2011 KIA OPTIMA

5 recalls, 771 complaints - 341 TSBs - 5/5 safety rating

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

Defect Description

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may... Read more

Consequence

An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy

Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2... Read more

1,730,192 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

Defect Description

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pi... Read more

Consequence

A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Kia has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC172.

71,653 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia Motors America

AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE

Defect Description

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Kia Forte, Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Kia Optima and 2011-2012 Kia Optima Hybrid and Sedona vehicles. In the event of a crash, the air bag control unit (ACU) may short circuit, preventing the frontal air bags and seat belt pretensioners from deploy... Read more

Consequence

If the frontal air bags and seat belt pretensioners are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a vehicle crash that necessitates deployment of these safety systems.

Remedy

Kia will notify owners. For model year 2011 Sedona vehicles, Kia will instruct dealers to verify the ACU part number and, if necessary, install an extension wire harness kit between the ACU Connector and the Vehicle Harness Connector. For all other affected vehicles, Kia will instruct dealers to in... Read more

507,587 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia Motors America

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

Defect Description

Kia Motor Company (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Optima, 2012-2014 Sorento and 2011-2013 Sportage vehicles. Machining errors during the engine manufacturing process may cause premature bearing wear within the engine.

Consequence

Bearing wear may result in the engine seizing, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine assembly, and replace the engine if necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 20, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC147.

618,160 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia Motors America

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH

Defect Description

Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and Sportage, model year 2010-2011 Soul, model year 2008-2011 Optima, model year 2010 Forte, model year 2007-2009 Amanti, and model year 2009 Borrego vehicles. Originally, in April 201... Read more

Consequence

Failure to illuminate the stop lamps during braking or inability to disengage the cruise control could increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, when the ignition is in the 'ON' position, the transmission shifter may be able to be moved out of PARK without first applying the brake. This may lead... Read more

Remedy

Kia will send an interim notification to owners in May 2013. When parts are available, owners will receive a second notification and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge. Owners may contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's recall campaign number is SC098.

980,377 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia Motors Corporation

Complaint Statistics

771 total complaints 42 crashes 43 fires 33 injuries 2 deaths

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ENGINE	242
STEERING	105
EXTERIOR LIGHTING	80
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	63
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	32
POWER TRAIN	32
AIR BAGS	31
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	26
SERVICE BRAKES	23
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	21

Incident date: Jun 3, 2026

I own a 2014 Jeep Wrangler Sahara JKU with approximately 67,000 miles. The vehicle has experienced a failure involving the ABS control module and related braking/stability systems. Current symptoms include: * ABS warning light illuminated * Brake warning light illuminated * Traction control warnin... Read more

Incident date: Mar 23, 2024

The contact owns a 2019 Porsche MACAN. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed an abnormal loud sound. In addition, the contact stated none of the safety features functioned as intended. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a fail... Read more

Incident date: Apr 18, 2026

April 3, 2026: my 2025 Subaru Outback Premium (VIN [XXX] , 2,052 miles) suffered simultaneous failure of multiple safety-critical systems due to corrosion on a CAN bus pin in the driver door wiring harness (Subaru part #XXX) at its dash harness connection, caused by water intrusion into the cabin. T... Read more

Incident date: Mar 3, 2026

The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repai... Read more

Incident date: Jan 15, 2026

Car has been asleep after parking and will not wake up leaving all electrical components dead. GM has not been able to repair and unfortunately this has occurred 5 times including twice the month of March, 2026. Having a car parked in an unsafe location and not being able to move it very unsettlin... Read more

Incident date: Jan 31, 2026

I came home from vacation and found my car completely dead. We took the battery in and ended up changing this. Soon later my cars power steering and dashboard would go in and out. I took it to Mark Kia who believed it to be the alternator, so they replace this. I picked the car up and not even 20 mi... Read more

Incident date: Feb 2, 2026

Car jerks like it’s losing power when pulling off, not sure if it’s transmission issue or engine issue

Incident date: Jun 16, 1986

See attached document for complaint.

