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2018 Kia Optima
The verdict
2 things going for it, 3 to watch.
Cons
Official recall campaigns exist for this vehicle. See the Safety Recalls section for what failed and how it's fixed.
Why we say this — NHTSA — Safety Recalls
129 of 230 owner complaints are about the engine. Tap it in the heatmap to read the real reports.
Why we say this — NHTSA — Owner Complaints
10 complaint(s) involved a crash and 10 involved a fire.
Why we say this — NHTSA — Owner Complaints
Pros
Earned a strong overall government crash-test rating.
Why we say this — NHTSA — 5-Star Safety Ratings
230 complaints ranks #4 of 24 popular 2018 models we track (fewest first, snapshot 2026-07-10). Raw counts partly reflect how many were sold — see "How it compares" below.
Why we say this — NHTSA — Owner Complaints
Neutral
Official EPA fuel economy. We show this as a neutral fact — whether it's 'good' depends on the vehicle's class.
Why we say this — U.S. EPA / DOE — fueleconomy.gov
Take this with you:
★★★★★Crash-test safety
0Safety recalls
0Owner complaints
9% involved a crash or fire
25–31Combined MPG
ℹ️ Recalls & complaints are reported per model — the same across every trim & engine. Fuel economy (and crash ratings by body style) can vary — use the pickers in those sections.
Safety Recalls
Official recall campaigns. Tap one to see the danger and the fix.
What is a recall, really?
A recall means the government made the manufacturer admit a safety defect — and the fix is free at any dealer, forever, even for used cars. Recalls range from a software update to "the steering wheel can detach," so read the danger line on each one. Buying used? Ask the seller for proof each recall was completed, or have a dealer run the VIN. Recalls also have a quieter cousin worth reading: technical service bulletins.
NHTSA Campaign 18V161000
What's wrong: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Optima hybrid vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with a Voltage Protection Device (VPD), designed to protect the high voltage battery module, that may activate inadvertently.
The danger: If the VPD activates while the vehicle is being operated in Electric Vehicle (EV) mode, there may be a loss of power, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will remove the VPD switch and install two newly designed Battery Management Systems (BMS) that contain Overvoltage Protection Devices (OPDs), free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC162.
NHTSA Campaign 23V594000
What's wrong: 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 Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
The danger: A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
The fix: 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.
Source: NHTSA — Safety Recalls · re-checked about every 24 hours
Where Owners Report Problems
Where owners report the most trouble — based on 230 complaints (10 involved a crash, 10 a fire). Tap a part to read the real reports.
Raw count — best-sellers naturally log more complaints than rare cars, so judge it against the peer comparison below, not on its own.
Why don't we show complaints per vehicle sold?
Because no official source publishes sales counts per model — that data is sold by private firms, and the free numbers online are guesses. A rate built on a guessed denominator is a guess wearing a lab coat, so we refuse to show one. Instead we show comparisons where fleet size cancels out or is disclosed: the same model across its own years, the crash/fire severity mix, and the peer ranking below — each with its methodology attached.
Of 129 reports about this part, 1 involved a crash and 9 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 129):
I drove the car to the park about 6 miles round trip with family. I came back home and started having lunch for about 25 minutes. I then attempt to start the engine to go to my appointment but then car didn't turn on. On third attempt I had a weird noise coming out of the hood and I went back inside the house to get my gloves. When i came outside of the house, the hood of the car was in flames. I called 911 to turn off the fire. The car is now at a total loss.
Took my vehicle for an oil change next day my vehicle was not working well stopped on me could start didn’t want to do damage so I stopped driving and had it told to a shop found out there is METAL IN THE ENGINE
Was driving on the interstate. The only light on was the ABS light and the car started smoking. Had to come to a stop as they were sparks coming from out under the car through it into park at around 15 mph steel jumped out of the car and within a minute the car was fully engulfed in flames.
The car caught on fire in our driveway
2018 KIA OPTIMA. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO ILLIMINATED OIL LIGHT. THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE CONSUMED OIL QUICKLY, BUT WITHOUT ANY LEAKING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE DEALER SUGGESTED DRIVING 1000 MILES AND THEN RETURN TO THE DEALER TO BE FURTHER INSPECTED. AFTER LEAVING THE DEALER, THE VEHICLE BEGAN SMOKING. THE DEALER STATED IT COULD BE DUE TO SPILLED OILED THAT OCCURED DURING THE OIL CHANGE. THE CONSUMER CONTINUED TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE AND IT CAUGHT FIRE AND EXPLODED.
Of 37 reports about this part, 0 involved a crash and 2 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 37):
Was driving on the interstate. The only light on was the ABS light and the car started smoking. Had to come to a stop as they were sparks coming from out under the car through it into park at around 15 mph steel jumped out of the car and within a minute the car was fully engulfed in flames.
WHILE I WAS DRIVING MY VEHICLE ON THE STREETS; ITS AN 2018 KIA OPTIMA.ON AUGUST 2,2019 MY CAR ENGINE CAUGHT ON FIRE.PEOPLE WALKING ON THE SIDEWALK AND OTHER DRIVERS STOP TO ALERT ME THAT THEY SAW FIRE FROM THE BOTTOM OF THE CAR.THEN WHILE DRIVING I START TO NOTICE EXTREME SMOKE COMING FROM THE HOOD SO MUCH I COULDNT NO LONGER LOOK WHERE I WAS GOING.I PANICKED AND MIND WAS RACING Q HOW COULD THIS HAPPEN I GOT THIS CAR NEW LAST YEAR MAY 1,2018. WHEN I JUMPED OUT TO LOOK AT THE HOOD I SAW MY ENGINE ENGULFED WITH FLAMES.NEARBY DRIVER THREW ME A BOTTOLE OF WATER,LUCKILY I HAD JUST BOUGHT 24 CASE OF WATER, ANOTHER DRIVER PULLED OVER AND WAS HELPING ME POUR WATER TO REDUCE THE DAMAGE OF THE FIRE.NO ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON OR ANY OTHER WARNING LIGHTS BEFORE OR AFTER THE FIRE AND I HAD MY RECENTLY OIL CHANGE.
