Avoid: 2019, 2018, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2010 · Best recent: 2020
20 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 20 model years, the Kia Optima has 8,490 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 64 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and electrical system. 2013 drew the most complaints (1,440), 2010 the fewest (75).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Kia Optima vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $8,155–$12,889.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 152 |
| 2019 | 634 |
| 2018 | 478 |
| 2017 | 305 |
| 2016 | 761 |
| 2015 | 1,021 |
| 2014 | 620 |
| 2013 | 1,440 |
| 2012 | 1,028 |
| 2011 | 628 |
| 2010 | 75 |
| 2009 | 116 |
| 2008 | 144 |
| 2007 | 167 |
| 2006 | 155 |
| 2005 | 144 |
| 2004 | 225 |
| 2003 | 144 |
| 2002 | 110 |
| 2001 | 143 |
Highest: 2013 (1,440 complaints). Lowest: 2010 (75).
Mixed sentiment with a strong generational divide. Long-term owners of earlier models (pre-2011) report exceptionally high reliability and satisfaction, with examples reaching over 270,000 miles with minimal maintenance beyond oil changes.
Connecting rod bearing failure leading to seized engine, often around 100,000-150,000 miles; also severe oil consumption. Covered under a manufacturer settlement with extended warranty, but process is often lengthy.
Engine burns oil at a high rate, potentially leading to damage if not monitored closely.
Long repair times (weeks to months), difficulties with dealer service departments, out-of-pocket costs for rental cars and misdiagnoses despite warranty coverage.
Notably in 2020 models, described as firm and transmitting too much road feedback, a change from older, softer-riding sedans.
Power-folding mirrors and window motors failing.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Optima. Individual model years are broken down above.
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