2016 KIA OPTIMA

5 recalls, 1,079 complaints - 318 TSBs - 5/5 safety rating

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH

Defect Description

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Rio, 2016-2018 Optima, 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. The trunk latch base may crack, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Mot... Read more

Consequence

A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the trunk latch base subassembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC278.

319,436 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:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Defect Description

Kia Motors America (Kia) has recalled one 2016 Optima vehicle. In this vehicle, the end seal for the driver's frontal air bag inflator may not have been properly installed, possibly resulting in reduced inflation of the frontal air bag in the event of a crash.

Consequence

In the event of a crash, an air bag that does not inflate fully increases the risk of injury.

Remedy

The affected vehicle was remedied on January 10, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC143.

1 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia Motors America

POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT

Defect Description

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016 Kia Optima vehicles manufactured November 13, 2015, to April 23, 2016 and equipped with a 2.4l engine. The right front axle driveshaft may crack and fail.

Consequence

If the driveshaft cracks and separates from the vehicle, it will not be able to move forward. Additionally, if the parking brake is not applied upon exiting the vehicle, the vehicle may roll. Either scenario can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front axle driveshaft, free of charge. The recall began November 2016. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC139.

12,214 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia Motors America

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL

Defect Description

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016 Kia Optima vehicles manufactured November 10, 2015, to February 12, 2016. In these vehicles, a chemical enhancer required for the for the second stage deployment of the driver's frontal air bag was not loaded, resulting in the second sta... Read more

Consequence

If the second stage air bag does not deploy it increases the risk of injury or death.

Remedy

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began on May 6, 2016. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC131.

17 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia Motors America

Complaint Statistics

1,079 total complaints 61 crashes 24 fires 46 injuries 2 deaths

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ENGINE	257
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	126
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	104
POWER TRAIN	101
STEERING	50
SERVICE BRAKES	47
EXTERIOR LIGHTING	44
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	44
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	31
AIR BAGS	30

Incident date: Aug 4, 2026

Vehicle was purchased in 2023. AC blower failure occurred for the first time in June 2024 and was repaired by PepBoys. On 4/2/2025 the ve3hicle had an active recall event when the engine seized on the highway because of a faulty oil pump/filter, Engine was replaced 4/17/2025 under that recall. Kia a... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Aug 4, 2026

Crash

Incident date: Aug 4, 2026

Crash

Incident date: May 2, 2026

While driving at highway speeds on the freeway in San Diego, the engine of my 2016 Kia Optima catastrophically seized without warning. I instantly lost all power steering, brake assist, and electrical power, creating an immediate life-threatening emergency. The vehicle was towed to a Kia dealer. Cor... Read more

Incident date: May 2, 2026

Incident date: Aug 10, 2026

Blower motor is drawing excessive electricity, which in turn burns the fuse and junction pin, which in turn can start a fire in the car. Kia of Irvine suggested redoing all electrical wiring in the car, but that will not solve the issue. As soon as you turn on the AC, the blower motor will use so m... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2022

Window falls into the door. The rear two windows have been repaired 3 times. They are currently both broken again along with the front drivers side. I currently have three windows being help up by tape. They are taped to the frame of the door to stop the window from falling into the door. I don't k... Read more

Incident date: Jul 24, 2026

The contact owns a 2018 Honda CR-V. The contact stated that while driving 30 MPH, the brakes independently activated. In addition, the contact stated that the brake pedal was firm while depressed and the tires squealed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the failure was not duplicated. Th... Read more

Incident date: Jul 24, 2026

The 6.2L L87 V8 engine in my 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe Premier RST suffered a catastrophic internal component failure while operating. The engine experienced a sudden, severe internal mechanical breakdown involving the crankshaft or connecting rod bearings, completely disabling the powertrain.This failur... Read more

Incident date: Sep 22, 2025

The contact owns a 2020 Ford F-550. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, it was discovered that there was metal deposits inside the system causing the fuel pump failure. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V957000 (Fuel System, Diesel). The dealer was co... Read more

Incident date: Sep 15, 2025

The contact owns a 2026 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 MPH in the rain, the front windshield wipers suddenly stopped operating. The front power windows failed to operate properly and failed to go up or down. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle... Read more