My teenage daughter regularly drives this vehicle. The vehicle began experiencing significant oil consumption, oil leaks, and intermittent loss of power. During an early inspection at an independent repair facility, a check engine code P1326 was identified. Due to the symptoms and diagnostic code, the repair facility advised that the vehicle could be heading toward engine failure and recommended that the vehicle be taken to an authorized dealership because potential engine issues may fall under manufacturer warranty coverage. The vehicle was then towed to an authorized dealership. During the first visit, the dealership retained the vehicle for an extended period of time, approximately two months. During that visit, several recommended services were completed, including replacement of spark plugs, ignition wires, and replacement of the valve cover gasket along with other recommended maintenance. During that visit, it was also stated that the vehicle has a known issue with excessive oil consumption. Because of this, the oil level is checked weekly and oil is added as needed. I also informed the dealership that the independent repair facility had identified code P1326, but I was told that the dealership diagnostic codes were different. After these repairs, the vehicle experienced another incident where it lost power and began idling roughly while being driven on a busy highway. The vehicle was taken back to the dealership. During that visit, it was stated that the fuel injector harness and oil pressure sensor needed to be replaced. The dealership also indicated that the spark plugs needed to be replaced again, even though they had been replaced at the same dealership less than a year earlier. At that time, I asked if the vehicle would be safe to drive for approximately one week because I needed to travel out of town and my daughter would need the vehicle. The dealership advised that it was safe to drive during that time. The vehicle was then brought back to the deal
It started with the oil. I constantly have to add oil. when it first started that’s what I was doing just adding oil. Then it got worse the engine light started to come on and it no longer gives me the low oil warning. I took it to the dealership and it was there for about three weeks. They said that the car needed a system update, they updated it and i took it home after that. Its been about a year since then and my car is still having the same issue and getting worse. I had to change the spark plugs a few times since then i also have oil coming out the back pipe and it’s been doing this since before I took it to the dealership. I also had to spend money on a rental car while it was at the dealership.
I was sold an unsafe vehicle at J and J Auto house 6446 Wilshire Bl LA,CA 90022. Dealer withheld condition of car . Had car three months and was stranded on highway. Car was towed to Kia dealer and diagnosed with complete engine failure. Dealer will not honor limited warranty, shady sales practices withheld recall info during sale, won’t allow his mechanic to look at car, dodged calls, denied request to return car for refund
Of 33 reports about this part, 0 involved a crash and 2 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 33):
Was driving on the interstate. The only light on was the ABS light and the car started smoking. Had to come to a stop as they were sparks coming from out under the car through it into park at around 15 mph steel jumped out of the car and within a minute the car was fully engulfed in flames.
I turned the car off, it had difficulty turning back on and the brake pedal got really hard. I had to wait about 30-45 minutes and then I was able to get the car started and brake pedal back to normal and no lights. Recently, I left the car on to run into a shop real quick and come back out. When I got back to the car, the power steering light, battery, and warning light?(amber triangle with ! In the center of it) were all on. I rev the engine and the issue went away for a quick second but then came back on. To avoid turning my car off and being stuck, I just shift to reverse and tried to leave. I’m backing out of the spot and now the backup camera is going in and out lights flashing on the dash and I’m trying to brake but the brake pedal isn’t registering and next thing you know, I’ve backed into a guard rail. On the way to drop my kids off at the babysitter, I was coming to a stop sign, and my car wouldn’t brake, i went through oncoming trafic and had to run off the road. KIA did a multi point inspection a few months apart from one another. One the car tested fine, then the second time they are saying a brake booster and no engine oil in the vehicle and that the car is basically trash. The oil light goes on and off and I can smell burning oil. I still owe 7 grand on this car and I just bought it last year and it was seamingly fine.
I was sold an unsafe vehicle at J and J Auto house 6446 Wilshire Bl LA,CA 90022. Dealer withheld condition of car . Had car three months and was stranded on highway. Car was towed to Kia dealer and diagnosed with complete engine failure. Dealer will not honor limited warranty, shady sales practices withheld recall info during sale, won’t allow his mechanic to look at car, dodged calls, denied request to return car for refund
On August 26, 2025, I brought my 2018 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid to an authorized dealer for recall SC218 (engine inspection and KSDS software update). The dealer verbally stated both SC218 and SC278 recalls were completed, and the repair order (RO #XXX) lists them as performed. In September 2025, Kia America emailed me showing recall SC218 still open, and a warranty coverage report dated September 26, 2025, again listed SC218 as unclosed. On November 4, 2025, NHTSA’s official VIN lookup confirmed the recall remains “Incomplete.” On October 21, 2025, Kia America emailed me under Case #XXX stating that SC218 was “confirmed completed” and that the dealer performed a software update to the ECU, referencing RO #XXX. However, NHTSA’s database still lists recall SC218 as incomplete. This contradiction between Kia America’s internal record, the dealer’s invoice, and the federal NHTSA database raises a serious safety concern that the recall inspection or software update was never actually performed or was never reported correctly. I have requested written proof and diagnostic data (Battery SOH report) multiple times but have not received them. If accurate, this means I was led to believe my vehicle’s engine-safety recall had been repaired when federal records still list it as open. I am requesting NHTSA to review this reporting discrepancy, ensure Kia America and the dealer produce verifiable proof of completion, and confirm that the federal record is corrected. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
My cars bulbs have been blowing on a regular basis for two years..some of the bulb connections are catching fire and exploding .Ive changed on numerous occasions but doesn’t matter even with new fittings…obviously an electric problem
Of 18 reports about this part, 1 involved a crash and 1 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 18):
THE CV AXLE ASSEMBLIES SNAP LIKE THE 2016 MODELS DO KIA'S RECALL NUMBER SC139.
WHILE I WAS DRIVING MY VEHICLE ON THE STREETS; ITS AN 2018 KIA OPTIMA.ON AUGUST 2,2019 MY CAR ENGINE CAUGHT ON FIRE.PEOPLE WALKING ON THE SIDEWALK AND OTHER DRIVERS STOP TO ALERT ME THAT THEY SAW FIRE FROM THE BOTTOM OF THE CAR.THEN WHILE DRIVING I START TO NOTICE EXTREME SMOKE COMING FROM THE HOOD SO MUCH I COULDNT NO LONGER LOOK WHERE I WAS GOING.I PANICKED AND MIND WAS RACING Q HOW COULD THIS HAPPEN I GOT THIS CAR NEW LAST YEAR MAY 1,2018. WHEN I JUMPED OUT TO LOOK AT THE HOOD I SAW MY ENGINE ENGULFED WITH FLAMES.NEARBY DRIVER THREW ME A BOTTOLE OF WATER,LUCKILY I HAD JUST BOUGHT 24 CASE OF WATER, ANOTHER DRIVER PULLED OVER AND WAS HELPING ME POUR WATER TO REDUCE THE DAMAGE OF THE FIRE.NO ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON OR ANY OTHER WARNING LIGHTS BEFORE OR AFTER THE FIRE AND I HAD MY RECENTLY OIL CHANGE.
It burns oil constantly. I constantly have to get new filters put on because they become black very quickly same with the oil itself. The engine has a tic and I know other people with optima’s that have the same problem. I burn through 4 quarts in two weeks- less than 600 miles.
