2013 KIA OPTIMA

9 recalls, 1,872 complaints - 356 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.

STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS

Defect Description

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2013 Optima vehicles. The right and left headliner plates may not be secured properly, which can result in the plates detaching in the event of a side curtain air bag deployment.

Consequence

A plate that detaches during a crash may strike an occupant, increasing their risk of injury.

Remedy

Dealers will secure the headliner plates, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 26, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC245.

257,998 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia Motors America

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

Defect Description

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Optima vehicles that were previously repaired under NHTSA recall number 20V-100. The low pressure fuel hose may be damaged, or missing heat-protective tape, which can result in a fuel leak.

Consequence

A fuel leak can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the low pressure fuel hose, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 2, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-33-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC228.

72,848 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia Motors America

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

Defect Description

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles previously recalled under recall 20V-519. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.

Consequence

An electrical short in the HECU increases the risk of a fire while parked or driving.

Remedy

Owners are advised to park outside and away from other vehicles and structures until the recall repair is completed. Dealers will install a new multi-fuse, and inspect the HECU for leaks, replacing the HECU if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 2, 2021. This... Read more

440,370 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia Motors America

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

Defect Description

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.

Consequence

If the HECU short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.

Remedy

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the HECU for leaking brake fluid and replace the HECU if necessary, free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside and away from other vehicles and structures until the recall repair is completed. The recall began October 20, 2020. Owners may co... Read more

440,370 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia Motors America

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

Defect Description

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Optima vehicles equipped with 2.4L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) or 2.0L GDI Turbo engines. The low pressure fuel hose may deteriorate and crack over time due to heat generated within the engine compartment.

Consequence

If the fuel hose cracks, a fuel leak can occur, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Kia will notify Owners, and Dealers will inspect the low pressure fuel hose for damage or leaking, replacing it as necessary. If no damage or leaking is found, a heat-protective tape will be installed. Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began June 12, 2020. Owners may contact K... Read more

141,774 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia Motors America

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

Complaint Statistics

1,872 total complaints 79 crashes 128 fires 65 injuries 3 deaths

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ENGINE	524
STEERING	203
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	180
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	146
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	102
POWER TRAIN	100
STRUCTURE:BODY	87
AIR BAGS	73
SERVICE BRAKES	65
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	49

Incident date: Jul 7, 2026

The steering column From the car has diminished causing dangerous shaking on highway at high speeds

Incident date: Mar 1, 2023

The contact owned a 2013 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed on the main road of a T-intersection, the contact blacked out before another vehicle crashed into the front passenger's side of the vehicle. The contact stated that the front of the vehicle sustained s... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Dec 31, 1969

The contact owns a 2017 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NTHSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure. The local dealer was contacted. The contac... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2026

Always driving east my cruise control, lane keeping assist and other safety systems stop working. Cars behind me are not aware of my sudden slow down. The alert said to clean the plastic H in the grill. I have been to two Honda dealers and the problem persists. Honda corporate in California calls it... Read more

Incident date: Apr 19, 2026

The vehicle was making a vibration in the center of the car. I took it to the dealership and they said it was the ptu but that it's not part of the recall.

Incident date: May 9, 2026

Faulty forward facing camera affixed internally on windshield. Adaptive Cruise Control will not function. Lane Keeping Assist will not function. Collision Mitigation Braking may be unavailable. Vehicle detects oncoming traffic in opposing lane as a potential collision, causing braking system to en... Read more

Incident date: Apr 30, 2026

While driving, the vehicle suddenly began knocking severely, smoking, leaking oil, and then shut off unexpectedly without adequate warning. This created a serious safety hazard and near fire risk. The engine assembly failed catastrophically. Dealership inspection documented: connecting rod punctur... Read more

Incident date: Apr 30, 2026

low pressure fuel pump in fuel tank failed. This part was already repaired from previous recall and failed again. Error code P0087. Vehicle shuttered and stopped in traffic. Broken bits of fuel pump were left in gas tank.