Incident date: Jun 20, 2025

During a drive home, while in motion, the tailgate of the vehicle opened on its own. This has occurred after the recall to repair this issue was already performed. I know the tailgate was shut prior to the drive because I back into my parking spot and walk the sidewalk behind my truck prior to s... Read more

Incident date: Jul 23, 2025

Ford Focus 2017 Hatchback causing traffic jams and backup do to low speed, overheating, stalling, jerky shifting, Failure to move or hesitation in the middle of driving, causing the car to stop or slow down in the middle of traffic and blocking exits and cars from moving around the vehicle. Transmis... Read more

Incident date: Jun 14, 2025

Lug studs repeatedly snap at wheel no matter how installed.

Incident date: Jun 14, 2025

Lug studs repeatedly snap at wheel no matter how installed.

Incident date: Jun 14, 2025

I am having problems with my ECU malfunctioning which is causing my catalytic converter my exhaust manifold and my O2 sensors to malfunction. I'm having all the same issues as the recall campaign reference number NTB 12-040 d

Incident date: Apr 20, 2025

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Bronco Sport. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, an alarm was intermittently activated associated with the Forward Collision Avoidance system while there were no other vehicles nor objects nearby. The engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was... Read more

Incident date: Feb 19, 2025

Coolant leak caused head gasket to leak on cylinder which consistently washed the car's spark plug. This caused the cylinder walls to become washed out which has caused significant damage to the car's engine. The consistent washing of the spark plug has caused the car to not be able to accelerate b... Read more

Incident date: Feb 19, 2025

The contact owns a 2019 Nissan Leaf. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V700000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount ... Read more

Incident date: Jul 1, 2023

1/23/25 This is the 3rd time the turbocharger has malfunction within 2 1/2 months and is once again at the dealership service department. Horrible smoke was filling the inside of the car while I was driving and smelled as though something was badly burning. The car had began shaking with minimal dri... Read more

Incident date: Jan 3, 2025

The car comes with proactive driver assist. The system when activated will cause the car to unexpectedly turn the wheel and lunge usually left if the system suspects you are going off of track. It works even on unmarked 2 lane country roads. Very disconcerting and dangerous. My wife was then subseq... Read more

Crash 2 injured

Incident date: Jan 3, 2025

My car is undriveable at night due to headlights malfunctioning. They are so dim they barely illuminate a foot in front of the car.

Incident date: Jan 3, 2025

Crash 2 injured

Incident date: Sep 20, 2024

Intermittent loss of power steering.

Incident date: Sep 23, 2024

The contact owned a 2021 Lexus RX350. The contact stated that while his wife was stopped at a red light, the vehicle was rear-ended by another vehicle traveling around 65 MPH. During the collision, the driver's side seat reclining mechanism failed to hold the seat in an upright position, allowing th... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Sep 24, 2024

High speed collision with a cement truck destroyed most of the front portion of the vehicle. Neither passenger nor driver airbag deployed and seat belts did not lock up, injuring the driver. No warning lights indicating an airbag problem appeared prior to crash. The vehicle is now impounded at towin... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Jul 19, 2024

- What component or system failed or malfunctioned: Code P019185 main fuel rail pressure regulator sensor. -Is it available for inspection upon request? Yes -How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? At highway speeds, sudden lose of power and speed. Unable to accelerate. -Has the pr... Read more

Incident date: Jul 19, 2024

The springs or decks are in poor condition, the material, I want to know if they have a warranty.

Incident date: Jul 19, 2024

I have an actuated door lock on the drivers door for electronic locks. It recently started buzzing and not locking when I lock the doors, all of the other locks work fine. This lock buzzes whether I push the button inside the truck, push the lock button on the fob and also when driving about 5 mil... Read more

Incident date: Aug 30, 2024

The ABS seems to kick in over aggressively. It will kick in and the brake pedal gets all jiggly on slight changes in road situations. For example, going into my driveway, driving over a manhole cover, etc. This has felt dangerous in several instances if I'm slowing down for a red light and the ABS k... Read more

Incident date: Aug 31, 2024

Several warnings popped up on my dash at once: adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, brake system, auto highbeam, collision mitigation system, and road departure mitigation system. The dealer’s Internet is down for at least several days, so they are not able to troubleshoot the problem. Howev... Read more

Incident date: Jun 24, 2024

I have a 2016 GMC 1500 Sierra Denali and experiencing a very scary problem that has suddenly developed with this vehicle. As I am parking or in a slow turn, the vehicle completely looses all power [engine, electronics, brakes, etc..] and the steering wheel jerks out of my hands and then a second o... Read more

Incident date: Jun 24, 2024

Incident date: Jun 26, 2024

The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V334000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that th... Read more

Incident date: Jun 19, 2024

REAR TRUNK AREA LIGHT NOT BRIGHT.

