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When looking for a low-cost vehicle that provides reliability, a lot of drivers turn to the 2019 Kia Optima. However, the automaker claims that “this one’s just right,” when discussing the newer model. Does that imply that previous versions have faults? Our research shows this to be the case, especially when dealing with the poor electrical system, defective engine, malfunctioning air bags and shoddy structure. Consumers hoping to find a quality mid-size car are often drawn to the style of the 2018 Kia Optima. It has a sleek design and is hailed as a reliable option. Even the automaker claims that the new models are “driven to stand out.” Research shows that this model does stand out, but not for the reasons most expect. Instead, it is riddled with engine troubles, powertrain malfunctions and the possibility of an accident.
Click on other model year to view more problems: 2018 2021 2022
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NHTSA Complaints for the 2019 Kia Optima
| Complaint Category | Number of Complaints |
|---|---|
| Unknown Or Other | |
| Engine | |
| Air Bags | |
| Service Brakes | |
| Electrical System | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance: Warnings | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | |
| Structure:body | |
| Power Train | |
| Steering |
Problems with the Electrical System
Since the electrical system is responsible for running so much, it has to work correctly. Otherwise, owners find themselves dealing with lots of glitches. That’s precisely what is seen with the 2019 Kia Optima.
One NHTSA complaint states, “I bought my 2019 Optima brand new back in November. It is now June and I have had it back to the dealership 3 times for randomly not starting on me. I get the same answer every time. They don’t know what it is, nothing comes up on the computer when they plug it in. They say, ‘If it happens again, call us and we’ll take it in.’ Buying this car brand new and my payments being that of a Range Rover, I am extremely upset. To top it off, the back windshield is slipping down. I am over this car and I will never buy another Kia again. But, my fight is not over, sometime will have to be done. It also hesitates at times, feels as though it is struggling to go. Also two times while I was driving the car, the dash lit up with almost everything like, I was in a crash.”
It turns out that the electrical system issues become even more dangerous with the Optima. NHTSA Campaign Number 19V539000 states that there is a software error in the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist system that can disengage the brake assist function, increasing the chance of a collision. What is the point of these sophisticated safety systems if they aren’t even going to work?
Here are some actual complaints logged with the NHTSA about the 2019 Kia Optima Electrical Problems:
WHEN MY PHONE IS PLUGGED INTO THE CHARGER, MY SCREEN WILL GO BLACK ALL OF A SUDDEN, AND I HAVE TO TURN THE CAR OFF AND UNPLUG MY PHONE AND TURN THE CAR BACK ON FOR THE SCREEN TO COME BACK ON. ALSO, THERE HAVE BEEN SEVERAL OCCASIONS WHERE MY BRAKES LOCK UP ON ME, AND I ALMOST HIT THE PERSON IN FRONT OF ME. ESPECIALLY IN THE RAIN, AND I HAVE EVEN HAD TO SWERVE OFF THE ROAD TO AVOID A COLLISION. IT HAPPENS WHEN I AM IN MOTION DRIVING AND GO TO STOP. THE RADIO SCREEN THOUGH HAS TURNED OFF ON ME WHETHER I AM DRIVING OR IN PARK.
Problems with the Engine
The 2019 Kia Optima is considered a lower-budget vehicle, so no one expects that the engine will produce the same power as a supercar. However, owners do expect some level of reliability that they are not getting.
Just look at this NHTSA complaint. “The contact owns a 2019 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving 45 mph and merging onto the highway, the vehicle stalled without warning. The contact pumped the accelerator pedal several times and the vehicle responded. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed nor repaired. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 74,800.”
When discussing the premature failure of the engine, it’s clear that the automaker is aware of problems. In fact, Service Bulletin #PI1805_TSB talks about the need to install a Knock Sensor Detection System to prevent excessive connecting rod bearing damage that could destroy the engine. Sadly, many owners found out about this when it was just too late.
Here are some actual complaints logged with the NHTSA about the 2019 Kia Optima Engine Problems:
2019 KIA OPTIMA, IN JULY OF 2019.1ST INSTANCE, 2/4/2020 (LATE AFTERNOON) I DROVE BACK FROM NEW ALBANY IN AND AS SOON AS I GOT OFF THE FREEWAY ON KEYSTONE, I TRIED TO TURN A CORNER AND THE CEL LIGHT CAME ON FLASHING AND THE CAR WOULD BARELY ACCELERATE (HEAVY HESITATION). THEY SAID DO NOT DRIVE, GET A TOW.I DID, THEY HOOKED IT UP. AN ERROR TO CONTACT KIA ENG. THEY INDICATED ITS 1 OF 2 THINGS, ROCK SENSOR HARNESS/ROCK SENSOR.
Problems with the Air Bags
When driving in any newer vehicle, occupants expect to be protected by the standard air bags. However, that’s not always a system one can count on with the Kia Optima.