Incident date: Apr 30, 2026

I was driving on the freeway and a system warning came up “check hybrid system” and the car went limp. Thankfully I was able to get off safely from the momentum this time, but it has stopped in the middle of the street before. This is the second time it’s shut down this year. I took it in last... Read more

Incident date: Dec 31, 1969

“Required Engine Maintenance- Visit Your Dealer” message came on the dash. After doing some research and troubleshooting; it appeared to be the coolant bypass valve that everyone has had issues with. The problem was then confirmed with a local provider who instructed us to contact the dealer to ... Read more

Incident date: Apr 30, 2026

I removed the drive side seat belt bolt in order to remove the pillar it is mounted to and found the bolt extremely hard to turn and ultimately somewhat stripped upon removal. The bolt remains defiant in re-installation procedure. The passenger side was removed without stripping but did attempt to... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2025

Front Differential - Repair/Replacement on 2021 BMW X5 M50i. Extreme safety issue. Ironically failed right after 50k warranty. Currently at 50742 miles. Brought vehicle in 6 different occasions in the last year and a half. One time for a similar issue (approx. 1 year ago) and instead of addressing t... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2025

CUSTOMER STATES THE CHARGING SYSTEM LIGHT IS ON AND THERE IS A STARTING SYSTEM FAULT, PLEASE ADVISE VERIFIED CONCERN. RETRIEVED OTCS ANO P0A1E, U0120 PRESENT IN PCM. CLEARED ores AND LIGHT STAYED ON ANO BOTH RETURNED. CUSTOMER LEFT VEHICLE FOR DIAGNOSIS. PULLED VEHICLE INTO BAY AND WARNING LIGHTS O... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2025

Vehicle shut down while driving. Stop safely now, red triangle on IC, and engine disabled. PCM code P1A0C:00:28 Hybrid Powertrain Control Module - Engine Disabled.

Incident date: Apr 29, 2025

The coolant bypass valve failed and the car is a 2021 Rav 4 LE. I called Toyota and according to the VIN it is not covered for this type of repair. I see quite a few cars have had this same issue, all Toyota's. It was inspected and repaired at a local Toyota Dealership but I had to pay out of pocket... Read more

Incident date: Apr 21, 2026

My vehicle is breaking on its own. There are other vehicles riding behind me and it just stops out of nowhere. I think that's dangerous. I can be driving and I'm thinking I'm OK driving in a vehicle. Just just hit on break. I don't know where I just stops and while I'm driving and I think that's ver... Read more

Incident date: Apr 10, 2026

I am experiencing ongoing issues with my 2023 Lexus RX500h related to the powertrain/transmission. The vehicle has exhibited abnormal shifting behavior, including hesitation, jerking, and inconsistent acceleration. At times, the vehicle does not respond smoothly when accelerating, which raises safet... Read more

Incident date: Apr 10, 2026

Good morning, I am writing to formally escalate a serious and unresolved safety concern involving my vehicle and to follow up on my existing case (Case #XXX). On April 22, 2026, while driving on the highway at approximately 55 mph, my vehicle suddenly performed a hard stop as if it detected an imm... Read more

Incident date: Apr 10, 2026

Incident date: Mar 3, 2026

The back up camera cuts out randomly. Sometimes mid back up. It has been recalled for quite sometime and there is still no remedy available

Incident date: Jan 1, 2026

5 alerts came on the dash stating lane keeping assist problem , collision mitigation problem , auto high beam problem, forward collision problem and brake system warning. All safety features on my vehicle have failed. I

Incident date: Feb 20, 2026

An “Emissions System Problem” warning message appeared intermittently on the dashboard while driving. The warning light would sometimes turn off after restarting the vehicle, but the issue persisted in the vehicle’s stored diagnostic system. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer, wher... Read more

