2016 KIA OPTIMA

5 recalls, 1,067 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

1,067 total complaints 57 crashes 25 fires 54 injuries 2 deaths

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ENGINE	255
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	119
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	112
POWER TRAIN	96
STEERING	49
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	48
SERVICE BRAKES	46
EXTERIOR LIGHTING	40
STRUCTURE:BODY	31
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	30

Incident date: Jul 1, 2026

Code was on and off for a cylinder 2 misfire was off at this point (intermittent misfire) ecl was off car stalled out at 3rpms while driving, tiny puff of smoke once came from between the air intake and the engine, and also no crank no start but car has power. I’ve kept up with the oil changes eve... Read more

Incident date: Apr 13, 2026

I had just stopped at stop sign and I turned right. My speed was approximately 40 mph and there was a LOUD POP. I immediately hit the brakes and had NO BRAKES. I got car off road and smoke was already coming from under hood. It caught fire immediately and burned up. Total loss . About 6 months pr... Read more

Fire

Incident date: May 23, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving 10 MPH, the front driver’s and passenger’s side windows lowered unintendedly. Neither the dealer nor an independent was contacted. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The rea... Read more

Incident date: Jun 15, 2026

the engine. I was at a stop sign when the car stop responding to me pressing the accelerator and would not go. Upon further inspection it was noted that my car had no oil in it. I am diligent in getting my oil changed every 3 months or 3,000 miles. My engine had "seized" and i am being advised to pu... Read more

Incident date: Jan 10, 2026

My 2016 Kia Optima equipped with the 2.4L DOHC I4 GDI engine began to experience progressive and severe oil consumption during the latter part of my ownership. The oil warning light began activating repeatedly, even after shortly getting the oil changed. Several certified mechanics and oil change s... Read more

Incident date: Jan 10, 2026

Incident date: Jun 4, 2026

The contact owns a 2013 Lincoln MKX. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle hesitated upon depression of the accelerator pedal, with the transmission warning light illuminated. Occasionally, the contact was forced to shut off the vehicle and wait a few moments before re... Read more

Incident date: Jun 4, 2026

States having problems with oil lost, but only inside the motor as if the rings are faulty

Incident date: Jun 4, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that while driving to the dealer for a service appointment, the vehicle made an abnormally high-pitched sound. The vehicle was diagnosed with a UA80 transmission failure. No further information was available. There was no warning light i... Read more

Incident date: Apr 23, 2026

The contact owns a 2021 Audi Q3. The contact stated while attempting to refuel the vehicle, fuel spilled out of the filler neck and fell onto the ground. The vehicle was taken to dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the fuel tank needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due ... Read more

Incident date: Apr 23, 2026

My 2025 Mazda CX-5 includes a Traffic Jam Assist (TJA) stop and go feature. This feature allows the adaptive cruise control to move the vehicle in traffic with minimal drier intervention. As traffic advances the vehicle moves. If traffic stops, the vehicle stops. When clear of vehicles based on the ... Read more

Incident date: Apr 23, 2026

The contact owned a 2016 KIA OPTIMA. The contact stated that while driving at 30 MPH occupied with her husband the contact heard a noise coming from the rear of the vehicle and smoke coming from the rear of the vehicle as you looked in the drive side rear view mirror and while depressing the brake ... Read more

Incident date: May 27, 2026

The transmission is absolutely flawed - it delays shifting in unpredictable ways when in traffic, and often slams into gear when downshifting, which is jarring on the driver. Transmission should absolutely be recalled for the bushing. It is unsafe and unethical that Ford knowingly continued to use... Read more

Incident date: May 27, 2026

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer for a routine oil change. While driving, the oil low light illuminated. The vehicle was burning an excessive amount of oil. The local dealer was contacted again, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufactur... Read more

Incident date: May 27, 2026

The contact owns a 2025 Kia Seltos. The contact stated that while driving in snowy, inclement weather; the entire rear end of the vehicle would become covered in snow. The contact stated snow would become to heavy for the rear windshield wiper which would obstruct his vision while driving in the sno... Read more

Incident date: Jul 29, 2025

12-volt onboard battery error codes, stating battery charge is low, and to safely park the vehicle. Alternatively, drive the vehicle to charge the battery. Or charge the vehicle. The car has been to the dealer for testing, and they say that the on-board battery checks out without any problems, yet I... Read more

Incident date: May 24, 2026

While accelerating onto the highway in my 2016 Kia Optima 2.4L, the vehicle suddenly lost all engine power without warning. The vehicle would no longer accelerate and I was forced to coast and brake to safety. Immediately after the engine shut off, the check engine light, oil light, and battery ligh... Read more

Incident date: May 24, 2026

All kinds of warning signals come up like 4 wheel drive on, off, roll up and down driver window, no brake pads detected, no washer fluid, service esc, service 4 wheel drive, traction control on and off, radio blacks out, lights dim, feels like rear wheels lock up and release, transmission feels like... Read more

Incident date: Oct 1, 2025

During operation of my 2015 Ford Edge Titanium, the vehicle experienced intermittent loss of acceleration and multiple electronic warning messages. While driving, pressing the accelerator pedal would sometimes result in little or no vehicle acceleration. The RPMs fluctuated abnormally and the vehicl... Read more

Incident date: May 9, 2026

Lowering volume to safe level is major safety risk when riding a motorcycle. I wear earplugs under my motorcycle helmet and need the volume to stay at the level I set it at. I can not access my phone while riding to select a prompt to keep volume at the level I set it at so it turns it down to a lev... Read more

Incident date: May 9, 2026

UNKNOWN THE AIRBAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY WHEN THE CAR HIT OTHER DRIVER FROM BEHIND.