Here’s yet another NHTSA complaint to read. “The contact’s husband owns a 2019 Kia Optima. While driving 50 mph, the vehicle crashed into a deer that jumped in the middle of the road. The air bags did not deploy. A police report was not filed. The driver sustained neck and back pain and his daughter, who was seated behind the driver’s seat, sustained neck pain. The contact mentioned that both occupants would be taken to the emergency room for their injuries. The vehicle was towed to the contact’s residence. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or independent mechanic for diagnostic testing or repairs. The vehicle was currently waiting to be towed to a local body shop for repairs. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 3,168.”
Sadly, there aren’t any manufacturer communications related to the air bags at this time. It seems that the company doesn’t want to acknowledge that they can’t get the basic systems down. Since 1998, air bags have been standard in American cars, so this company has no excuse for the faulty system. They have had more than enough years to perfect the safety feature.
Here are some actual complaints logged with the NHTSA about the 2019 Kia Optima Air Bags Problems:
I WAS REAR ENDED ON THE FREEWAY. TRAFFIC CAME TO A COMPLETE STOP, BUT THE CAR BEHIND ME WAS GOING 40-50MPH AND DID NOT STOP IN TIME AND REAR ENDED ME AND PUSHED ME INTO THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME. MY AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY.
Problems with the Structure
The structure of a vehicle matters, during an accident and to reduce road noise. After all, no one wants to holler over road noise to talk to other occupants, but that’s what’s happening with the Optima.
Look at what this Edmunds review says. “Have brand new 2019 Kia Optima S. Road noise was really annoying. Dealer switched out Kumho 18″ tires for Hankook 18″ tires. NO DIFFERENCE. I then partially paid for a better tire (Continental LS). Road noise still can be heard. Something else wrong. I think the car has sport tuned suspension. Dealer says, no! Going to test another vehicle at a different dealer to compare noise. Be aware of this problem. Owned 2 Optima’s before and had no problems with road noise.”
Structure-related issues with the Optima go beyond road noise. In fact, Service Bulletin #VSC173_TSB states that some vehicles require a replacement for the front driver and passenger seatback frames. It turns out that the weld wasn’t performed correctly and it could detach. If this happens, occupants are in danger, plus could face an unusual amount of discomfort. With the air bags failing to deploy, seats falling apart, engines refusing to start and safety systems malfunctioning, is there any part of this car that works? It seems that the Optima isn’t even worth the small cost paid for it.
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Complaint Data
| Category | Air Bags |
| Date | Mar 23, 2023 |
| State | GA |
| Description | The contact owned a 2019 kia optima. The contact stated that while driving approximately 25-30 mph approaching an intersection, an unknown pickup t -boned the vehicle on the driver-side quarter panel. While depressing the brake pedal, the attention level high / collision warning message was displayed. The air bag did not deploy. The contact sustained injuries to her back and shoulder and she had several bruises. A police report was filed. There were no reported fire. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence then to a tow lot. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 93,228. The insurance company deemed the vehicle a total loss. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Mar 23, 2023 |
| State | GA |
| Description | My 2019 kia optim is starting to consume oil every 15 miles this is a problem that kia have with thousands of 2019, 2020 and 2021 they have bad engines in them and kia knows about the problem and refusing to do anything with the custom, you all need to make them have a recall and fix the problem with all those engines some vehicles only have 20,000 miles on them and have the same problem. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Mar 21, 2023 |
| State | CA |
| Description | Engine failure |
| Category | Forward Collision Avoidance |
| Date | Mar 13, 2023 |
| State | OH |
| Description | The contact owns a 2019 kia optima. The contact stated upon starting the vehicle, the forward collision avoidance warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who could not duplicate the failure. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle could not be repaired under nhtsa campaign number: 19v539000 (forward collision avoidance) since the vin was not included. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 99,000. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Feb 09, 2023 |
| State | TN |
| Description | engine oil light come on / low on engine oil |
| Category | Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Avoidance: Warnings, Service Brakes |
| Date | Feb 06, 2023 |
| State | MS |
| Description | To begin, there was a recall on the forward avoidance collision system. The fix was to have the system reset at the dealership. Almost like a system update. I had that done after multiple lights appeared on my dash. 5 months later, the lights would illuminate again periodically, but turn off after a few minutes of driving. Two months ago, the lights came on when I was traveling on our highway at about 45 mph. There was no cars in front of me, nor any objects. The automatic brake applied itself as I was turning off of this major highway. I hit the gas to try to turn off of the highway after the brake was applied, and my car wouldn't accelerate. Since then, the light has stayed on every time I turn my car on, and for the remainder of the time I'm driving it. The brake has also self engaged itself twice since then. It's a huge safety risk as someone could hit me from behind. The system update obviously didn't fix the issues. The kia dealership in my area, tameron kia, said that there was nothing they could do for me since they did the computer update. She was certain that it was a different issue, but it isn't. My car has 60,000 miles on it and have been dealing with this specific issue since 3 months after I purchased the car. It's not safe for my children and I, and something has got to be done about the issue. |