The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving approximately 40 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The contact stated that there was an abnormal growling sound coming from under the floorboard, and the engine was making an abnormal knocking sound. The contact stated that the RPM gauge was revving high while depressing the accelerator pedal; however, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact pulled over and turned off and restarted the vehicle; however, the vehicle was not running normally. The contact stated that the failure was a recurring failure. Additionally, the contact stated that vehicle was consuming approximately one quart of engine oil per week and the transmission was hesitating and was making the vehicle jerk while shifting gear. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 76,270.
Car will NOT go pat 60mph and i haven’t had this car just over 6 months. And the camshaft sensors are gone out. Smoke comes out the pipe when mash on gas…. It is really a bad vehicle. And Southeast auto refuses to fix it. I really honestly think the motor is bad in it. Because I been having issues with it since I had it
Of 17 reports about this part, 2 involved a crash and 0 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 17):
TAKATA RECALL. I WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT WHERE I WAS COMING OFF THE HIGHWAY, SLID ON WATER AND CRASHED INTO A STEEL POLE. THE BREAKS DID NOT WORK AT ALL AND WHEN I GOT OUT TO LOOK AT THE DAMAGE THE BREAK PADS WERE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE STREET LIKE THEY HAD JUST FALL OFF. NONE OF THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED AND MY FRIEND'S HEAD CRACKED THE WINDSHIELD. CAR WAS TOTALED.
I turned the car off, it had difficulty turning back on and the brake pedal got really hard. I had to wait about 30-45 minutes and then I was able to get the car started and brake pedal back to normal and no lights. Recently, I left the car on to run into a shop real quick and come back out. When I got back to the car, the power steering light, battery, and warning light?(amber triangle with ! In the center of it) were all on. I rev the engine and the issue went away for a quick second but then came back on. To avoid turning my car off and being stuck, I just shift to reverse and tried to leave. I’m backing out of the spot and now the backup camera is going in and out lights flashing on the dash and I’m trying to brake but the brake pedal isn’t registering and next thing you know, I’ve backed into a guard rail. On the way to drop my kids off at the babysitter, I was coming to a stop sign, and my car wouldn’t brake, i went through oncoming trafic and had to run off the road. KIA did a multi point inspection a few months apart from one another. One the car tested fine, then the second time they are saying a brake booster and no engine oil in the vehicle and that the car is basically trash. The oil light goes on and off and I can smell burning oil. I still owe 7 grand on this car and I just bought it last year and it was seamingly fine.
Purchased car about 4 months ago, before warranty ran out, the shop looked at it told me it was fine, it wouldn't accelerate. Few weeks later same issue but all my oil was gone, they found 11 things wrong with the vehicle, told me warranty wouldn't take care of it unless the engine blow up. The salesman Scottie Mitchell told me check Kia for recalls, called Kia 3 recalls, they were trying to finance another car higher, back wanted to know why the dealership didn't know about recalls, Kia place did call a Robert. One of the owners did know about recalls, why dealership didn't pass them on. They trying to sell me a higher vehicle to keep cover the cost of the one I got 1st
Driver side brake light will only work with headlights off. Turn headlights on and it goes out and doesn't start to work until turning off headlights. Also brakes give out when trying to stop, you have to actually shift to neutral for brakes to work again.
I slowly pulled into the parking lot at work coming around a corner with my break song slowly to see if anything was coming from the other side, pull it around to THE back looking straight ahead to pull into my parking spot as I pulled into my parking spot mind you I have had my foot on the break before. I got there and I got into the park spot. I hit the brakes and the brakes went to the floor multiple times and the car just searched straightforward into the brick wall of the building.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 14):
See attached document for complaint.
The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal odor and a knocking sound coming from the engine. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the dealer was unable to duplicate the issue. The vehicle was not repaired. The issue persisted. The contact stated that the vehicle was later returned to the dealer to be repaired under a service campaign involving the engine control unit (ECU). Shortly after the vehicle was repaired, the ECU failure message was displayed. The vehicle subsequently became inoperable. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 1,500.
The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while attempting to accelerate from a standing start the vehicle had experience sever jerking and hesitation. Also, the vehicle has experience oil consumption problems and the contact constantly added engine oil. The cause of the failures were not determine. Also, the hood latch had malfunctioned and the hood could not opened to add oil to the engine. The cause of the failures were not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failures but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 121,000.
The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle hesitated while depressing the accelerator pedal with the oil warning light flashing on the instrument panel. The contact's friend initially inspected the vehicle and discovered that the engine oil was empty. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where a diagnostic test was performed, and the mechanic discovered oil around the engine; however, the source of the leak was not discovered. The contact was informed that an engine valve was sealed and that the failure was repaired. Despite the repair, the failure persisted, and the oil light was frequently illuminated on the instrument panel. The engine oil level was checked and was extremely low. The dealer had not offered any additional assistance for the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact made several attempts to reach the manufacturer but was unsuccessful. The failure mileage was approximately 10,000.
The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving 65 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle shuddered and stalled. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road. The vehicle was able to restart but was shuddering significantly. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with a fractured valve in cylinder #1. The dealer determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and confirmed that the maintenance records of the vehicle were satisfactory; however, the manufacturer denied assistance and informed the contact that the failure was not a factory defect but was due to wear and tear. The failure mileage was approximately 109,000.
Of 14 reports about this part, 0 involved a crash and 1 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 14):
My cars bulbs have been blowing on a regular basis for two years..some of the bulb connections are catching fire and exploding .Ive changed on numerous occasions but doesn’t matter even with new fittings…obviously an electric problem
Kia Optima headlights turn off randomly while on automatic. This dangerous issue has been investigated on other Kia models by the NTSB, which them prompted Kia to issue a recall. I have found many, many posts on car and Kia forums about headlights shutting off while driving at night with the Kia Optima (as well as other Kia items). It's very scary and very hazardous. This is a widespread issue.
While driving at night if the headlights will randomly turn completely off
My grandson was driving home last night on our Clay County West Virginia narrow unlighted road when his 2018 Kia Optima Headlights went out completely. He wrote that he was scared but finally was able to get lights back on before running off the road. Also, several nights while car is locked with one in the car: the headlights came on. He had to unlock the car and start it up to finally get the headlights off. The lights were off when he first entered the house. I have a service call set up for 09-27-24 with Dutch Miller Kia, but there is a $180.96 + tax diagnostic charge and then the cost to repair the situation. I see there are many NHTSA complaints on your website for this problem. Kia apparently has not issued a statement or recall. HELP!