Incident date: Nov 15, 2023

The screen stopped working I couldn’t see the backup camera and the radio wasn’t working and I haven’t been able to open the door or unlock the door. I went and replaced batteries in the remote at dealership and it still does it from time to time. And the screen has gone black several times. I... Read more

Incident date: Jun 19, 2024

When braking, the service trailer brake system message and service stabilitrac message appear on the dash and brake pedal gets soft to hard repeatedly and truck pulls from side to side violently as if one side of the trucks brakes are working and the other side is not.

Incident date: Jun 19, 2024

No problem with my airbag, yet. I am just concerned that it has been over a year and there is no remedy for this problem, I feel like the manufacturer has had ample time to find a solution. I was told to file a complaint and hope someone will address this issue in a timely manner.

Incident date: Sep 25, 2023

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the vehicle failed to exceed 25 MPH or shift out of 1st gear. Additionally, the contact stated that while shifting to reverse(R), the vehicle failed to respond as needed. There was no warning light illuminated. The conta... Read more

Incident date: Nov 14, 2023

Vehicle started to idle oddly on startup. Then a few days later it started to vibrate or cavitate. Check engine light came on. Scheduled for service. Service as of today 05/31/2024, coolant has leaked into engine, engine needs replaced according to service provider. Brought this issue up in 2022 to ... Read more

Incident date: Feb 24, 2024

My vehicle lurches forward at takeoff, up shifts and downshifts hard around 40mph, and occasionally slips when shifting at higher speed. Hundreds of others are experiencing the same issue, and not having it repaired due to cost. Vehicle is at 89k miles, and does is unwilling to work with consumers... Read more

Incident date: Apr 3, 2024

The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Kona. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH up an incline, the vehicle started losing motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the cylinder #3 spark plug. The vehicle was repaired... Read more

Incident date: Apr 3, 2024

The car failed to start three times and stalled twice in 1 day. My new driver, [XXX] , was driving when this occurred. Car was driven to a local mechanic that diagnosed "code P0087 Fuel pressure failure open recall - recommend going to the dealership." The car was then taken to Holler Honda. The... Read more

Incident date: May 20, 2024

This year Tesla has a known "acceleration shutter" due to the front CV joints' angle being too sharp causing premature wear. I have been dealing with this issue since the vehicle was new. Tesla has replaced my CV joints 5-7 times and during the repairs they have left bolts out of the vehicle, left... Read more

Incident date: May 20, 2024

In the past 4 months car stalled on expressway 3 times. on the first occurrence dealer informed us that no error code were found. Second time repair shop (dealer) found body control module error code and replaced the body control module. On the third occurrence we are waiting for repair assessment.... Read more

Incident date: May 20, 2024

There was excessive frame Flexing in the nose section of our 5th wheel. I inspected the lag bolts in the front section of our 5th wheel that hold the wall to the frame and found 4 bolts missing of the 12 that are supposed to be installed. Also, the bolts that were installed were undersized. I also h... Read more

Incident date: May 18, 2024

I filled complaint few days ago and want to update findings. I brought car to Honda dealership due to sticking steering wheel. They right away were aware of the problem and asked the service manager to come speak to me. He said he would take the car for a quick drive around parking lot to verify p... Read more

Incident date: May 17, 2024

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer for routine brake maintenance, and it was discovered that there was an oil pan leak present. No warning lights were illuminated. The dealer informed the contact that the vehicle was out of warranty and th... Read more

Incident date: May 14, 2024

I started having issues with my brakes. I had recently had the front rotors and pads replaced, but I still heard squeeking, and a little fishtailing on my back end. I figured I needed my brakes in the rear checked, so I took it to Pep Boys for a free inspection. The mechanic showed me that my rear c... Read more