| Category | Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking, Service Brakes, Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Jan 26, 2023 |
| State | TX |
| Description | Abs light came on for no apparent reason and took car to kia dealership and was told it needs abs issue: “your car is going to need an abs actuator, this controls how the abs modulates the brakes when under dangerous braking conditions so that your brakes don't lock up..76. 56 just for that repair if you'd like us to replace it†and I searched online and do see that some 2019 kia models had a recall for this very issue, but my vin is not showing up as affected. The lights came on about 6 mos ago, cleared and then came back on again. Car is at moritz kia in fw, tx right now. |
| Category | Exterior Lighting |
| Date | Jan 21, 2023 |
| State | FL |
| Description | The afls forces the low beam headlights too low when passengers are in the back seat (see attachment for full details) |
| Category | Electrical System, Engine |
| Date | Nov 11, 2022 |
| State | MD |
| Description | This car was equipped with the theta ll engine and I believe that's what caused it because it was an electrical smoldering. The car has been signed over to the insurance company, it was totaled. If this had happened 30 minutes sooner, I would have been burned. Me and my daughter had luckily just got out of the car. No the problem has not been confirmed by a dealer. It has not been inspected by the manufacturer, but has been inspected by police and insurance. There was not any warning lamps or messages prior to the incident. |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Oct 07, 2022 |
| State | GA |
| Description | The paint on the roof of the 2019 kia optima is peeling back. Also, have paint that has let go around the hood. I inquired at the dealer at around 40,000 miles. The employee said that the paint was only warranted through the first 36,000 miles. I drive a lot of miles to work, and this was within the first year I purchased the vehicle. The employee said that the pearl white color was the one color that they saw the most complaints with the paint. |
| Category | Steering |
| Date | Sep 19, 2022 |
| State | WI |
| Description | Two thefts of my 2019 kia optima in less than one year; 9/12/2021 and 7/30/2022 due to kia's negligence in fixing a very obvious security flaw and lack of engine immobilizer. I have spent approximately text="Who are we? We are Lemberg Law, a Consumer Law Firm" smalltext="Lemberg Law is a consumer law firm helping victims of bad manufacturing and run-arounds from auto companies. We are ranked A+ by the BBB. Call our Helpline today! There is no charge unless we win." img="balance" color="green",500 of my own money between insurance deductibles and replacing items that were stolen from my vehicle in addition to the actual vehicle theft. The thefts caused over ,000 of damage between the two claims, and surely have depreciated the value of my car significantly. Thousands of kia customers are negatively affected by this negligence, and we are being punished and violated for owning compromised vehicles. I feel incredibly unsafe driving my vehicle anywhere knowing full well it could be stolen at any moment. |
| Category | Air Bags |
| Date | Sep 18, 2022 |
| State | CA |
| Description | On sept 1st I was in an accident. I hit a parked car. My car was totaled. I suffered a fractured sternum and possible concussion. All of airbags failed to deploy. Palo alto police record,22-02889 |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Sep 02, 2022 |
| State | FL |
| Description | The paint is chipping on the right side of the vehicle it is through the primer. |
| Category | Air Bags |
| Date | Sep 01, 2022 |
| State | KS |
| Description | The contact owned a 2019 kia optima. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 mph, several deers intercepted the lane, to prevent impact with them, she turned the steering wheel and crashed head-on into a telephone pole. No air bags deployed. The contact sustained a concussion when she hit her head on an unknown surface and was transported by an ambulance to an emergency room to seek medical attention. A police report was filed. The insurance company deemed the vehicle a total loss. The contact towed the vehicle to an autobody center. The vehicle was not diagnosed. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 49,596. |
| Category | Power Train |
| Date | Aug 25, 2022 |
| State | CA |
| Description | Double clutch failure replacement twice in 3 years transmission being replaced my son has same model and year of car and has had double clutch replaced once. Beat friend also owns same year and model kia with same double clutch issue transmission fails to engage from stopped position to starting off from dead start. Car begins to shake and shutter and the transmission kicks in when parked downhill, car will not engage into reverse and lunges forward. Serious problems with this models double clutch transmission. Internet search revealed this is problematic with kia double clutch transmission |
| Category | Electronic Stability Control:control Module |
| Date | Aug 19, 2022 |
| State | CT |
| Description | The contact owns a 2019 kia optima. The contact stated while driving approximately 70 mph, there were knocking sounds before the engine suffered a failure. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact pulled over safely and the vehicle was towed to a local dealer. The vehicle was diagnosed with an electronic stability control (esc) unit software not being updated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 62,000. |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Aug 15, 2022 |
| State | KY |
| Description | As soon as I pulled onto the parkway, I heard a loud bang almost like a gunshot. Pulled over to inspect the vehicle and my sunroof had exploded. No rocks or foreign objects. The sunroof looked as if it blew up from the inside out forming almost a “volcano†shape. After trying for an hour to get ahold of kia, they inform me this won't be covered under warranty. Filed a claim with insurance. This is very dangerous and if my visor was opened, I could have been cut to pieces. This could easily cause a wreck and danger myself and others |