Headlights randomly turn off while driving. To get them back on you have to switch on and off before they turn back on. Very dangerous for my 17 yr old daughter driving down a highway at night. The lights will also turn on in the middle of the night and if we happen to notice, we have to go to the car and turn the lights on and off to get them fixed. There are numerous reports on this when Google. I am not the only one. Really dangerous!
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 13):
I am submitting this complaint regarding ongoing and persistent mechanical issues with my vehicle since the time of purchase. The vehicle has repeatedly shut off unexpectedly, creating a serious safety concern. Initially, I suspected the issue might be related to the battery, and I have replaced the battery twice within the past 4 years. However, the problem has continued. In January, the vehicle began shaking and shutting down again. I took it to a mechanic, who diagnosed the issue as faulty spark plugs and an ignition coil. The diagnostic codes provided were P0303 and P0456, and the recommended repairs were completed. Approximately one month later, the vehicle began shutting off again. I then took it to the dealership, where I was advised that the valve cover gasket needed to be replaced, along with the belts, and that a fuel system cleaning was required. I subsequently had these repairs completed by my mechanic. Less than a week after completing those repairs, the vehicle once again began shutting down. A diagnostic scan then produced code P123300. In addition to these repeated shutdowns, the vehicle consumes an excessive amount of oil, has poor acceleration, and continues to stall unexpectedly both while driving on the road and while idling, such as in a drive thru. These recurring issues have made the vehicle unreliable and unsafe. I am concerned about the risk of the vehicle shutting off while in motion, which could lead to a dangerous situation. I am requesting that this matter be reviewed for potential defects or safety-related concerns.
On August 26, 2025, I brought my 2018 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid to an authorized dealer for recall SC218 (engine inspection and KSDS software update). The dealer verbally stated both SC218 and SC278 recalls were completed, and the repair order (RO #XXX) lists them as performed. In September 2025, Kia America emailed me showing recall SC218 still open, and a warranty coverage report dated September 26, 2025, again listed SC218 as unclosed. On November 4, 2025, NHTSA’s official VIN lookup confirmed the recall remains “Incomplete.” On October 21, 2025, Kia America emailed me under Case #XXX stating that SC218 was “confirmed completed” and that the dealer performed a software update to the ECU, referencing RO #XXX. However, NHTSA’s database still lists recall SC218 as incomplete. This contradiction between Kia America’s internal record, the dealer’s invoice, and the federal NHTSA database raises a serious safety concern that the recall inspection or software update was never actually performed or was never reported correctly. I have requested written proof and diagnostic data (Battery SOH report) multiple times but have not received them. If accurate, this means I was led to believe my vehicle’s engine-safety recall had been repaired when federal records still list it as open. I am requesting NHTSA to review this reporting discrepancy, ensure Kia America and the dealer produce verifiable proof of completion, and confirm that the federal record is corrected. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
My 2018 Kia Optima LX began using excessive oil (>3 quarts/1000 miles) just over 100K miles. I researched and found that the Theta II engine in my car is known for this. When I took my car to dealership (Stokes Hodges Kia, North Augusta, SC), with the check engine light on, they told me me plugs were fouled (they were just replaced 1 yr prior), cylinder 3 misfiring, and that I needed to pay a few thousand dollars to have repaired. When I asked them to guarantee the soaking process they recommended, they responded that they couldn't, that it "only worked 80% of the time." I have the KSDS download since 2019 and asked them to follow the guidelines of their TSB ENG 222 for the class action lawsuit and start a 1000 mile oil consumption test. they refused, basically telling me the only way to get a new engine from Kia, since my car is over 100K miles, is to drive it until the engine seizes. I expressed my fear for personal safety, but they wouldn't help me. I am original owner and have all services, etc documented. I called Kia customer affairs, then was told only local dealership could help. they stuck me in a loop between them without helping. Please help me.
Purchased car about 4 months ago, before warranty ran out, the shop looked at it told me it was fine, it wouldn't accelerate. Few weeks later same issue but all my oil was gone, they found 11 things wrong with the vehicle, told me warranty wouldn't take care of it unless the engine blow up. The salesman Scottie Mitchell told me check Kia for recalls, called Kia 3 recalls, they were trying to finance another car higher, back wanted to know why the dealership didn't know about recalls, Kia place did call a Robert. One of the owners did know about recalls, why dealership didn't pass them on. They trying to sell me a higher vehicle to keep cover the cost of the one I got 1st
THE FUEL PUMP HAS AN ACTIVE RECALL. TOOK ITIN TO DEALER AND WE ARE BEING ADVISED KIA WILL NOT COVER THE COST. THEY HAVE AN ARTICLE OUT THAT CLEARLY STATES THEY WILL COVER THE COSTS. THE CAR WREAKS OF THE SMELL OF GAS AND WE ARE SCARED IT WILL CATCH FIRE.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 12):
Steering column coupler went bad. Unable to swap out the coupler alone ($12 part) and had to get a whole new column (over $1200). Some of the Kia's around this one's make and model were recalled but not this one. Without this repair driving would have been dangerous.
Check engine light began flashing halfway down the highway. Oil changes and maintenance are done regularly. Vehicle handling seemed to be unsafe. Vehicle would not accelerate. Had inspection done in September.
High injector fuel pump top engine mount went out at 68000 miles. It caused the vehicle to stall and lose power and basically cut the car off while driving.