Incident date: Apr 26, 2020

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Focus. The contact stated while operating the vehicle the oil pressure warning light activated and a ticking noise was coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was later towed to the local dealer who diagnosed that the timing belt and oil pump drive belt had faile... Read more

Incident date: Apr 16, 2024

The contact owns a 2015 Hyundai Genesis. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V107000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair.... Read more

Incident date: Feb 12, 2024

On [XXX] while driving my vehicle my car would not accelerate over 30 MPH and following that all of my lights came on my dash Emission system problem, ACC, Collision mitigation braking system problem, road departure mitigation problem just to name a few. I proceeded to return home and not drive my c... Read more

Showing 50 of 771 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2011 KIA OPTIMA

2011 Kia Optima 4 DR FWD

Category	Rating
Overall Rating	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash, Driver	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash, Passenger	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Driver	3 / 5 ★★★☆☆
Side Crash, Passenger	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Rollover	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Rollover Risk	9.6%

Safety Technology

Feature	Status
Electronic Stability Control	Standard
Forward Collision Warning	No
Lane Departure Warning	No

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings Program. Ratings are based on crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

EPA Fuel Economy, 2011 KIA OPTIMA

Trim / Engine	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG	Fuel Type	Annual Fuel Cost
2.4L 4-cyl, Automatic 6-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	23.0	33.0	27.0	Regular	$2,300
2.4L 4-cyl, Manual 6-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	24.0	34.0	27.0	Regular	$2,300
2.0L 4-cyl, Automatic 6-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	22.0	33.0	26.0	Regular	$2,400

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, 2011 KIA OPTIMA

341 manufacturer communications from 210 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	50
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	44
350000 EQUIPMENT	32
010000 STEERING	30
060000 ENGINE (PWS)	29
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE	20
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY	12
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL	9

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1803Y/Z) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a

116300 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: KIA GENUINE REMOTE START CONTROL MODULE UPGRADE FOR ANTI-THEFT LOGIC COMPATIBILITY (CS2310) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER RE-NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner re-notification advising that Kia has developed a software upgrade that can be installed on the vehicle to restrict the operation of the vehicle's ignition s

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

116300 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: ANTI-THEFT S/W LOGIC UPGRADE & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2303) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: KIA GENUINE REMOTE START CONTROL MODULE UPGRADE FOR ANTI-THEFT LOGIC COMPATIBILITY (CS2310) - This bulletin provides information to update the software logic in the Kia Genuine Remote Start

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

280100 BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia has developed a software upgrade that can be installed on the vehicle to restrict the operation of the vehicle's ignition system

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: ANTI-THEFT S/W LOGIC UPGRADE & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2303) - This bulletin provides the procedure to upgrade the software logic of the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Modu

100000 POWER TRAIN

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: TRANSMISSION FLUID APPLICATION GUIDE - This bulletin provides information relating to the correct transmission fluid type and fill quantity requirement for each Kia model. A flush is required ONLY when a transmis

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: BEARING CLEARANCE TESTER (BCT) PROCEDURES - This bulletin provides information regarding test procedure of the Bearing Clearance Tester (BCT) Special Service Tool (SST). The SST comes pre-calibrated from the supp

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PITSTOP: INJECTOR HARNESS ROUTING FOR PI1802Y/Z AND PI1803Y/Z ENGINE REPLACEMENTS - This bulletin provides information to address a no-start or hard start with poor running condition after engine replacement under PI1802Y/Z or PI1803Y/Z. So

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION NU/GAMMA/THETA/KAPPA ENGINES - 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. Th

061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1803Y/Z) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin are

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

117000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

This bulletin provides information regarding test procedure of the Bearing Clearance Tester (BCT) Special Service Tool (SST). The SST comes pre-calibrated from the supplier however, in some cases, due to variable shop compressor air pressur

350000 EQUIPMENT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

010000 STEERING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PARTIAL REPAIR OF C-MDPS MOTOR, ECU, WORM GEAR AND/OR STEERING COLUMN HOUSING - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI2002Y/Z) - 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.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