| Category | Structure:body, Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Aug 14, 2022 |
| State | AZ |
| Description | The skid plate under the vehicle has two pieces. The main larger piece and a small piece that comes off to change the oil. The screws used to hold up the smaller part of the skid plate tend to puncture the oil pan because one of the screws holding the skid plate is directly underneath the oil pan. If people are unaware of the oil being gone it can seize the motor and stall the vehicle. After researching and looking at different forums, this is a common issue that takes place. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Jul 25, 2022 |
| State | CA |
| Description | Car ran perfectly. No indications on the dash cluster until the check engine light started flashing and car went into limp mode. Got to safety off freeway to a gas station lot. Parked car. Took video of the car running while recording the dashboard. Pushed the gas while in park to hear rod knock. It was 10pm. Had car towed home. 2 days later towed to dealer. Between time it broke down and I had towed to them. I found out about the knock sensor. I also joined a group on facebook with hundreds of people getting screwed over. There I learned about class action and oil consumption issues. Not on any oil change was I made aware of low oil. I check my oil levels and have a high class mechanic change my oil. So first the dealer calls me and says. Technician states no oil in engine. I ask. Well why was there no oil light on? I said if there was. I'd had had my car checked. I said only thing in was flashing check engine light at the moment of failure. He advised. No the engine lights not on but oil light is. I emailed him my dash cluster video. He calls me and says. Oh you're right. Sorry miscommunication with technician. I also sent picture of oil dipstick that showed there was oil filled to the top indicator. Advisors response was basically a shrug. They asked for most recent 6 oil change receipts. I furnished 8. They said sludge in engine. I asked for pics. After 6 requests I received 2 pics that do not match up with pics I took of same part. So at this point per at least 200 people and myself. Kia and hyundai are voiding warranties and not backing up their crappy engines. We need help urgently. I have not paid car payment since breakdown. I am 00 in the hole paying for rental that I was told would be reimbursed once engine replacement was approved. Well they suck. Many more in my position or worse now. This is criminal and fraudulent |
| Category | Electrical System, Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Jul 13, 2022 |
| State | FL |
| Description | I have had my ac have 4 problems now and continue to have different problems since I bought the car a little over 6 mo ago. Kia is a pain and I'm constantly taking my vehicle in. The first time it wasn't major, the second time it was something electrical with the ac that tore apart my whole dashboard. Now I have a mold and mildew smell in my car and water leaking excessively under my car. My daughter who is 5 yrs old hasn't had ac for multiple weeks and now we are inhaling mold and mildew. I changed the cabin filter that was in the car and it had water stains all over it. This is a safety concern for the health of me and my child and I want things made right. My lawyer has been contacted and will proceed if nothing is done. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Mar 26, 2022 |
| State | NC |
| Description | We own 2 2019 kia optimas, one my 20yr old daughter drives. On her way to school she smelled a burning smell. On her way home at a dangerous intersection she smelled a strong burning smell & the car just stopped. I told her to get out of the car quickly, she had to climb to the right side as it was too unsafe to exit from the left. Thankfully she wasn't on a 55 mile/hr road bc it just stopped abruptly & surely would have been hit as brake lights would not have warned. The car was towed to the dealership where it was purchased & under warranty on friday 3/18/22. Saturday 3/19/22 I went to inquire what happened & was told by the service advisor that it started once, there was a burning smell coming from the engine & the engine was only running on 2 cylinders & stopped. He said they created a ticket, which I came to know that they were conferring with kia engineers by kia consumer affairs & I also created a case with. We did research & found a class action suit that was settled describing the exact problem that we experienced, however bc it was settled, kia was never had to issue a broad recall, so if your 2019 optima experienced this very serious problem of engine failure & fires after 11/30/2021, they say kia will be handling the cases on a rolling basis, however we just got the run around & the car remains there today 3/26/22 unfixed & the dealership is trying to say it's just a fuel pump & if that was the case, they wouldn't need 8 days waiting for kia engineers to be fixed. In the settlement, kia was also noted to be denying proper fixes for this serious issue with cars still under warranty. We were denied a rental car & they will not call us. This is my daughter's life, please help us. The other 2019 kia optima that I drive was brought to the same dealership under warranty complaining of the engine sputtering & jumping, they did nothing & said it should be fine however it's still doing it & my daughter is now driving this potentially dangerous car to school. This vehicle has been there since 03/18/22 & it's 0 |
| Category | Structure:body, Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Jan 17, 2022 |
| State | FL |
| Description | Refer to all the complaints of the pearl white paint flaking. I am filing another complaint and the dealership is not helping. Please help! Https://www. Google. Com/search? Q=kia+pearl+white+paint+recall&rlz=1c5chfa_enus970us971&oq=kia+perl+white+pai&aqs=chrome. 2. 69i57j0i13l2j0i22i30l7. 6591j0j4&sourceid=chrome&ie=utf-8. |
| Category | Structure:body |
| Date | Dec 22, 2021 |
| State | FL |
| Description | Paint is bubbling and chipping. When I call the dealer I get voicemails or a sales rep telling me its not covered despite the warranty manual stating it is. |
| Category | Forward Collision Avoidance: Warnings |
| Date | Nov 30, 2021 |