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: May 9, 2026

UNKNOWN THE AIRBAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY WHEN THE CAR HIT OTHER DRIVER FROM BEHIND.

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Apr 13, 2026

The recall is 10 months old and no remedy offered. Every time I get behind tge wheel I'm risking an injury or death of myself or someone else. I can't sell my vehicle because it would put the next owner at risk. Do I have to wait until there's an injury or death to have something done about this?

Incident date: Apr 13, 2026

Issue 1: High oil consumption in the engine due to poor engine design, according to the auto repair center. 5 quarts of oil are added to the engine once every 2-3 weeks. All oil leaks were previously repaired, but oil is still burning off. Issue 2: The engine has misfired more than once, with a pu... Read more

Incident date: Apr 13, 2026

Incident date: Apr 29, 2026

The contact owns a The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was/was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manuf... Read more

Incident date: Apr 22, 2026

The vehicle listed has an unfixable defect (water valve/coolant issue) that creates a safety hazard in an electric vehicle, BMW, the manufacturer has failed to provide a remedy within a reasonable timreframe. AC Coolant valve and high voltage battery are part of the same loop which make this vehicle... Read more

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

I took the Kia to Hurst Dealership and Scott told me he would check it out. He called me and told me I needed the key replaced, so we paid them 230 dollars. Then he told me he found 4 recalls, fixed 3 of the 4 recalls. The last one, the engine seizing up, was still not complete. after 30 days we rem... Read more

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: 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: Feb 1, 2026

I got into my car to leave, I placed my phone on the wireless charging pad. When I got to my location about 10 minutes later, I grabbed my phone and went to put the wrist band attached to my phone around my wrist. The wrist band is a metal chain and it burned me on the side of my wrist and top of ha... Read more

1 injured

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: Sep 4, 2023

Incident date: Apr 7, 2026

I am reporting a systemic safety failure involving a 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee sold as a "Certified Pre-Owned" (CPO) vehicle. Despite the mandatory 125-point CPO safety inspection, the vehicle was delivered with multiple safety-critical defects that should have prevented certification. Primary Safet... 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

Incident date: Mar 24, 2026

I am submitting this complaint regarding a serious and ongoing safety issue with my 2017 Honda CR‑V equipped with the 1.5L turbocharged engine. While driving, the vehicle experienced sudden and unexpected power loss, creating a dangerous situation, particularly while in traffic. During this incid... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2025

I began to brake because there was a parked car at the stop sign i was approaching. My vehicle was not stopping even though the brake pedal was pressed all the way down to the floor. 2025 Ford Expedition crashed into a parked car is a malfunctioning Electronic Brake Booster (EBB) module. Crucially... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Aug 1, 2025

Crash

Incident date: Aug 1, 2025

I purchased a vehicle from Banter Auto here in Wichita, Kansas. I reviewed the Carfax beforehand and nothing stood out that scared me so I signed off and purchased the vehicle. I have had nothing but problems since buying which was 7 months ago and have spent $9000 on repairs. I’ve been told by se... Read more

Incident date: Feb 1, 2026

Took it to dealer for engine sound said nothing was wrong 4 days later rod bearing went out while driving. Truck no longer able to drive

Incident date: Feb 1, 2026

The driver’s seat heater malfunctioned and produced excessive heat while activated during normal vehicle operation. The heat became extremely intense at a low temperature and resulted in burns to the driver’s midsection, lower back, and upper buttocks. I, the driver sustained physical injuries ... Read more

Incident date: Feb 20, 2026

The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Corolla. The contact stated that while driving at 20 MPH, the clutch pedal failed to function as intended. The clutch pedal was stuck, and the contact was unable to shift gear. The contact forced the clutch back into neutral while holding the clutch pedal. Once the clu... Read more

Incident date: Mar 2, 2026

Vehicle WITHOUT WARNING will start to jerk then go into “limp” mode. Pressing on gas pedal makes the revving noise but with not physical movement made. This has happened on MULTIPLE occasions (13 times in 4 months) including in the snow and on the interstate while driving at 70mph where no shoul... Read more

Incident date: Feb 21, 2026

Axels make a clicking noise when making a sharp turn from a stop. Axel failure can lead to catastrophic accident. Dealer inspected and confirmed noise. Dealer advised that Honda is refusing to replace the axel under warranty with the current available part. the noise is evidence of parts of the axel... Read more

Incident date: Feb 13, 2026

I have a recall on this vehicle that GMC has failed to provide me parts/repair and this recall will be 3 years old in June. I have emailed the local dealer, the manager of the local dealer, GM corporate, and no one has followed through. The best I came to getting the repair was that Corporate made... Read more

Incident date: Feb 11, 2026

Unsafe Vehicle, Unresolved Mechanical Failures – Serious Safety Concern On [XXX], I purchased a Jeep (VIN: [XXX] ) from Whipple Auto Sales. Since the purchase, the vehicle has experienced repeated mechanical failures that have created serious safety concerns. Approximately two weeks after purcha... Read more

Incident date: Feb 13, 2026

November 26th my car went into LOMP mode. But then restored itself. December 3rd my car went into LOMP mode again and had not recovered along with a slew of ALARMS. I have been using uber and rental cars since this issue. Highly likely this is a fuel pump issue but unable to determine as the author... Read more

Showing 50 of 1,067 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	$2,500
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

10,296 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 (current)	5	1,067
2015	4	1,389	View
2014	7	780	View
2013	9	1,872	View
2012	5	1,260	View
2011	5	771	View
2010	1	99	View
2009	1	166	View
2008	3	188	View
2007	2	217	View
2006	2	214	View
2005	0	180	View
2004	1	306	View
2003	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