Oct 27, 2016
AIR BAG LIGHT ON DASHBOARD STAYS ON, STARTED TWO DAYS A GO.
STRUCTURE:BODY
Oct 4, 2016
Incident date: Oct 1, 2015
PASSENGER AND DRIVER DOOR LOCKS WILL NOT UNLOCK 85% OF THE TIME, PREVENTING NORMAL ENTRY TO / EXIT FROM THE VEHICLE. MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS USING THE KEY IN THE DOOR LATCH ARE REQUIRED TO GAIN ENTRY THE OTHER 15% OF THE TIME. THIS IS A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE IN CASE OF CRASH, FIRE, OR CARJACKING. INTERNET ... Read more
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
Sep 1, 2016
Incident date: Jan 1, 2013
MY AIR BAG LIGHT COMES ON THERE'S NO WIRES DISCONNECTED UNDER THE SEAT AND MY SEAT BELTS DO NOT RETRACT WELL ALSO MY DOOR LOCKS ARE GETTING STUCK IN LOCK MODE AND MY ENGINE COMES ON AND THEN GOES OFF.AFTER AWHILE.WHEN IN PARK
SEAT BELTS
Sep 1, 2016
Incident date: Jan 1, 2013
MY AIR BAG LIGHT COMES ON THERE'S NO WIRES DISCONNECTED UNDER THE SEAT AND MY SEAT BELTS DO NOT RETRACT WELL ALSO MY DOOR LOCKS ARE GETTING STUCK IN LOCK MODE AND MY ENGINE COMES ON AND THEN GOES OFF.AFTER AWHILE.WHEN IN PARK
AIR BAGS
Sep 1, 2016
Incident date: Jan 1, 2013
MY AIR BAG LIGHT COMES ON THERE'S NO WIRES DISCONNECTED UNDER THE SEAT AND MY SEAT BELTS DO NOT RETRACT WELL ALSO MY DOOR LOCKS ARE GETTING STUCK IN LOCK MODE AND MY ENGINE COMES ON AND THEN GOES OFF.AFTER AWHILE.WHEN IN PARK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Aug 16, 2016
Incident date: May 6, 2015
ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, WHEN MANUALLY UNLOCKING THE POWER DOOR LOCKS, THEY WILL IMMEDIATELY LOCK AGAIN AND WILL GO INTO A LOOP OF UNLOCK-RELOCK, WHETHER USING THE MANUAL DOOR LOCK OR THE POWER LOCK SWITCH (THE RELAY CLICKS BUT NOTHING HAPPENS WHEN USING THE SWITCH). THIS HAPPENS ABOUT 10% OF THE TIME.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Aug 14, 2016
Incident date: Aug 1, 2016
DRIVERS DOOR LOCK WILL NOT OPEN FROM INSIDE AT ALL & ONLY 10%OF THE TIME FROM OUTSIDE WITH KEY. PULLED FUSE ON ACTUATORS & LOCK CONTINUES TO MALFUNCTION. CAN NOT EFFICIENTLY GET IN OR OUT OF THE CAR. HAVE TO SLIDE OVER CENTER TO REACH PASSENGER DOOR TO GET OUT. I AM 6'4" SO THIS IS A REAL SAFETY HAZ... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Aug 11, 2016
Incident date: Sep 8, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, AN ABNORMAL CLICKING NOISE EMITTED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE POWER STEERING FAILED AND THE WHEELS SHOOK VIOLENTLY. THE BRAKES FAILED TO STOP THE VEHICLE AND IT CRASHED INTO A WALL. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AND AN UNKNOWN SUBSTANCE ... Read more
Crash
1 injured
AIR BAGS
Aug 11, 2016
Incident date: Sep 8, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, AN ABNORMAL CLICKING NOISE EMITTED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE POWER STEERING FAILED AND THE WHEELS SHOOK VIOLENTLY. THE BRAKES FAILED TO STOP THE VEHICLE AND IT CRASHED INTO A WALL. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AND AN UNKNOWN SUBSTANCE ... Read more
Crash
1 injured
STEERING
Aug 11, 2016