| State | VA |
| Description | The forward collision system failed in my kia 2019 optima. I was driving and the lights come on the forward collision lights and the engine turned off I had no control over the vehicle I couldn't even turn the wheel. It turned right on its own and threw me up on a bank and I rolled twice. The car was out of control. I've never been so terrified in my life. The safety measure failed and nearly cost my life. My brakes locked up as well and I'm lucky to be alive. This was uncontrollable the car was in control and it was wrong. I'm not sure if it was the forward collison or the traction control and there were no warning lights ever on this was a new vehicle. I have witnesses that seen it someone pulled me out the vehicle bc my doors were locked. The car is currently deemed a total loss by state farm and is in pulaski at iaa #5409946490. Stock # 31768854. Please help me get this out for other kia owners the safety issues life or death. There was a police report and I do have pictures. I have reached out to kia many times and they will not help me or inspect it. I'm at a loss of what to do. Please help me kia has confirmed safety issues with this model and year with the forward collision error. Although I didn't know this until after the accident and I researched it. |
| Category | Service Brakes |
| Date | Nov 30, 2021 |
| State | TN |
| Description | My car didn't stop the brakes wouldn't stop I hit a stationary tractor I got a ticket due to me hitting the light pole too |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Nov 29, 2021 |
| State | PA |
| Description | Optima sxl, 2019, 5,678 miles. When using the air conditioning, liquid on passenger side fills up on my mate about 1/2 inch. Took to dealer three times. States the hose gets clogged and they have to clear this. Now car starting to smell like mold/mildew. Rug is getting wet. They did not want to detail the call. Service person tells me to bring it back and they will unclog it. But I want it fix not keep coming back to unclog the hose. They stated this happens all the time. This sees to be a problem to me. It's a new vehicle. What can I do? |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Nov 29, 2021 |
| State | CO |
| Description | My car has been broken into and stolen twice by the same people because of how easy it is to steal it (kia and hyundai). Kia hasn't fixed the issue of their car door locks can be busted with a screen driver and the ignition can too. My car has been stolen twice the same way they bust my door lock bust my ignition and steal the car. Kia won't even acknowledge the issue despite their being many complaints about the same thing happening to other peoples cars. Filed insurance claims both times and both times the car has been recovered |
| Category | Forward Collision Avoidance: Warnings |
| Date | Nov 18, 2021 |
| State | MO |
| Description | My daughter hit a deer at 65 mph causing total loss 5 miles prior to the accident the forward collision warning light came on stating it was inactive due to the sensor being blocked or damaged. |
| Category | Air Bags |
| Date | Nov 15, 2021 |
| State | FL |
| Description | Wow |
| Category | Air Bags |
| Date | Nov 15, 2021 |
| State | FL |
| Description | Struck by heavy vehicle in an intersection; t-boned in the left front — by the right front of other vehicle which ran a red light. I have numerous injuries to my left side, and I have a damaged heart because none of my airbags deployed during the crash. The corner where I moved from when the traffic signal turned green has a severely blocked view where I sat at a red light. There's a highway barrier fence that stretches alongside the road I was traveling, and this fence extends beyond the stop line for that traffic signal; it even stretches up to the sidewalk/crosswalk. That fence is completely covered with the heavy cover of vegetation/vines. Even at night, there is no visibility through that fence, can't even see headlamps of another vehicle at night. |
| Category | Forward Collision Avoidance: Warnings, Seat Belts, Wheels |
| Date | Oct 20, 2021 |
| State | NJ |
| Description | I just think theres some sort of a tech issue with my electronic dashboard. My passenger seatbelt sign goes on and beeps incessantly when there is no passenger in the seat. My caution alert button comes on saying I have low tire pressure when it's only one number less than all the other tires. My oil change reminder never comes on. Today I was driving normally and the car in front of me barely tapped their breaks (and I was not close to them at all) and the collision alert started beeping. My car randomly gets cold and the ac smells like it's on, but it's not (the button isn't lit nor did I turn it on) it normally doesn't allow me to turn the outside air button on/off. Like in the winter when it's freezing outside and I wasn't to press the button to only circulate the inside air in the car, it doesn't allow me and I have to freeze and be uncomfortable in my own car. |
| Category | Electrical System, Seat Belts, Service Brakes |
| Date | Sep 30, 2021 |
| State | GA |
| Description | Brakes don't feel right some times when I stop. My passage side seat belt dangs for no reason even when there nothing on my set. And ever once in a blue moon I can hear a dang dang noise idk where it's coming from but it's very soft sound. |
| Category | Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Avoidance: Warnings, Service Brakes |
| Date | Aug 19, 2021 |
| State | CA |
| Description | Out of no where the front collision avoidance assist came on while driving as well as the automatic emergency braking sensor came on I had my kids in the car no accident or anything |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Jul 03, 2021 |
| State | CA |
| Description | Ther are two problems with my car when my phone is connected via usb to the vehicle the screen turn black and completely shut off while driving the other issue is the forward collision when there's a car in front of me and I go to put on my for my brakes the car beats and slides rather than breaking |
| Category | Electrical System, Engine |
| Date | May 09, 2021 |
| State | IN |