Just Started Having Problems On It’s On The Car Only Has 38,000 Miles
We would like to know what Kia is planning to do to address the fact that Kia built a car without the basic immobilizer circuit making it very easy to steal. Over the last few months, local and national news reports, as well as many social media sites, have reported on this security flaw which likely emboldens others to attempt a theft of a Kia and/or Hyundai. As I do not live in Milwaulkee, I would like to know how the company will fix this problem for the rest of us. It will not be restricted to just one city. There are numerous articles by victims that have detailed how their car theft cost them thousands of dollars in insurance deductibles, rental cars, and repairs. Many of the articles explain how thieves as young as 12 years old are able to still these cars in under a minute in broad daylight and driving recklessly creating a serious safety hazzard. Please advise what Kia will do to negate this serious security flaw.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 10):
Purchased car about 4 months ago, before warranty ran out, the shop looked at it told me it was fine, it wouldn't accelerate. Few weeks later same issue but all my oil was gone, they found 11 things wrong with the vehicle, told me warranty wouldn't take care of it unless the engine blow up. The salesman Scottie Mitchell told me check Kia for recalls, called Kia 3 recalls, they were trying to finance another car higher, back wanted to know why the dealership didn't know about recalls, Kia place did call a Robert. One of the owners did know about recalls, why dealership didn't pass them on. They trying to sell me a higher vehicle to keep cover the cost of the one I got 1st
My engine burns oil very bad. Black smoke comes out of my tailpipe and I burn through 5 quarts in less than a thousand miles. I just got my oil changed two weeks again and I just had to add more oil to my car bc it was empty. I’ve had to replace the spark plugs twice due to soot build up. I can’t afford a new car I’m 17 and can barely afford the maintenance let alone a whole new engine. Have spoken to many mechanics and they all say the same thing “it’s a Kia it’s gonna burn oil” ITS A KNOWN ISSUE. And yet Kia will not resolve it bc they don’t want to spend their own money to fix their mistake. I got an estimate for a new engine which is basically crucial and it’s over three grand. No matter where I take it everyone always says the same thing- to get rid of it before it’s too late. But I simply cannot afford to do that and I know my car is not the only one with this issue so many other people with the same car/engine have the same issue. 2.4 L GDI !!!!! I wish someone would have warned me before buying Kia. A recall to fix this issue is needed now. I lose control of the speed sometimes. I will keep my foot at a set position on the throttle and the engine will take off because it’s jumping to the usual power it should have. ( it has reduced power most of the time bc of the struggling engine) sometimes on the highway I’ll get a sudden burst of power and I have to let off the accelerator. Not safe at all
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? ******Speed Control- Vehicle will stall while on road/ highway causing rear vehicles to brake. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? *****Several times I was forced to pull over to side lanes to avoid being rear ended. *****Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? I have called dealership several times in regards to this issue, all I was told was to do not use A/C or heater as that will make the vehicle lose power. Refused to conduct was full inspection of vehicle. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? *****No, no it has not been inspected Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? *****No warning lamps not symptoms of the problem prior to the failure.
Car will NOT go pat 60mph and i haven’t had this car just over 6 months. And the camshaft sensors are gone out. Smoke comes out the pipe when mash on gas…. It is really a bad vehicle. And Southeast auto refuses to fix it. I really honestly think the motor is bad in it. Because I been having issues with it since I had it
Knock sensor detection system. Driving and all the sudden felt like it hard down shifted… car behind me almost hit me. Engine light started flashing so I pulled into autozone and plugged it in and got the knock sensor code. It’s had oil consumptions issues for a while. It’s so dangerous to drive with limited power and speed
Of 9 reports about this part, 7 involved a crash and 1 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 9):
I was run off the road by a drunk driver I hit a tree at 35MPH MY AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY NOR DID MY SEAT BELT LOCK!!!! I NOW HAVE MULTIPLE INJURIES I HAVE BROKEN BONES ALL THROUGHOUT MY FACE!!!!! A SEVERE CONCUSSION!!!!! Any time I call the the customer care center and try and get information or call someone I either get hung up or gave the run around and then hung up on my mother in law has also tried calling and have received the same response this is so unacceptable and unprofessional.
I was rearended, all air bags deployed except steeringwheel
The contact called on behalf of his son who owned a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 25 MPH, the front of the vehicle crashed into the rear end of the vehicle that was in front of him whom made a sudden stop. The contact was concerned that the air bags were not deployed. No warning lights was illuminated. A police report was filed. No medical attention was sought, and no injuries were sustained. The vehicle was pronounced totaled at the scene. The contact attempted to contact the manufacturer however, received no response. The failure mileage was 96,145.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 KIA OPTIMA HYBRID. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE STARTED TO MAKE AN UNKNOWN NOISE, THE CONTACT COSTED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND CHECK UNDERNEATH AND AROUND THE VEHICLE TO SEE WHERE THE NOISE WAS COMING FROM BUT DID NOT FIND ANYTHING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE STATED THAT SHE WAS ON A WAY TO TAKEN THE VEHICLE FOR AN OIL CHANGE. THE TECHNICIAN HEARD THE NOSE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT HE WAS WOULD NEED TO CHECK EVERYTHING BEFORE HE CAN COMPLETE AN OIL CHANGE. THE TECHNICIAN REMOVED THE PROTECTIVE SHIELD UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED OIL WAS ALL OVER AND METAL SHAVING WAS IN THE OIL AROUND THE OIL PRESSURE SENSOR. THE TECHNICIAN INFORMED THE CONTACT IT MAYBE WAS COMING FROM THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT CALLED NAPLETON'S MID RIVERS KIA, 4955 VETERANS MEMORIAL PKWY, ST PETERS, MO 63376, AND INFORMED THEM OF THE FAILURE AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED TO SCHEDULE AND APPOINTMENT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO AUFFENBERG HYUNDAI, 1300 CENTRAL PARK DR, O'FALLON, IL 62269, AND THE TECHNICIAN COULD NOT FIND A FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE MANUFACTURER WOULD SEND AND ENGINEER TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED YET. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT SHE WAS EXPERIENCING ELECTRIC SHACK FROM THE STEERING WHEEL AND THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. AND THAT THE ACCELERATOR WAS LOSING PRESSURE AND THAT SMOKE WAS COMING THROUGH THE VENT OF THE CABIN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 27,573.
I WAS IN A CAR ACCIDENT AS I WAS DRIVING ON I65 AND MY AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND MY SEAT BELT DIDN'T LOCK UP
Of 7 reports about this part, 1 involved a crash and 0 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 7):
TAKATA RECALL. I WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT WHERE I WAS COMING OFF THE HIGHWAY, SLID ON WATER AND CRASHED INTO A STEEL POLE. THE BREAKS DID NOT WORK AT ALL AND WHEN I GOT OUT TO LOOK AT THE DAMAGE THE BREAK PADS WERE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE STREET LIKE THEY HAD JUST FALL OFF. NONE OF THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED AND MY FRIEND'S HEAD CRACKED THE WINDSHIELD. CAR WAS TOTALED.
About a month ago my paint on my 2018 Kia Optima snow white pearl car started bubbling, then it turned into peeling and has since then been coming off more and more. It is occurring right under the back seat of the drivers side window. Reading into this issue more, it is happening to many who own a Kia Optima owners, especially those who own the snow white pearl color. Kia is not helping customers who are out of warranty but since this is a manufacturer defect they should be, even if they are out of warranty.
Paint peeling from driver side door.
I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AT ABOUT 60MPH AND SUDDENLY THE FRONT PART OF MY PANORAMIC SUNROOF EXPLODED. THERE WAS NO IMPACT OR ACCIDENT THAT CAUSED THIS. WE WEREN'T HIT BY ANY ROAD DEBRIS OR ANYTHING IT JUST EXPLODED WHILE DRIVING.