Incident date: Sep 8, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, AN ABNORMAL CLICKING NOISE EMITTED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE POWER STEERING FAILED AND THE WHEELS SHOOK VIOLENTLY. THE BRAKES FAILED TO STOP THE VEHICLE AND IT CRASHED INTO A WALL. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AND AN UNKNOWN SUBSTANCE ... Read more
Crash
1 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Aug 9, 2016
Incident date: Jun 15, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE LOCKED AND UNLOCKED WITHOUT USING THE KEYS, AND THE ALARM ACTIVATED ON ITS OWN. THE FAILURE PREVENTED THE DRIVER FROM ENTERING OR EXITING THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ANTI-... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY
Aug 6, 2016
Incident date: Aug 4, 2016
DRIVER DOOR WOULD NOT OPEN FROM INSIDE OR OUT. POWER DOOR LOCK WOULD AUTOMATICALLY RE-LOCK ALL DOORS WHEN ATTEMPTING TO OPEN OR UNLOCK WITH KEY OR INSIDE LOCK LEVER. HAD TO CRAWL OVER CONSOLE TO GET IN OR OUT WHEN FINALLY ABLE TO GET PASSENGER FRONT DOOR TO OPEN. FINALLY ABLE TO GET DOOR OPEN BY HOL... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY
Feb 23, 2016
Incident date: Feb 23, 2016
BOTH DRIVER AND PASSENGER DOORS WON'T OPEN, EVEN THOUGH THEY ARE UNLOCKED. THE CAR COULD BE ON OR OFF WITH THIS PROBLEM.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Feb 3, 2016
Incident date: Feb 3, 2016
MY DRIVERS SIDE DOOR AUTOMATIC LOCKS LOCK AND EVEN AFTER MANUALLY UNLOCKING THEM I AM UNABLE TO OPEN THE DOOR. HAVE TO ENTER AND EXIT THE VEHICLE THROUGH PASSENGER DOOR. MANY OTHER KIA OPTIMA OWNERS ONLINE HAVE THE SAME ISSUE. THIS POSES A SERIOUS SAFETY RISK IF I CAN'T EXIT THE VEHICLE IN AN EME... Read more
AIR BAGS
Dec 11, 2015
Incident date: Dec 6, 2015
AIRBAG LIGHT REMAINS ON SHOWING A PROBLEM WITH THE SYSTEM. WAS TOLD COULD BE A SENSOR AND WOULD COST $150 TO DIAGNOSE AND UP TO $2000 TO FIX. NOT WORTH THE COST CONSIDERING THE AGE BUT NEEDS TO BE FIXED FOR SAFETY REASONS
STRUCTURE:BODY
Dec 1, 2015
Incident date: Nov 29, 2015
OUT OF NOWHERE MY DAUGHTER'S CAR DOOR WOULD NOT OPEN, TRAPPING HER INSIDE. IT WON'T OPEN WITH THE KEY OR REMOTE. I CALLED KIA AND THEY SAID MY WARRANTY RAN OUT AND THERE IS NO RECALL DESPITE THIS BEING A COMMON ISSUE-- A VERY DANGEROUS SAFETY ISSUE I MUST SAY, SINCE THE DRIVER AND PASSENGERS COULD P... Read more
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Dec 1, 2015
Incident date: Nov 29, 2015
OUT OF NOWHERE MY DAUGHTER'S CAR DOOR WOULD NOT OPEN, TRAPPING HER INSIDE. IT WON'T OPEN WITH THE KEY OR REMOTE. I CALLED KIA AND THEY SAID MY WARRANTY RAN OUT AND THERE IS NO RECALL DESPITE THIS BEING A COMMON ISSUE-- A VERY DANGEROUS SAFETY ISSUE I MUST SAY, SINCE THE DRIVER AND PASSENGERS COULD P... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY
Nov 13, 2015
Incident date: Nov 1, 2015
THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR WILL NOT OPEN FROM THE INSIDE OR OUTSIDE, WITH OR WITHOUT THE KEY. I'VE TRIED EVERYTHING AND CAN'T GET IT TO OPEN. I HAD TO CRAWL TO THE PASSENGER SIDE AFTER GETTING HOME TO GET OUT.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Oct 24, 2015
Incident date: Oct 18, 2015
SUB FRAME ROT LEADING TO POOR HANDLING , TIRE WEAR, BAD ENGINE PERFORMANCE. THE ROTTED SUPFRAME IS SEPARATING FROM BODY, CAUSING POOR PERFORMANCE. THE CAR IS PERFORMING POORLY AT ALL SPEEDS. NOT SAFE...