| Description | I've had this car going on three years sometimes not all the time I will go to start it and it will barely start so I took it to the dealership three times when I got my oil change and they checked the battery but they're saying the battery is good and the starting system the car will just be sitting in my garage and I try to start it it just sounds like it's barely starting and then the next time I started it's fine |
| Category | Electrical System, Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Apr 28, 2021 |
| State | MI |
| Description | The cars usb port always disconnects from the cell phone cord. It cuts off my sirisxm and maps. I have to re-plug in the cell cord to have the things come back on. This happens while the car is moving both on city and highway. When I was at a kia dealership there was someone else that had the same problem. The cell phone store said they receive complaints about from their other customers. Not sure when it started. It seems like since I bought it. There are over 120,000 miles on my car. Over the smallest bump this can happen. If I put my cell on my car window holder it happens less frequently. I have bought new cords and a new cell and it still happens. |
| Category | Service Brakes, Vehicle Speed Control |
| Date | Apr 28, 2021 |
| State | TX |
| Description | I was driving up a hill and as I reached the top of the incline, my car stopped accelerating. I then attempted to use my brakes and I barely tapped them, but they reacted as if I slammed on my breaks. I took my foot off of the brakes and I began rolling backwards even though my car was still in drive. My brakes were then locked, I put my car in park and then turned off & then back on my car without removing the key. I then put my car back into drive, however, my gas pedal was still not working. I then turned my car off again, removed the key, put the key back, then restarted and went back into drive and it began to work again. There was not an issue after that. |
| Category | Service Brakes |
| Date | Mar 03, 2021 |
| State | CA |
| Description | The brakes did not engage when applied. The road was dry. Speed was 30 mph or less when I attempted to stop at a light. There were no cars ahead of me, and I had plenty of time and room for a regular steady deceleration. The brakes did not engage. Just before I crossed into the crosswalk the car began to buck and the brake pedal forcibly kicked back exactly four times, and the car finally came to a stop. This happened on a state highway that also serves as a main street running through downtown. I was traveling on a straight section of road. I had the car towed to the dealership. I have owned the car, purchased new, for 19 months. Mileage is 17,325. The dealership can find nothing wrong and says the computer didn't register the event. We assume the brakes failed and antilock brakes engaged in an extrordinary manner. I have no documentation as the car is still in the shop 37 odd days later. They still say they have no idea what malfunctioned. |
| Category | Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking |
| Date | Jan 27, 2021 |
| State | FL |
| Description | Tl* the contact owned a 2019 kia optima. The contact stated that while upon making a left turn at 20 mph, the automatic emergency braking system independently activated and abruptly stopped without warning. Due to the failure, the vehicle behind him hit him from behind which pushed his vehicle into a 270 degree angle. The contact stated that the passenger side airbags deployed; however, his driver side airbags did not. The contact stated that he had hit his head on the driver side visor; however, he did not seek medical attention for the injury. A police report was filed at the scene. The vehicle was totaled as a result of the accident and was towed to his insurance company's collision center. The dealer nor the manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had been destroyed. The failure mileage was approximately less than 200. The vin was not available. |
| Category | Engine, Steering |
| Date | Nov 30, 2020 |
| State | MS |
| Description | I purchased on my 2019 kia optima on 6/19. And since then off and on the car has experience intermittent starting issues. Now I have taken the car to two different dealers and neither one can find the problem. When pressing the stop/start button the car would hesitate to start no lights or codes are stored in the computer. I have contacted kia about the issue all I was ever told was take it to the dealer and let them inspect it. The dealer would reset and update firmware. That would last for a minute but eventually the car would go back into the same thing of hesitating. The car has been into the dealership multiple times for the same issue kia has opened case after case but no solution. The car is considered a lemon by state statues. Not one time has kia offered to take the vehicle the only thing I'm told that if it happens again bring it back. I would spend more and miles taking the car to the dealership. There is also an issue with the wheel alignment the left rear wheel always need to be aligned I'm not sure why but when I take the car for an alignment that wheel is always out of specs. |
| Category | Forward Collision Avoidance: Warnings, Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Nov 24, 2020 |
| State | FL |
| Description | Last night a warning message popped up that said there was an issue with the front crash collision sensor and it was turning off. The warning lights stayed on while driving home and this morning it was off but popped back up after around 15 minutes of driving. |
| Category | Forward Collision Avoidance: Warnings, Lane Departure: Warning, Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Nov 06, 2020 |
| State | FL |
| Description | Was driving on I 95 when the vehicle pulled me into the median totaling my car. I was unable to apply brakes and unable to turn my steering wheel in the other direction to avoid the collision. |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Oct 30, 2020 |
| State | MA |
| Description | From day one I've been complaining about the driver assist front camera shutting off by itself while I'm driving. I was told by my kia dealer that there is no problem. It has reoccurred many more times since. It happened again. The orange display light goes off. |
| Category | Electrical System, Steering |
| Date | Oct 07, 2020 |
| State | TX |