I WAS DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY AND STARTED TO HEAR AN NOISE FROM THE FRONT RIGHT WHILE I WAS ON A ROAD TRIP. HAD BEEN DRIVING FOR ABOUT 45 MILES AND MOVED OVER ONE LANE TO THE RIGHT AND FRONT RIGHT TIRE BLEW - HAD LESS THAN 16,000 MILES ON CAR. I GOT THE TIRE REPLACED AT A KIA DEALERSHIP AND WHEELS ALIGNED. THEN,DRIVING ON A MAIN ROAD, 45 MPH A FEW WEEKS LATER, GOT TO A PASSING ZONE, AND PASSED THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME AFTER ACCELERATING TO 65 DURING THE SHORT PASSING ZONE. AFTER PASSING THE CAR I TAPPED THE BREAKS TO SLOW BACK DOWN TO 45 AND THE TRACTION, BRAKE, AND TMZ LIGHTS ALL CAME ON. WHEN BRAKE ENGAGED, CAR DID NOT BRAKE AS NORMAL AND A ODD NOISE LIKE A GRINDING SOUND COULD BE HEARD COMING FROM THE FRONT RIGHT WHEEL AREA. TOOK THE CAR INTO DEALERSHIP, THEY RAN DIAGNOSTICS, SAID IT WAS A 'MISS-TRIPPED' SENSOR AND CLEARING IT CORRECTED THE ISSUE. I DROVE MY CAR LESS THAN 5 MILES DOWN THE ROAD AND ENGAGED THE BRAKE ON A 40 MPH ROAD AT A STOP LIGHT, ALL THREE LIGHTS CAME RIGHT BACK ON. HAD TO CALL AND TAKE CAR BACK IN AND THEY ENDED UP KEEPING MY CAR SEVERAL DAYS BEFORE SAYING I HAD A BAD TIRE SENSOR, BUT CAR WAS SAFE TO DRIVE. DROVE AGAIN, TO A NEIGHBORING CITY AND HAD BEEN DRIVING ABOUT 40 MILES AND FRONT LEFT TIRE BLEW. GOT IT TOWED BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP, WHO SAID TIRES BLOWING HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH CENSOR. GOT TIRE CHANGED AND ROTATION. PICKED UP CAR AND TIRE PRESSURE LIGHT CAME ON -LOW PRESSURE. NITRO WAS ADDED BY DEALERSHIP AND LIGHT WENT OFF. TURNED MY PRESSURE READER ON AND 2 MILES DOWN THE ROAD THE CAR WENT FROM 37 TO 45 PSI. I THINK BAD SENSOR IS CAUSING OVER INFLATING OF TIRES AT THE DEALERSHIP LEADING TO BLOWN TIRES.TESTED PRESSURE WITH SEPARATE PRESSURE READER AND TOO HIGH SO LET SOME AIR OUT, DROVE DOWN A HIGHWAY AT 50 MPH AND CAR 'BOTTOMED OUT' ON A ROLLING DIP IN THE ROAD SCRAPPING THE PLASTIC PROTECTION PIECE BEHIND THE FRONT RIGHT TIRE UNDER THE CAR
Of 5 reports about this part, 2 involved a crash and 0 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 5 of 5):
I was run off the road by a drunk driver I hit a tree at 35MPH MY AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY NOR DID MY SEAT BELT LOCK!!!! I NOW HAVE MULTIPLE INJURIES I HAVE BROKEN BONES ALL THROUGHOUT MY FACE!!!!! A SEVERE CONCUSSION!!!!! Any time I call the the customer care center and try and get information or call someone I either get hung up or gave the run around and then hung up on my mother in law has also tried calling and have received the same response this is so unacceptable and unprofessional.
Passenger seat belt goes off when no one is sitting there.
While driving, car in motion, Front Passenger Seat belt Audio Warning Periodically goes off without reason. Indicating seat is occupied & seat belt needs putting on. When seat has been unoccupied / clear from any type of weight on seat to trigger sensor. Audio warning will continue until seat belt is latched over the empty seat. Local KIA Service Dept was informed & could neither confirm or deny its faulty behavior for it did not present itself during time of service. They said, wiring looked fine but did no further testing. To be honest they showed no interest into seeing any real importance for my concern for them to feel any further investigation was warranted. Its happened again twice since that service visit be it last incident Aug 7th. My concern is.... if there is faulty wiring or sensor signals being crossed somewhere, whats to say there is a passenger or no passenger in that seat, to ensure the correct signal is getting to the passenger side air bags of when to correctly deploy if an accident should happen with passenger in seat? This situ is only recent starting about a year a go. So something has changed from being fine for 2 yrs up to the last year that's now showing some kind of seat belt / sensor failure. I'm unfamiliar with how that wiring system works & linked within it for me know what other things I might need to pay more attn to, looking for other signs that could be saying is direct cause to the prob. Unsure if this a simple solution or is something that others are experiencing with this year & model car & poss be a Manufacturer Part Default
I WAS IN A CAR ACCIDENT AS I WAS DRIVING ON I65 AND MY AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND MY SEAT BELT DIDN'T LOCK UP
THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE PASSENGER'S SEAT BELT. OFTEN TIMES THE ALARM GOES OFF WHEN NO ONE IS SEATING IN THE SEAT ESPECIALLY WHILE DRIVING. ALSO, WHEN SOMEONE IS SITTING IN THE SIT IT OVERLY LOCKS NO MATTER THE SPEED OF THE CAR, THUS CAUSING THE PASSENGER TO HAVE TO UNDO AND REDO THE SEAT BELT WHILE DRIVING. THE SEAT BELT HAS ITS OWN MIND.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 3 of 3):
I purchased my 2018 Kia Optima directly from the dealership, brand new. I've had the vehicle since then and have followed all of the warranty guidelines and only went to them for oil changes & other maintenance issues. Since February 2023 I've noticed where i've been having oil loss, but no sign of an oil leak. When I first noticed this, I would take a turn and my oil light would come on. I'd check the oil and it'd be low so I would refill my oil. However, this was happening 2 months after my last oil change which wasn't normal. I took the vehicle to Kia and they did an "Engine Consumption Test" where I had to drive for 1000 miles with a seal on the drain plug. After the 1000 miles, I came back and I was only 1/2 quart low. According to Kia it didn't meet the guidelines for engine replacement so they topped off my oil and I left. About 2 weeks after, my oil light came back on. I went back to Kia and spoke with the Shop Manager who stated I was 3 1/2 quarts low! He added oil to my engine and we did another round of the consumption test. When I came back in after that, I was 2 quarts low so that meant I qualified for a "Consumption Cleaning". They kept my vehicle overnight & I had to drive another 1000 miles. When I came in after my 1000 miles again I was only 1/2 quart low and therefore Kia said there wasn't an issue. I've reached out to multiple auto repair shops who state it is a Kia problem, that the engine is using it and processing it out of the exhaust. I don't know what else I have to do in order for Kia to honor the 20 year, 200k warranty. I have all documentation for all of my oil changes and from the consumption tests also.