Incident date: Jul 1, 2026

We started driving and after driving the tire pressure light went on. We stopped checked all tires pressure everything was fine. Then about 2 or 3 hours later every light on my dash board lit up. Check Engine Light: Brake System Light: Traction Control Light: Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS) Light: Adapti... Read more

Incident date: Apr 13, 2026

The contact owns a 2025 Hyundai Tucson. While the contact’s son was driving approximately 55 MPH on a three-lane highway, the brakes locked up. While attempting to move the vehicle to the shoulder, the driver lost control of the vehicle and struck the guardrail and rolled over several times. The a... Read more

Crash

Incident date: May 23, 2026

The transmission seems to be sluggish. When making a rolling left turn around 25 to 30 mph after no power to the transmission, when coming out of the turn the trans seems to spin and then slam into gear. I mean slam where everyone in the vehicle says "what the hell was that" kind of slam. This ha... Read more

Incident date: Jan 10, 2026

The contact owns a 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4XE. The contact stated that while driving 60 MPH, the vehicle drove over a pothole in the road, and the steering wheel started shaking abnormally and pulled out of control. The contact stated that the vehicle was serviced by the local dealer, but the failure pe... Read more

Incident date: Jun 15, 2026

Often while driving the car loses power as if the power went off or I ran out of gas,,, studder for a moment then pick up power to continue to drive is the best way I can describe it. Immediately after I get a notification on the dashboard saying maintenance something

Incident date: Jan 10, 2026

Following a GM-initiated over-the-air (OTA) software update on May 18, 2026, my vehicle's windshield wipers became permanently inoperable — stuck in the "on" position with no ability to turn them off. This is not a gradual mechanical failure or wear-and-tear issue. The malfunction began immediatel... Read more

Incident date: Jan 10, 2026

Rear window area is leaking into cab of truck. Appears to be coming from above the rear window. Has lead to water intrusion and possible electrical issues within window motor and nearby. Headliner area is also getting wet/holding water.

Incident date: Jun 4, 2026

I was traveling at highway speeds in active, high-velocity traffic when my vehicle suffered a sudden, catastrophic mechanical failure that nearly resulted in a severe multi-car accident. Without any warning, the vehicle completely lost its ability to accelerate, flatly refusing to pick up speed or m... Read more

Incident date: Jun 4, 2026

It’s put me and my family at risk yes the problem is confirmed by mechanic every time when the problem occurs I get warnings to stop driving and turn off the car

Incident date: Jun 4, 2026

Incident date: Apr 23, 2026

My 2015 C300 W205 failed at its state inspection today due to a rusted through rear subframe. I understand that the W204 warranty on this was extended to 20 years/unlimited miles but the W205 was not. I have contacted Mercedes customer care for a potential goodwill repair since this seems to be a k... Read more

Incident date: Apr 23, 2026

on saturday [XXX] while driving on the highway my car lost propulsion and started slowing down even after i was pressing on the acceleration/gas pedal all the way. It happened 3 times within an hour's time frame the car refused to speed up and would stop driving. I was in immediate risk as well as t... Read more

Incident date: Apr 23, 2026

The brake pump and actuator on my 2015 prius has been faulty and the repair was apparently covered under the customer support program but it expired in December. I had no knowledge of it and when I took my car in to a toyota dealership, no one told me about about the profram but told me that they ne... Read more

Incident date: May 27, 2026

The 2012-2015 Dodge Journey was previously subject to an NHTSA recall for an electronic stability control module defect producing similar ABS warning and brake-related symptoms. The 2016 model year was not included in that recall. Other 2016 Dodge Journey owners have reported the same symptoms to co... Read more

Incident date: May 27, 2026

Incident date: Jul 29, 2025

Clunking or Looseness in the Outer Tie Rod. The issue is related to TSB-B23-019 Bulletin. The exact same issue is occurring that has happened with years 2022-2023. I have had at the dealership to fix the issue and they never mentioned the outer tie rod cotter pin or castle nut loosening.