| Description | Parked. Started car & all dash lights lit up. Tried restarting no change. When backing up there was no power steering. Turned off ignition, pumped gas pedal 3 times, restarted & it seemed to fix problem. Took car in for electrical recall 1 week later & was told this might fix the problem. 2 weeks later it occurred again. Same solution used with success. |
| Category | Electronic Stability Control, Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Aug 29, 2020 |
| State | GA |
| Description | I was driving on 8/28/2020 and a warning light came across the dashboard that read my forward collision camera was not working and it stayed lit for about 3 minutes while driving and eventually went off before I parked the car. I am afraid to drive the car if the braes may fail. The vehicle was in motion initially approaching a stop light when the message came across the dashboard. I was on a city street driving. |
| Category | Unknown Or Other, Visibility:sun/moon Roof Assembly |
| Date | Jun 05, 2020 |
| State | AZ |
| Description | Panoramic sunroof exploded while driving 6/5/2020 while in motion it has been 110 degrees in phoenix, az for the past week. *tr |
| Category | Electronic Stability Control |
| Date | May 21, 2020 |
| State | IL |
| Description | Was driving on a city road and a car stopped in front of us (while only going 25mph) then the caution front sensor lights came on. The car had a notification that popped up said front camera is blocked. Stayed on for 5 minutes then just shut off. *tr |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Apr 29, 2020 |
| State | VA |
| Description | Hard starting and when it does start it acts like it sluggish. You can turn it off and back on and it is fine. |
| Category | Power Train |
| Date | Mar 09, 2020 |
| State | VA |
| Description | I have a 2019 kia optima. In december I was going up a hill and the vehicle started violently shaking. I was pressing on the gas and not going anywhere. I had to put it in reverse to back down 2 rods to get back to my driveway. Had it towed to dealer and they said they could not figure out what was wrong. It was not showing any "codes". Then on 02/26/2020 the check engine light came on. Had it towed to kia dealer and they said it was showing a bunch of codes. They said they cleaned the "knocker" and was communicating with the tech line and was told to clear data and relearn system. Once they did that the check engine light went away and no more codes displayed. On 03/07/2020 the check engine light came on at night. Dealer was closed by then and they are closed on sunday. Made a call today to get it back in the shop. They said I can bring it tomorrow. I should not have this much trouble with a 2019. Please tell me |
| Category | Engine, Vehicle Speed Control |
| Date | Feb 28, 2020 |
| State | FL |
| Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2019 kia optima. The contact stated that while driving at 45 mph and merging onto the highway, the vehicle stalled without warning. The contact pumped the accelerator pedal several times and the vehicle responded. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed nor repaired. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 74,800. |
| Category | Engine, Vehicle Speed Control |
| Date | Feb 27, 2020 |
| State | IN |
| Description | 2019 kia optima, in july of 2019. 1st instance, 2/4/2020 (late afternoon) I drove back from new albany in and as soon as I got off the freeway on keystone, I tried to turn a corner and the cel light came on flashing and the car would barely accelerate (heavy hesitation). They said do not drive, get a tow. I did, they hooked it up. An error to contact kia eng. They indicated its 1 of 2 things, rock sensor harness/rock sensor. 1st they said they would replace the sensor but they only replaced the harness. Mileage on this date 2/7/2020 8,801 miles. Picked up my car on february 7, 2020. 2nd instance 2/24/2020 @3pm(ish)- return trip to indianapolis from lafayette (round trip) apx 2:59p on the way back to work, I got off in zionsville to run to the store. I stopped at the light and tried to turn right, the exact same scenario as the 1st instance. Cel light, major hesitation and very little acceleration. Called service at kia to get my rental ready and I was on my way in to the shop. The rental was ready and it was late monday. He contacted who is the gm called me 2/24/2020 @6:16pm to say that he will look into this asap in the morning. He also indicated that he is part owner of lia dealer. On monday evening I contracted kia corp office to file a case # same evening, I text my salesman but the gmcalled 8:07a explained its on the rack and the engineers have been contacted for the resolution and he will call me when they know more. Tues gm and gm of all local service depts) called and explained the issue, attempt at a resolution change the sensor and driving 10 miles to make sure it fixes it. How is 10 miles going to 'test' he agreed 30 mile test. He said if this sensor fails they (kia corp) will replace the engine! Well the sensor is working 2 days so far. (last time it took 11 days and 1,177 miles to fail) I picked up car on 2/26/20. L |
| Category | Electrical System, Service Brakes |
| Date | Feb 22, 2020 |
| State | CA |
| Description | When my phone is plugged into the charger, my screen will go black all of a sudden, and I have to turn the car off and unplug my phone and turn the car back on for the screen to come back on. Also, there have been several occasions where my brakes lock up on me, and I almost hit the person in front of me. Especially in the rain, and I have even had to swerve off the road to avoid a collision. It happens when I am in motion driving and go to stop. The radio screen though has turned off on me whether I am driving or in park. |
| Category | Power Train, Vehicle Speed Control |
| Date | Dec 19, 2019 |
| State | GA |
| Description | If I slow down then speed up it takes off slow. If I go up a hill it putts and when I drive it just feels like its puttering the whole time. Took it to dealership of course they didn't find anything but this is a new car I know something is wrong. I just got the car in march drove fine no accidents or anything and it's kind of disappointing that my car is like this but know one knows what's wrong. |
| Category | Air Bags |
| Date | Nov 25, 2019 |
| State | KS |