ECM telling fuel pump to put too much gas, causing exhaust into cabin, unnoticed while in car, but hair and cloth reak of exhaust and getting headaches. Reduced mileage by 20+mpg from 30+ to 11mpg. BSD- no lights or codes thrown by 3rd party, but dealer said there was a code on the BSD. BSD was not working and no codes appeared. NO LIGHTS OR CODES FOR FUEL ISSUE OR BSD, but dealer said there is a recall that I cannot find for fuel and said there was a code for BSD, but it didn’t pop up on my husband’s code reader previously.
Engine overhead and stopped working in addition to it consuming massive amounts of oil without physically putting oil in. I've went to 2 dealerships who refuse to provide me with a new engine even though I'm covered under the engine extension warranty due to me having the knock sensor update done. I am now involving my attorney and will go to the news channels to inform how kia manufacturer has become a disgrace with not providing quality engines in their vehicles and don't want to be responsible for it. there's already a settlement going on for kia optimas and other cars they've made because of faulty engines. They can better believe I'm coming for them next with a lawsuit.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 3 of 3):
WHEN I GO TO ACCELERATE FROM A STOPPED POSITION; THE CAR STALLS AND TURNS OFF AND THEN IT TURNS ITSELF BACK ON. ADDITIONALLY, WHEN I DRIVE OVER 50 MPH THE CAR/TIRES START TO VIBRATE.
HELLO I AM NYCHOLE AND IN OCTOBER OF 2017 I PURCHASED A BRAND NEW 2018 KIA OPTIMA . NEVER REALLY HAD ANY ISSUES WITH IT UNTIL FRI NOV 22. AS I WAS LEAVING FROM WORK MY CAR DID A VERY ABRUPT JERK THAT I ACKNOWLEDGED BUT DIDN'T THINK ANYTHING OF IT BECAUSE MY GAS LIGHT HAD JUST CAME ON. BUT TODAY WHICH IS SUNDAY MY CAR'S EPS (ELECTRIC POWER STEERING) LIGHT FLASHED. WEIRDED OUT I LOOK AT THE MANUAL IN THE GLOVE COMPARTMENT. AS I EASED INTO MY APARTMENT COMPLEX THE CAR DID THAT SAME JERK, THE STEERING WHEEL WENT HARD TO MANAGE/STEER AND 6 OTHER LIGHTS STARTED BLINKING( PARKING BREAK LIGHT,EPB LIGHT ,ABS LIGHT,ESC LIGHT ,BATTERY CHARGE LIGHT, AND THE MASTER MALFUNCTION LIGHT) . I COULD NO LONGER MANIPULATE MY WHEEL SO I PULL FORWARD ONTO A OPEN SPOT AND PUT IT IN PARK. THE MOMENT I DID THIS THE CAR CUT OFF. IT WILL NOT TURN OVER, IT WILL NOT DO ANYTHING BESIDES TICK. I HAVE BEEN GREAT WITH MAINTENANCE BECAUSE IT WAS EITHER FREE OR DIRT CHEAP SO I ALWAYS TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP. I HAVE READ MORE REVIEWS OF PEOPLE GOING THROUGH SIMILAR THINGS. JUST IMAGINE IF I HAD MY CHILD IN THE CAR, ON THE INTERSTATE AND COULD NO LONGER CONTROL MY STEERING WHEEL OR THE CAR JUST DYING MID DRIVE ON THE INTERSTATE HOW DANGEROUS THIS ISSUE IS. MY CAR IS BASICALLY 3 YEARS OLD AND HAS LESS THAT 50 K. IT HAS NEVER BEEN WRECKED , TOWED OR DAMAGED STILL PRACTICALLY NEW. I HAVE ALSO READ SIMILAR RECALLS ABOUT ELECTRONIC ISSUES THAT ARE ONLY RELEVANT TO THE HYBRIDS . THE RECALL SEEMS SIMILAR.
TAKARA RECALL VEHICLE POWER DOWN WHILE I WAS DRIVING 45 MPH ON A CITY STREET THE CAR WAS STATIONARY IN MOTION THEN POWERED BACK UP WITHOUT ME TURNING THE IGNITION.WAS A VERY SCARY EXPERIENCE
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 1 of 1):
The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while attempting to accelerate from a standing start the vehicle had experience sever jerking and hesitation. Also, the vehicle has experience oil consumption problems and the contact constantly added engine oil. The cause of the failures were not determine. Also, the hood latch had malfunctioned and the hood could not opened to add oil to the engine. The cause of the failures were not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failures but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 121,000.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 1 of 1):
I purchased my 2018 Kia Optima directly from the dealership, brand new. I've had the vehicle since then and have followed all of the warranty guidelines and only went to them for oil changes & other maintenance issues. Since February 2023 I've noticed where i've been having oil loss, but no sign of an oil leak. When I first noticed this, I would take a turn and my oil light would come on. I'd check the oil and it'd be low so I would refill my oil. However, this was happening 2 months after my last oil change which wasn't normal. I took the vehicle to Kia and they did an "Engine Consumption Test" where I had to drive for 1000 miles with a seal on the drain plug. After the 1000 miles, I came back and I was only 1/2 quart low. According to Kia it didn't meet the guidelines for engine replacement so they topped off my oil and I left. About 2 weeks after, my oil light came back on. I went back to Kia and spoke with the Shop Manager who stated I was 3 1/2 quarts low! He added oil to my engine and we did another round of the consumption test. When I came back in after that, I was 2 quarts low so that meant I qualified for a "Consumption Cleaning". They kept my vehicle overnight & I had to drive another 1000 miles. When I came in after my 1000 miles again I was only 1/2 quart low and therefore Kia said there wasn't an issue. I've reached out to multiple auto repair shops who state it is a Kia problem, that the engine is using it and processing it out of the exhaust. I don't know what else I have to do in order for Kia to honor the 20 year, 200k warranty. I have all documentation for all of my oil changes and from the consumption tests also.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 1 of 1):
Was driving vehicle on freeway, around 65 mph, smooth road, no bumps, no indication of any road debris and suddenly heard a loud cracking/exploding noise which was extremely startling. After hearing some outside wind noise and the sound of glass pieces rattling, I realized that the glass panoramic sunroof must have broken somehow. Luckily I had the interior fabric shade closed, so no glass pieces entered the cabin to injure anyone. After getting out of the car, I could see around a 12 inch diameter hole in the sunroof glass. The remaining glass that was still attached was full of cracks. I have created a case with Kia Consumer Affairs and waiting to hear back from them. The vehicle has not received any outside inspection as of yet for this incident. There was no prior warning to this issue, no creaking noises or visible cracks.