Incident date: Mar 6, 2026

There is a recall for the displacement of my 3rd row headrest. I have small children and are in the 3rd row daily. Also, although my 3rd row is under recall for mechanical issues, my 3rd row did malfunction and close on items in the 3rd row on 4/5/26. The sensors didn't detect that there were larger... Read more

Incident date: Apr 13, 2026

I am reporting unresolved safety recalls and unreasonable delay in repair for my 2023 Ford Bronco (VIN: [XXX] ). This vehicle currently has two open safety recalls issued by Ford Motor Company • NHTSA Recall 25V721 (issued October 2025) – seat frame defect that may increase injur... Read more

Incident date: Apr 13, 2026

Incident date: Apr 13, 2026

Brake pedal loses pressure and disengages with brakes. Traction light, maintenance light, hybrid system warning message, check brakes message and parking brake intermittently turns on and off. I called Kirby Kia of Ventura a few weeks ago and let them know about my issue with the car. I explained th... Read more

Incident date: Mar 24, 2026

The contact owns a 2017 Kia Niro. The contact stated that while driving 60 MPH on the highway, the vehicle jolted and shook abnormally. The electrical system warning light illuminated, and the vehicle lost partial power. The engine and hybrid warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was coasted ... Read more

Incident date: Apr 6, 2026

Upon coming to a complete stop, the engine has failed to reengage causing the car to stall in traffic. The car has restarted after being turned off and restarting but with traffic moving all around us and cars behind honking because they think we are failing to go. If we happened to stop in an inter... Read more

Incident date: Jul 27, 2025

The contact owns a 2019 Honda CR-V. While the contact’s son was driving at an undisclosed speed, several unknown warning lights illuminated with an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The driver depressed the accelerator pedal, but the vehicle failed to exceed 15 MPH. The failure persisted whi... Read more

Incident date: Jul 27, 2025

My car for the last 2 years has had multiple malfunctions with misfiring and replacement of head gaskets, pistons and more. Not to mention consistence oil concerns. On two occasions my family and I had to have the vehicle towed home over 200 miles because the car was not driving well. I have a [XXX]... Read more

Incident date: Mar 6, 2026

The high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failed internally while I was driving at night, causing the vehicle to suddenly stall and shut off completely while my children were in the vehicle. This resulted in an immediate loss of power and created a dangerous situation in traffic. The failure caused metal ... Read more

Incident date: Mar 6, 2026

I have a 2022 Tiguan SEL R-Line with constant beeping of Lane assist not available.The steering wheel was replaced before but now i'm no longer in warranty but the lane assist not available is still happening. there is a NHTSA Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2070207/1 but it only applies for warran... Read more

Incident date: Mar 10, 2026

The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle decelerated unintendedly. The contact stated that the brake was inoperable, and the contact was unable to properly stop the vehicle. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle wa... Read more

Incident date: Mar 19, 2026

My car is just 3 years old has reduced power warning and continuous engine light on. Despite several reminders, calls to Nissan Marietta Dealership as well as Nissan Consumer Affairs, issue has not been resolved. My car is not in a driving condition and they have wrongly changed the battery and cha... Read more

Incident date: Mar 19, 2026

Power steering went out all of a sudden

Incident date: Mar 19, 2026

Incident date: Mar 10, 2026

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2022 Toyota Prius. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 29,909. At the time of the registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 173,000.

Incident date: Mar 10, 2026

The contact owns a 2013 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving 75 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power. The accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle eventually stalled on the side of the road. The key, battery, oil, and engine warning lights were illuminated. There was an abnor... Read more

Incident date: Mar 10, 2026

While driving in traffic the vehicle suddenly began to sputter and lose power with check engine light flashing on the dash board. I was able to pull over and limp the car the one mile to my home on side streets. I parked the vehicle and called for a tow truck to tow the vehicle to my local dealersh... Read more

Incident date: Mar 10, 2026

I am reporting a defect involving my **2025 Buick Encore GX AWD manufactured by General Motors. Within two days of purchasing the vehicle, the dashboard displayed the warning message “Service Charging System – Vehicle May Stall.” I contacted the dealership on the third day of ownership and was... Read more