STRUCTURE:BODY
Oct 24, 2015
Incident date: Oct 18, 2015
SUB FRAME ROT LEADING TO POOR HANDLING , TIRE WEAR, BAD ENGINE PERFORMANCE. THE ROTTED SUPFRAME IS SEPARATING FROM BODY, CAUSING POOR PERFORMANCE. THE CAR IS PERFORMING POORLY AT ALL SPEEDS. NOT SAFE...
SUSPENSION
Oct 24, 2015
Incident date: Oct 18, 2015
SUB FRAME ROT LEADING TO POOR HANDLING , TIRE WEAR, BAD ENGINE PERFORMANCE. THE ROTTED SUPFRAME IS SEPARATING FROM BODY, CAUSING POOR PERFORMANCE. THE CAR IS PERFORMING POORLY AT ALL SPEEDS. NOT SAFE...
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Sep 27, 2015
Incident date: Feb 1, 2015
FIRST MY PASSENGER SIDE DOOR WOULD NOT UNLOCK (CANNOT GET THE DOOR OPEN AT ALL) - MY PASSENGERS HAVE TO CRAWL IN THROUGH THE WINDOW TO SIT IN PASSENGER SEAT AND MY 78 YEAR OLD GRANDMA CAN'T DO THAT SO SHE HAS TO SIT IN THE BACK. NOW 7 MONTHS LATER, MY DRIVER SIDE DOOR WILL NOT UNLOCK WITH THE KEY A... Read more
SUSPENSION
Sep 24, 2015
Incident date: Nov 4, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRAME WAS RUSTED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Aug 27, 2015
Incident date: Aug 27, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE KEYLESS ENTRY ABILITY FAILED TO WORK FOR THE PAST THREE YEARS. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE REAR DOORS FAILED TO UNLOCK WHEN UTILIZING A KEY OR MANUALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOS... Read more
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Jul 16, 2015
Incident date: May 1, 2013
DRIVER DOOR FAILS TO OPEN. WHEN WILL SOMETHING BE DONE ABOUT THIS? THERE ARE COMPLAINTS EVERYWHERE ONLINE ABOUT THIS EXACT ISSUE ON THIS EXACT MODEL AND OTHER YEARS TOO. I CAN'T GET IN OR OUT OF MY CAR THROUGH THE DRIVER DOOR. THIS IS A HUGE SAFETY CONCERN!
AIR BAGS
Jul 7, 2015
Incident date: Jul 1, 2013
THE VEHICLE HASN'T BEEN IN ANY ACCIDENTS WHICH I AM VERY THANKFUL FOR CONSIDERING THE AIR BAGS MAY OR MAY NOT WORK. THE AIR BAG LIGHT IS ON AND THE DEALERSHIP HAS RESET IT SEVERAL TIMES. THE CAR WON'T PASS INSPECTION WITH THE LIGHT ON. I AM A RECENT COLLEGE GRADUATE ON A FIXED INCOME. I NEED THE CAR... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
Jun 3, 2015
Incident date: Jul 18, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DOOR LOCK FAILED. IN ADDITION, THE DOORS WOULD AUTOMATICALLY LOCK ONCE OPENED WITH THE KEY FOB. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 125,000.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Jun 3, 2015
Incident date: Jul 18, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DOOR LOCK FAILED. IN ADDITION, THE DOORS WOULD AUTOMATICALLY LOCK ONCE OPENED WITH THE KEY FOB. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 125,000.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
Jun 2, 2015
Incident date: May 25, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR FAILED TO OPEN AND CLOSE. AS THE FAILURE PROGRESSED, THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO ENTER AND EXIT THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAI... Read more
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
May 22, 2015
Incident date: May 1, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE DOOR LOCK MALFUNCTIONED AND WOULD NOT UNLOCK, WHICH MADE IT DIFFICULT FOR THE DRIVER TO EXIT THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT ALSO INDICATED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE DOOR WOULD NOT UNLOCK WHEN ATTEMPTING TO EXIT THE VE... Read more
Showing 50 of 306 complaints.
EPA Fuel Economy, 2004 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, 2004 KIA OPTIMA
24 manufacturer communications from 15 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE | 3 |
| 356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY | 3 |
| 060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING | 2 |
| 061110 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS | 1 |
| 090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER | 1 |
| 141100 AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE | 1 |
| 053000 PARKING BRAKE:INDICATOR LIGHT | 1 |
| 123000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS | 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
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
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
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
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 (current) | 1 | 306 | |
| 2003 | 2 | 190 | View |
| 2002 | 3 | 168 | View |
| 2001 | 3 | 231 | View |