Incident date: May 24, 2026

Kia has common problems on the airbags even tho my air bags is good but I want to still check it

Incident date: May 24, 2026

The vehicle suddenly began vibrating noticeably when idling and at low speeds. About 30 minutes after this started happening a warning lamp lit up. We drove the vehicle about 2 miles to a local auto parts store to get an initial computer diagnosis of the issue. The test resulted in a code of "P03... Read more

Incident date: Oct 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2025 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the Super Cruise or Cruise Control would not deactivate when the On/Off button was depressed, causing the steering wheel to flash red and the vehicle to suddenly shift down in velocity. A messa... Read more

Incident date: May 9, 2026

The driver-side seat belt buckle/receptacle failed during normal use. There was no collision, impact, or misuse involved. While using the seat belt as intended, the buckle assembly separated/broke unexpectedly, causing the seat belt to no longer function properly. This appears to be a failure of a ... Read more

Incident date: May 9, 2026

My wheel on front driver's side is wobbly and I just decided to look up for any recalls and I'm lucky we didn't have a major accident I drive the interstate almost daily also I want to report that my door handles have had to be replaced 6 times since we've bought the car in 2019

Incident date: May 9, 2026

The contact owns a 2017 Ford Edge. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: (25V544000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were unavailable. The contact stated that the... Read more

Incident date: Apr 13, 2026

The vehicle experienced repeated failures involving the Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System, and Check Engine system. Warning indicators for the ESC, traction control, and check engine illuminated while operating the vehicle. The issue has occurred on two separate occasions. ... Read more

Incident date: Apr 13, 2026

Steering is ‘sticky’ at highway speeds, doesnt hold on center, steering wheel gives impression of being stuck.

Incident date: Apr 13, 2026

The contact owns a 2024 Acura MDX. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, a loud banging sound was heard coming from the vehicle. The contact discovered that the sunroof had unexpectedly shattered. Additionally, while driving at an undisclosed speed, a supplemental restraint ... Read more

Incident date: Apr 29, 2026

Safety recall issued in November 2025 for the engine cover. The dealership removed the faulty engine cover for safety reasons. VW customer care informed me that the part is not in production. Under federal recall law, manufacturers must provide a remedy within a "reasonable time". Seven months with ... Read more

Incident date: Apr 22, 2026

Third brake light has failed and needs to be replaced.

Incident date: Apr 18, 2026

The contact owns a 2015 Dodge Dart. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the brake pedal was depressed and the vehicle started rolling forward. The contact depressed the brake pedal more forcefully and shifted the gear shifter into park; however, the vehicle continued rolling forwar... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Jan 15, 2026

Warning Passenger Air Bag OFF Light is lit with a passenger in the seat. Diagnostics run by ASE repair shop & with no error codes displaying. Moving passenger seat forward & back, shut the light off & on. Concerned that passenger Air Bag may not deploy when the light is on. Air bag sensor in part of... Read more

Incident date: Jan 15, 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 1, 2026

*Engine failure-needs a new engine *The car turned off while I was driving it on the freeway, I managed to steer the car to the shoulder, almost caused an extremely dangerous accident due to traffic and speed limit. *Took it to a Hyundai dealership in Irving, TX 3x about 3 years about excessive o... Read more

Incident date: Mar 1, 2026

The contact owns a 2025 GMC Sierra 3500 used for hauling a 2026 Aluminum Trailer equipped with a DeeMaxx: DBI-7K-MAXX-SS-KIT brake kit. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake caliper bracket detached due to insufficient generic quality bolts included in the brake ki... Read more

Incident date: Sep 4, 2023

The contact owns a 2023 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving approximately 7 MPH and slowing to park his vehicle, the contact depressed the brake pedal and the vehicle kept moving forward. The contact stated he crashed into the front end of a vehicle parked in front of his vehicl... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Sep 4, 2023

On April 13, 2026, I experienced two safety-related malfunctions while driving my 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 LTZ on a two-lane highway in light rain. At approximately 6:24:05 PM, the windshield wipers stopped in the upright position for about 2–3 seconds while the vehicle was in motion, causin... Read more

Incident date: Apr 7, 2026

The contact owns a 2025 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact became aware that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V212000 (Back Over Prevention) through Turo Car Rental Marketplace; however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while reversing, the r... Read more