Incident date: Mar 10, 2026

On March 4, 2026, my wife was driving the vehicle when she suddenly lost power steering. The steering wheel became extremely difficult to turn, creating a dangerous situation that could have resulted in serious injury. She was able to safely pull over and contact me. I carefully drove the vehicle ho... Read more

Incident date: Mar 5, 2026

I purchased this vehicle new in June 2025. About a month after the dealer service inspection, the vehicle suddenly would not start at all. The key fob sometimes cannot unlock the door, and I have to use the backup key to open it. After entering the vehicle, the engine will not start. I previously br... Read more

Incident date: Mar 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while reversing, the back over prevention camera failed to operate as needed, with a black screen displayed. The failure prevented the driver from seeing obstacles behind the vehicle, creating a safety hazard. The contact received notifica... Read more

Incident date: Jan 2, 2026

The car shut off unexpectedly while driving down a main road. There was first a power train warning, suggesting taking the car to the dealer and to drive cautiously. Then the car suddenly had an emergency power failure and the car shut completely off. Luckily I was able to coast into a subdivision.... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2025

The instrument cluster and driver information center is completely blank, and none of the steering wheel controls are operating. Vehicle starts and runs normally, but no indication of speed, turn signals, headlights, gas level, etc.

Incident date: May 1, 2025

Currently has a whine and grinding noise from transmission. Toyota dealers would not replace transmission and Toyota USA was contatacted. Transmission, but not the torque converter was replaced at ~53,000 miles. Noises returned ~10,000 miles after replacment and was advised sound is normal. Noises g... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2025

Our car just turned over 91,000 miles. The check engine light came on so I had spark plugs replaced. The repair shop noticed that our coolant level was way down so they ran a scope into the cylinders. They found fluids leaking into the #4 cylinder. I took car to Ford dealer and they confirmed wat... Read more

Incident date: Feb 2, 2026

The airbag was stolen from my 2025 Honda Accord SE without breaking the window. The door lock was broken easily and the airbag removed quickly. This is a serious safety and security concern. A person can steal a critical safety component without major damage. I am financially stressed because the ve... Read more

Incident date: Feb 2, 2026

The 6.2 L engine on my 2017 Cadillac Escalade failed at around 97,000 miles. I took it to Heritage Cadillac dealership for a diagnostic check and had it repaired. The engine had a broken engine rod and lifters damage to the engine. I had the engine repaired at the dealership but a few weeks later I ... Read more

Showing 50 of 1,872 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2013 KIA OPTIMA

2013 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, 2013 KIA OPTIMA

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

CO2 Emissions: 340.0 g/mile (Midsize Cars)

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2013 KIA OPTIMA

356 manufacturer communications from 216 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	53
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	50
350000 EQUIPMENT	37
010000 STEERING	30
060000 ENGINE (PWS)	29
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE	20
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY	13
100000 POWER TRAIN	8

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

116000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION

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

119800 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:HYBRID MANAGEMENT

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: HIGH-VOLTAGE BATTERY SAFETY PLUG FUSE INSPECTION AND REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides information associated with the "Hybrid System Warranty Extension Program" (WTY029) to inspect and, if necessary, replace

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

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

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

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

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

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

350000 EQUIPMENT

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

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

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

350000 EQUIPMENT

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

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) - Questions and Answers

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

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

355100 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign (SC189) - Completion Label

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign (SC189) - Completion Label

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) - 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

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

350000 EQUIPMENT

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

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

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

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

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

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

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

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

Showing 100 of 356 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 (current)	9	1,872
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	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

2013 KIA OPTIMA

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2013 KIA OPTIMA

Safety Technology

EPA Fuel Economy, 2013 KIA OPTIMA

Technical Service Bulletins, 2013 KIA OPTIMA

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, KIA OPTIMA

KIA OPTIMA - All Years Overview

KIA OPTIMA - Year by Year

Other KIA Models