| Description | Tl* the contact's husband owns a 2019 kia optima. While driving 50 mph, the vehicle crashed into a deer that jumped in the middle of the road. The air bags did not deploy. A police report was not filed. The driver sustained neck and back pain and his daughter, who was seated behind the driver's seat, sustained neck pain. The contact mentioned that both occupants would be taken to the emergency room for their injuries. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or independent mechanic for diagnostic testing or repairs. The vehicle was currently waiting to be towed to a local body shop for repairs. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 3,168. |
| Category | Service Brakes |
| Date | Nov 20, 2019 |
| State | WA |
| Description | I was in two low speed rear ended crashes because the cib didn't engage and I had no breaking power. One who on the high way and once in an exit ramp |
| Category | Steering |
| Date | Nov 17, 2019 |
| State | NV |
| Description | Lane safety control system makes unusual turns while I'm driving resulting me having to correct. In some situations vehicle almost turned into cars in nearby lane. Incidents have happened both on surface streets at speeds less than 55 miles per hour and on the freeway at speeds exceeding 55 miles per hour |
| Category | Air Bags, Structure:body |
| Date | Oct 25, 2019 |
| State | CA |
| Description | I was rear ended on the freeway. Traffic came to a complete stop, but the car behind me was going 40-50mph and did not stop in time and rear ended me and pushed me into the vehicle in front of me. My airbags did not deploy. |
| Category | Air Bags |
| Date | Oct 12, 2019 |
| State | PA |
| Description | I was driving one night on a residential street and a deer ran out in front of my car. I slammed on my brakes but still hit the deer which damaged my front drivers side fender and lights. I was traveling at 25 miles per hour. I didn't call the ambulance at the time because I had to go right back to work. At the time I also did not think that the accident affected me but I believe that due to the whiplash from slamming on the brakes that it did in fact damage my spine. I kept going to the doctor's and hospitals to see what was going on with my body but none of them really had any drainage answers. Just recently had an emergency surgery on my upper back. The diagnosis was spinal stenosis. I had no prior health problems before this incident. My airbags did not deploy upon impact and I want some answers to that. Also after this incident my back tire blew out on the highway. There was no spare tire, flares for safety or anything when I looked in my trunk I am sure this is a whole different issue all together before all of this I had faith in kia and now I doubt that kia cares or is concerned with the well being of buying and paying customers. Kia financial treated very badly as well. My mom, my dad and my step mother all drive kia's a's well. Is it time for us to switch up car choices? |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Sep 22, 2019 |
| State | KY |
| Description | I was looking on credit karma and read there is a recall on my vehicle. I had no clue and haven't had anyone contact me in regards to this! I'm concerned for the safety of my family |
| Category | Air Bags |
| Date | Aug 18, 2019 |
| State | MD |
| Description | Purchased 2019 kia optima ex on 4/27/2019 from a kia dealership in hagerstown,md. After research on this website we find out that there is an investigation for airbags not deploying on this vehicle in crashes. This investigation was initiated before the purchase of this vehicle. How is a dealership allowed to sell a vehicle with a potential safety issue? A dealership/manufacturer should have to let the purchaser know before they buy the vehicle. We would have never purchased the vehicle if we would have known this! |
| Category | Visibility/wiper |
| Date | Jul 30, 2019 |
| State | SC |
| Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2019 kia optima. While driving 40 mph, the fixed pane glass abruptly fractured. There were no injuries. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer, but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted. The failure mileage was 3,100. The vin was invalid.*bf *as |
| Category | Electrical System, Engine, Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Jun 27, 2019 |
| State | NJ |
| Description | I bought my 2019 optima brand new back in november. It is now june and I have had it back to the dealership 3 times for randomly not starting on me. I get the same answer every time. They don't know what it is, nothing comes up on the computer when they plug it in. They say, "if it happens again, call us and well take it in". Buying this car brand new and my payments being that of a range rover, I am extremely upset. To top it off, the back windshield is slipping down. I am over this car and I will never buy another kia again. But, my fight is not over, something will have to be done. It also hesitates at times, feels as though it is struggling to go. Also, two times while I was driving the car, the dash lit up with almost everything like, I was in a crash, the exclamation point, etc. |
| Category | Power Train |
| Date | Mar 14, 2019 |
| State | PA |
| Description | I have had this vehicle for a little over two months. It currently has 1600 miles on it. The transmission was replaced once and I am still experiencing studdering and shaking. Have another appointment on 3/15. Even have kia customer service involved. |
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About the Author:
Brian Jones spent more than 20 years working as an ASE Certified Master Tech and Parts Specialist at multiple dealerships. Brian has become an authority in the industry, traveling across the country to consult for car dealerships and contributing his expertise as a writer for several major automotive publications. In his spare time, Brian enjoys working on pickup trucks, muscle cars, Jeeps and anything related to motorsports.
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I just purchased my 2019 kia optima it had 66000 miles on it I drove it for 2 weeks the oil light came on and it was 3 quarts low on oil and I have had it back at the dealership for service for 3 weeks and nothing being done about it