Incident date: Mar 20, 2026

The contact owns a 2022 Safe Haven 12-foot Flatbed Trailer. The contact stated that while driving approximately 10 MPH and towing the unloaded trailer with a 2024 GMC Sierra 2500, while slowing down to make a right turn, the trailer detached from the tow hitch ball. The contact stated that there wer... Read more

Incident date: Mar 20, 2026

We are getting an airbag warning intermittently. It happens most often when our daughter (about 80-90lbs) is in the passenger seat. I see that the 2020-2022 Accords have an active safety recall for the sensor in the passenger seat but our dealer (performance kings Honda - Cincinnati) is saying there... Read more

Showing 50 of 1,079 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2016 KIA OPTIMA

2016 Kia Optima 4 DR FWD

Category	Rating
Overall Rating	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash, Driver	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash, Passenger	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Side Crash	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Driver	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Passenger	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Rollover	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Rollover Risk	9.8%

Safety Technology

Feature	Status
Electronic Stability Control	Standard
Forward Collision Warning	Optional
Lane Departure Warning	Optional

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

EPA Fuel Economy, 2016 KIA OPTIMA

Trim / Engine	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG	Fuel Type	Annual Fuel Cost
1.6L 4-cyl, Automatic (AM7) (Front-Wheel Drive)	28.0	37.0	31.0	Regular	$2,000
2.0L 4-cyl, Automatic (S6) (Front-Wheel Drive)	22.0	31.0	25.0	Regular	$2,450
2.4L 4-cyl, Automatic (S6) (Front-Wheel Drive)	24.0	34.0	28.0	Regular	$2,200

CO2 Emissions: 286.0 g/mile (Large Cars)

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

Technical Service Bulletins, 2016 KIA OPTIMA

318 manufacturer communications from 196 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	52
350000 EQUIPMENT	33
010000 STEERING	18
060000 ENGINE (PWS)	17
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY	15
100000 POWER TRAIN	15
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE	12

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802Y/Z) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: SERVICE ACTION: INHIBITOR SWITCH REPLACEMENT (SA317B/C) - 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. T

100000 POWER TRAIN

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

100000 POWER TRAIN

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

100000 POWER TRAIN

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

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: FUEL PUMP FILTER INSPECTION/REPLACEMENT - 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 bulletin pro

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: FUEL PUMP FILTER INSPECTION/REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides information associated with the 'Warranty Extension Program' (WTY028) to inspect and, if necessary, replace the fuel pump filter assembly on 2016-2

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: MAINTENANCE REMINDER FEATURE - 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 bulletin provides inform

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

VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia is conducting a Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign to update the software programming on your vehicle's Engine Control Mo

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: THETA 2.0L T-GDI ULEV LOGIC IMPROVEMENT FOR EMISSIONS (SC205) - This bulletin provides the procedure to update the emissions-related logic of the Engine Control Unit (ECU) on some 2016-2020MY Optima (JF

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

SC205_POC: PROOF OF CORRECTION CARD

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

SC205_STKR: VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN COMPLETION STICKER

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: QUESTION AND ANSWER - This document is the Question and Answer Guide containing the most frequently asked questions regarding the Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign (SC205).

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: DEALER PARTS AND SERVICE MANAGER MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer Parts and Service Managers that Kia is conducting a Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign on 2016-2020 MY Kia Optim

350000 EQUIPMENT

VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: DEALER PRINCIPAL MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer principals that Kia is conducting a Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign on 2016-2020 MY Kia Optima vehicles equipped with the 2.0

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

WARRANTY EXTENSION: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia is extending the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage for repairs related to low-pressure fuel pump failure in 2016-2020 MY Optima vehicles

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

WARRANTY EXTENSION: REIMBURSEMENT FORM - This document is a Reimbursement Request form that was mailed with the customer letter advising them to submit the form if they had paid for repairs for this same matter prior to the warranty extensi

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

WARRANTY EXTENSION: QUESTION AND ANSWER - This document is the Question and Answer Guide containing the most frequently asked questions regarding the Warranty Extension (WTY028).