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

160000 STRUCTURE

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN - PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN PI1803_TSB_R6: KNOCK SENSOR DETECTION SYSTEM - ECU - LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (PI1803) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides information

350000 EQUIPMENT

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

010000 STEERING

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION NU/GAMMA/THETA ENGINES - 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 bul

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

350000 EQUIPMENT

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: COMBINATION TSB / SERVICE ACTION: AIR FILTER AND NVLD REPLACEMENT (SA447) - This bulletin provides the procedure to perform an evaporative leak test and replace the Fuel Tank Air Filter, and, if necessary, the N

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

350000 EQUIPMENT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

010000 STEERING

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

010000 STEERING

350000 EQUIPMENT

PITSTOP - BRAKE CALIPER LEAK INSPECTION - This PITSTOP provides information related to a brake caliper fluid/oil substance found on some Kia vehicles, due to possible excess assembly oil applied during assembly.

034510 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN - AUXILIARY CANISTER INSTALLATION AND EVAP LEAKAGE TEST (SC189) - This bulletin provides information on the installation of an auxiliary EVAP canister on some 2011-2015MY Opti

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign (SC189) - Owner Notification Letter - Dear Kia Optima Owner: Kia Motors America, Inc. is conducting a Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign to install an auxiliary evaporative canister in your vehicle to

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign (SC189) - Dealer Principal Memo - Kia Motors America, Inc. is conducting a Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign to install an Auxiliary Canister Kit to improve evaporative system performance on certain 2

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign (SC189) - Dealer Parts and Service Manager Memo - Kia Motors America, Inc. is conducting a Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign to install an Auxiliary Canister Kit to improve evaporative system performa

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign (SC189) - Completion Label

355100 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign (SC189) - Completion Label

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign (SC189) - Proof of Completion Card

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign (SC189) - Questions and Answers

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN - ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1803Y/Z_Rev3) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin p

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TSB: PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1803Y/Z) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin p

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: SERVICE ACTION: WIRING SIGNAL INTERFERENCE CHECK & ENGINE NOISE INSPECTION (SA379) - CLOSED - SUPERSEDED BY PI1802YZ/1803YZ.

010000 STEERING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: STEERING GEAR YOKE PLUG AND ASSEMBLY REPLACEMENT - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides the procedure to replace the steering gear box yoke plug and assembly o

100000 POWER TRAIN

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: - TRANSMISSION FLUID APPLICATION GUIDE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides information relating to the correct transmission fluid type and fill quantity requ

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: TSB - ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1803Y/Z) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information.This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin pr

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: TSB - ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1803W/X) - CLOSED - This bulletin has been superseded by PI1803Y/Z.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: TSB - ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1803Y/Z) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin p

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: TSB - REV 5 -KNOCK SENSOR DETECTION SYSTEM - ECU LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (PI1803) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides information related to a software update t

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: HALOGEN HEAD LAMP LOW BEAM BULB CONNECTOR REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides information regarding the procedure to repair the bulb connector on some 2010MY~ vehicles listed on the table below, which may exhibi

010000 STEERING

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

PITSTOP 629: ELECTRICAL A/C COMPRESSOR PARTIAL REPAIR PARTS AVAILABILITY - This Pitstop provides information regarding partial repair of the Air Conditioning (A/C) compressor assembly on some 2011MY~ Optima (TF HEV, JF HEV/PHEV/EV), Soul (P

350000 EQUIPMENT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Owner Letter - PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN (PI1803) - *** THIRD NOTICE *** - Dear Kia Optima Owner: Kia Motors America, Inc. is conducting an important Product Improvement Campaign to perform a software update on all 2011-2013 MY Optima v

010000 STEERING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PARTIAL REPAIR OF C-MDPS MOTOR, ECU AND/OR STEERING COLUMN HOUSING - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information.This bulletin provides information regarding the partial repair of the Motor D

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN - PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN PI1803_TSB_R4: KNOCK SENSOR DETECTION SYSTEM - ECU - LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (PI1803) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides informatio

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

TSB: PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN PI1803W/X_R5: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1803W/X) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Servi