Of 1 reports about this part, 0 involved a crash and 1 a fire.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 1 of 1):
The car caught on fire in our driveway
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 1 of 1):
ON NOVEMBER 7 WHILE DRIVING ON A FREEWAY IN SC I HAD A CATOSTROPHIC FAILURE IN MY FRONT LEFT TIRE AT 55 MILES PER HOUR. FORTUNATELY I WAS ABLE TO EXIT SAFELY AND GET MY VEHICLE OFF THE ROAD. THE TIRE WAS FILLED TO MANUFACTURER PSI AND WAS DRIVEN ONLY 13,151 MILES. THE SIDEWALL WAS BLOWN OUT. I DID NOT HIT ANYTHING TO CAUSE THIS FAILURE THE TIRE IS A KUMHO 215 R17 94 V. MY VEHICLE IS A 2018 KIA OPTIMA S. I BELIEVE I SHOULD HAVE A FULL REPLACEMENT FOR THIS FAILURE.
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 1 of 1):
I WAS DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY AND STARTED TO HEAR AN NOISE FROM THE FRONT RIGHT WHILE I WAS ON A ROAD TRIP. HAD BEEN DRIVING FOR ABOUT 45 MILES AND MOVED OVER ONE LANE TO THE RIGHT AND FRONT RIGHT TIRE BLEW - HAD LESS THAN 16,000 MILES ON CAR. I GOT THE TIRE REPLACED AT A KIA DEALERSHIP AND WHEELS ALIGNED. THEN,DRIVING ON A MAIN ROAD, 45 MPH A FEW WEEKS LATER, GOT TO A PASSING ZONE, AND PASSED THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME AFTER ACCELERATING TO 65 DURING THE SHORT PASSING ZONE. AFTER PASSING THE CAR I TAPPED THE BREAKS TO SLOW BACK DOWN TO 45 AND THE TRACTION, BRAKE, AND TMZ LIGHTS ALL CAME ON. WHEN BRAKE ENGAGED, CAR DID NOT BRAKE AS NORMAL AND A ODD NOISE LIKE A GRINDING SOUND COULD BE HEARD COMING FROM THE FRONT RIGHT WHEEL AREA. TOOK THE CAR INTO DEALERSHIP, THEY RAN DIAGNOSTICS, SAID IT WAS A 'MISS-TRIPPED' SENSOR AND CLEARING IT CORRECTED THE ISSUE. I DROVE MY CAR LESS THAN 5 MILES DOWN THE ROAD AND ENGAGED THE BRAKE ON A 40 MPH ROAD AT A STOP LIGHT, ALL THREE LIGHTS CAME RIGHT BACK ON. HAD TO CALL AND TAKE CAR BACK IN AND THEY ENDED UP KEEPING MY CAR SEVERAL DAYS BEFORE SAYING I HAD A BAD TIRE SENSOR, BUT CAR WAS SAFE TO DRIVE. DROVE AGAIN, TO A NEIGHBORING CITY AND HAD BEEN DRIVING ABOUT 40 MILES AND FRONT LEFT TIRE BLEW. GOT IT TOWED BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP, WHO SAID TIRES BLOWING HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH CENSOR. GOT TIRE CHANGED AND ROTATION. PICKED UP CAR AND TIRE PRESSURE LIGHT CAME ON -LOW PRESSURE. NITRO WAS ADDED BY DEALERSHIP AND LIGHT WENT OFF. TURNED MY PRESSURE READER ON AND 2 MILES DOWN THE ROAD THE CAR WENT FROM 37 TO 45 PSI. I THINK BAD SENSOR IS CAUSING OVER INFLATING OF TIRES AT THE DEALERSHIP LEADING TO BLOWN TIRES.TESTED PRESSURE WITH SEPARATE PRESSURE READER AND TOO HIGH SO LET SOME AIR OUT, DROVE DOWN A HIGHWAY AT 50 MPH AND CAR 'BOTTOMED OUT' ON A ROLLING DIP IN THE ROAD SCRAPPING THE PLASTIC PROTECTION PIECE BEHIND THE FRONT RIGHT TIRE UNDER THE CAR
Real owner reports filed with NHTSA (showing 1 of 1):
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE OPERATING THE VEHICLE AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE FORWARD COLLISION WARNING SYSTEM AND THE FORWARD COLLISION BRAKING SYSTEM DID NOT OPERATE AS INTENDED. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY TWO FEET BEHIND ANOTHER VEHICLE, THE CONTACT WAS NOT WARNED OF THE OTHER VEHICLE AND THE SYSTEM DID NOT STOP THE VEHICLE WHEN NECESSARY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL DEALER (MORITZ KIA FORT WORTH, 8501 I-30 WEST, FORT WORTH, TX) WHO WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND NO SOLUTION WAS OFFERED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 300. *TT
Many crash/fire reportsSome crash/fire reportsNo crash/fire in reports
Color = how serious (crash/fire involvement) · number = how many (share of all this car's reports). Tap any part to read real owner complaints.
How it compares
Lower than most complaint volume — 230 complaints ranks #4 of 24 popular models from the same year (fewest first · median 609).
9% of its complaints involved a crash or fire, vs 5% typical for its year — this one is fair to compare directly, because it doesn't depend on how many were sold.
Why raw complaint counts can mislead (and how we correct for it)
A best-selling car naturally collects more complaints than a rare one simply because there are more of them on the road — so a raw count alone can make a popular, reliable car look worse than a troubled niche one. That's why we show the rank alongside the crash/fire percentage (which doesn't depend on sales volume) and the same model's other years. Read all three together.
Computed by us from NHTSA complaint records for 24 popular same-year models · snapshot 2026-07-10. This comparison set is a sample, not every car sold.
Source: NHTSA — Owner Complaints · re-checked about every 24 hours
Crash-Test Safety Ratings
Official U.S. government 5-star crash-test results.
How to read these stars
These come from the government physically crash-testing this vehicle — front, side, and rollover — and scoring it 1 to 5 stars. Ratings are per body style, so a sedan and its coupe twin can differ. If a vehicle shows no rating, it usually means the government never tested that exact configuration — untested is not the same as unsafe, and we'll never blur that line.
Source: NHTSA — 5-Star Safety Ratings · re-checked about every 24 hours
Fuel Economy (MPG)
Official EPA estimates — the real numbers, not the brochure.
25–31Combined MPG
22–28City MPG
31–37Highway MPG
$2,000–$2,450Est. fuel cost / yr
Across 3 official EPA configurations · Fuel: Regular. Pick an engine/trim above for exact numbers.
Source: U.S. EPA / DOE — fueleconomy.gov · re-checked about every 24 hours