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

WARRANTY EXTENSION: DEALER PARTS AND SERVICE MANAGER MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer Parts and Service Managers that Kia is extending the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage for repairs related to low-pressure fuel

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

WARRANTY EXTENSION: DEALER PRINCIPAL MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer principals that Kia is extending the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage for repairs related to low-pressure fuel pump failure for 2016-2020 MY Op

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

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: MDPS WARNING LAMP DIAGNOSTIC INSPECTION & SINGLE PARTS REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides information regarding the diagnosis of Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS), also known as Electronic Power Steering (EPS)

010000 STEERING

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

010000 STEERING

WARRANTY EXTENSION: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the notification to owners of the warranty extension program for WTY023. Kia is extending the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage for repairs related to the Motor Driven Power Stee

010000 STEERING

061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

010000 STEERING

WARRANTY EXTENSION: QUESTION AND ANSWER - This document is the Question and Answer Guide containing the most frequently asked questions regarding the warranty extension (WTY023). Kia America, Inc., is extending the New Vehicle Limited Warra

010000 STEERING

WARRANTY EXTENSION: DEALER PARTS AND SERVICE MANAGER MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer Parts and Service Managers of the warranty extension program for WTY023. Kia America, Inc., is extending the New Vehicle Limited War

010000 STEERING

WARRANTY EXTENSION: DEALER PRINCIPAL MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer principals of the warranty extension program for WTY023. Kia America, Inc., is extending the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage for the Motor Dri

016000 STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

016000 STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802Y/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

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

100000 POWER TRAIN

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: 7-SPEED DCT JUDDER INSPECTION AND DUAL CLUTCH ASSEMBLY REPLACEMENT - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the mar

100000 POWER TRAIN

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: 7-SPEED DUAL CLUTCH TRANSMISSION (DCT) ANTI-JUDDER LOGIC IMPROVEMENT - This bulletin provides the procedure to update the software logic of the Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) system on some 2016-2020MY Optima (JF

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PARTIAL REPAIR OF THE DUAL PINION MOTOR DRIVER POWER STEERING SYSTEM - This bulletin provides information regarding the availability of partial repair (depending on faulty components) of the Dual Pinion Motor Dri

350000 EQUIPMENT

010000 STEERING

260000 FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

PITSTOP: FRONT RADAR SENSOR MOUNTING INSPECTION (PS704) - This pitstop provides information regarding front radar sensor alignment on 2014MY and later vehicles that may exhibit a warning light ON related to radar sensor alignment errors in

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

010000 STEERING

130000 VISIBILITY

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: WINDOW REGULATOR DRUM GEAR REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides the procedure to replace the window regulator drum gear on some 2016-2017MY Optima (JFa) vehicles, produced from September 01, 2015 through July 31,

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

350000 EQUIPMENT

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: 7-SPEED DCT JUDDER INSPECTION AND DUAL CLUTCH ASSEMBLY REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides the procedure to replace Dual Clutch Assembly and upgrade the TCU on some 2016-2020MY Kia vehicles listed on the table

100000 POWER TRAIN

010000 STEERING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

010000 STEERING

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

010000 STEERING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

PITSTOP: MFC, CONCERNS FOR DISABLED OPERATION - This Pitstop provides information regarding concerns with disabled operation of Multi-Function Camera (MFC) on some Kia vehicles. When normal operation is not possible due to certain outside e

130000 VISIBILITY

PITSTOP: CORRECT PROCEDURE FOR RAISING WINDSHIELD WIPERS - 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. When servicing windshield wi

Showing 100 of 318 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

10,397 Total Complaints

5 Investigations

536 Reported Crashes

485 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	211	View
2019	1	321	View
2018	2	334	View
2017	3	355	View
2016 (current)	5	1,079
2015	4	1,403	View
2014	7	791	View
2013	9	1,889	View
2012	5	1,263	View
2011	5	781	View
2010	1	99	View
2009	1	166	View
2008	3	188	View
2007	2	218	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

2016 KIA OPTIMA

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2016 KIA OPTIMA

Safety Technology

EPA Fuel Economy, 2016 KIA OPTIMA

Technical Service Bulletins, 2016 KIA OPTIMA

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, KIA OPTIMA

KIA OPTIMA - All Years Overview

KIA OPTIMA - Year by Year

Other KIA Models