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

010000 STEERING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN TSB084_R3: PARTIAL REPAIR OF C-MDPS MOTOR, ECU AND/OR STEERING COLUMN HOUSING - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information.This bulletin provides information regarding the partial repair of t

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: KNOCK SENSOR DETECTION SYSTEM - ECU LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (PI1803). This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides information related to a software update to the Engine Co

011000 STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR

TSB: ECU UPGRADE - STEERING LOGIC IMPROVEMENT - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides information related to the MDPS ECU software upgrade for some 2012-2014MY Optima (QF), produced from Au

010000 STEERING

TSB: REPLACEMENT OF C-MDPS MOTOR, ECU AND/OR STEERING COLUMN HOUSING - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides information regarding the partial repair of the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDP

012000 STEERING:COLUMN

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TSB: TF/TF-HEV HEADLAMP INSPECTION AND/OR REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides the procedure to inspect and/or replace the headlamp assembly on some 2011-2013 MY Optima (TF, TF-HEV) vehicles produced from August 12, 2010 to December 12, 201

121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

wty014_OWNR: This document is the Owner Notification Letter advising the customers of the Warranty Extension on the Headlamp Assembly on the 2011-2013 MY Optima and Optima HEV vehicles.

121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

wty014_OWNR: This document is the Owner Notification Letter advising the customers of the Warranty Extension on the Headlamp Assembly on the 2011-2013 MY Optima and Optima HEV vehicles.

Showing 100 of 341 bulletins.

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.

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2011

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

RQ, Closed , Model Year: 2011

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... ons of violations of law in connection with RQ17-003. NHTSA?s assertions included that Kia may be liable for civil penalties on multiple grounds, including that Recall No. 17V-224 was untimely and Kia?s recall report contained certain inaccuracies.Under the Consent Order, Kia agreed to a total civil penalty of $70,000,000. The total civil penalty included a payment of $27,000,000 as a Non-Deferred Amount.Kia also agreed to a sum of $27,000,000 as an Abeyance Amount to be deferred and held in abeyance pending its satisfactory completion, as reasonably determined by NHTSA, of the requirements of the Consent Order.Kia also agreed to a $16,000,000 Performance Obligation Amount to be expended by Kia to fulfill specified Safety Data Analytics Infrastructure obligations. The Consent Order also includes other terms designed to enhance Kia?s safety practices, and requires Kia to retain a Third-Party Auditor who directly reports to NHTSA.Other than RQ17-003, the Consent Order is not intended to affect any other current or future investigation of NHTSA which may involve vehicles equipped with Theta II GDI engines. In particular, Engineering Analysis (EA) 21-003 (which is upgraded from Preliminary Evaluation (PE) 19-004) continues NHTSA?s evaluation of certain performance and design issues relating to the Theta II and other engines.Nothing in the Consent Order discharges Kia from any obligation to comply with the Safety Act or regulations thereunder, including the obligation to carry out recalls in accordance with the law, and to initiate a recall upon any future determination by Kia, or upon any finally adjudicated order from NHTSA, that vehicles equipped with Theta II GDI engines contain a defect related to motor vehicle safety or do not comply with an applicable FMVSS.This RQ is closed. Closure of this RQ has no bearing on the terms of the Consent Order, including Kia's ongoing performance obligations, and does not represent a determination by the agency as to Kia's performance under the Consent Order to date.Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2006

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

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2001

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

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2001

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 (current)	5	771
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	2	190	View
2002	3	168	View
2001	3	231	View

Other KIA Models

Model	Recalls	Complaints
SORENTO	188	13,593	View
SPORTAGE	165	6,601	View
SEDONA	118	3,350	View
TELLURIDE	70	2,186	View
SOUL	66	7,233	View
SORENTO HYBRID	62	159	View
SOUL EV	62	50	View
FORTE	56	3,494	View

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

2011 KIA OPTIMA

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2011 KIA OPTIMA

Safety Technology

EPA Fuel Economy, 2011 KIA OPTIMA

Technical Service Bulletins, 2011 KIA OPTIMA

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, KIA OPTIMA

KIA OPTIMA - All Years Overview

KIA OPTIMA - Year by Year

Other KIA Models