2014 Kia Optima Problems & Owner Complaints

Engine 280 7 crash 29 fire 9 injury

“Summer 2017 The engine failed while driving with my family. The engine seized and a fire was engulfed. I was in the interstate and we feared for our life. Out of town visiting family we were stranded in another state for a month waiting for repairs. Kia took the vehicle and replaced the engine with another faulty engine that has seized several times while commuting. I have been living in fear and anxiety since this incident. I never know if I start my engine if I will loose my life. Summer 2023 3 teenagers watched a viral tic tok challenge and learned how faulty the cylinder that Kia installe…”
NHTSA complaint #11548045, 2017 · fire · 2 injury(ies)

“On 7/13/26 around 0715 my son was driving our 2014 Kia optima when it caught fire and burned from the engine to the back of the car. Fire dept and law enforcement had to respond and the vehicle along with thousands of dollars of property was destroyed by the fire. This vehicle is a total loss and I’m trusting an investigation as to I believe their fire started due to the engjbe and electrical faults of Kia motors.”
NHTSA complaint #11750155, 2026 · fire · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE REVERSING AT 5 MPH, SMOKE WAS SEEN COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. AS A RESULT THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE. THE LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED AND EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. A FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED SCRAPS AND BRUISES FROM ESCAPING THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO JIM MARSH KIA (8555 W CENTENNIAL PKWY, LAS VEGAS, NV 89149 (702) 946-1000) BUT A CAUSE OF THE FIRE WAS NOT PROVIDED TO THE CONTACT. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V224000 (ENGINE AND…”
NHTSA complaint #11144563, 2018 · fire · 1 injury(ies)

Steering 94 1 crash 1 injury

“I LEFT THE DEALER LOT AT CLOSING TIME 2/5/2021 THE TRACTION LIGHT AND BRAKE LIGHTS WARNINGS WERE ON THE ABS LIGHT THE CAR BRAKES SKIDDED UPON APPLYING BRAKES DRIVING AT A SLOW SPEED THE CAR SHOOK WHILE APPLYING BRAKES AND IT FELT AS THOUGH THE ENTIRE MOTOR WAS GOING TO FALL OUT . LATER MY 17 YEAR OLD WHOM HAS DRIVEN FOR 2 YEARS WAS DRIVING A FEW MILES FROM HOME SHE SAID THE STEERING WENT OUT THE BRAKES WENT OUT SHE SKID ACROSS TO THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ROAD DID NOT HIT ANYTHING YET THE ENTIRE ENGINE AND ENTIRE FRONT END OF THE CAR CAME APART THE FRAME AND ALL . SHE COULD EASILY HAVE BEEN KIL…”
NHTSA complaint #11396011, 2021 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“Steering coupler issue. When turning the steering wheel. It is making a clunking noise even when in park and making it feel not smooth to turn the wheel either way. Very distracting and awkward when driving. When speeding up you can feel the issue with the steering coupler more. You can feel the noise and clunk feel when driving over bumps and turns. There has been a campaign/recall for other makes and models. But this car hasn’t been included.”
NHTSA complaint #11750123, 2026

“Steering violently shakes at 65 mph. Steering wheel makes a clunking noise when moving side to side.”
NHTSA complaint #11735521, 2026

Unknown Or Other 87 3 crash 6 fire

“On 3 July 2025, while driving the car suddenly lost power and started smoking under the hood. I pulled over, exited the vehicle, and an engine fire started a minute later. The fire department put out the fire. The safety of myself and my child were at risk. We were driving at 40 miles per hour when the car lost power and caught fire. There were no warning lights. The car was towed to an independent repair shop to be evaluated, but results have not yet been gathered. There are known issues and recalls associated with 2014 Kia optima and with its engine losing power and catching fire, but my VIN…”
NHTSA complaint #11671213, 2025 · fire

“The contact's sister owns a 2014 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked unattended, it spontaneously caught fire. The ABS warning indicator light had previously been turned on and off. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. A police report was filed. The fire department was able to extinguish the fire. There were no reported injuries, crashes, or air bag deployments. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V100000 ( Fuel System, Gasoline). The failure mile…”
NHTSA complaint #11521327, 2023 · fire

“March 15, 2023 I Ania Covington as well as my mother Ramona Allen went to the Kia dealership in Southern Pines, NC at 10am to get a recall fixed on my car (fuel line), an oil change, air filters changed, as well as a valve gasket replacement (recall was free, everything else paid out of pocket). I received my car back at 4pm the same day, when I pulled off the lot not even a mile away my car was smoking from the exhaust pipes. I went back to ask them was it going to continue to do that, the mechanic as well as the advisor told me it’s just the old oil burning off. As I was driving home I began…”
NHTSA complaint #11515618, 2023 · fire

Electrical System 59 1 crash 8 fire 5 injury

“Summer 2017 The engine failed while driving with my family. The engine seized and a fire was engulfed. I was in the interstate and we feared for our life. Out of town visiting family we were stranded in another state for a month waiting for repairs. Kia took the vehicle and replaced the engine with another faulty engine that has seized several times while commuting. I have been living in fear and anxiety since this incident. I never know if I start my engine if I will loose my life. Summer 2023 3 teenagers watched a viral tic tok challenge and learned how faulty the cylinder that Kia installe…”
NHTSA complaint #11548045, 2017 · fire · 2 injury(ies)

“On 7/13/26 around 0715 my son was driving our 2014 Kia optima when it caught fire and burned from the engine to the back of the car. Fire dept and law enforcement had to respond and the vehicle along with thousands of dollars of property was destroyed by the fire. This vehicle is a total loss and I’m trusting an investigation as to I believe their fire started due to the engjbe and electrical faults of Kia motors.”
NHTSA complaint #11750155, 2026 · fire · 1 injury(ies)

“WHILE DRIVING THE CAR STALLED RESULTING IN A COLLISION WITH A TELEPHONE POLE. I HAD JUST MADE A TURN & THE CAR WENT DEAD. STEERING AND BRAKES LOCKED UP. NOW MY CAR IS COMPLETELY TOTALED NOT TO MENTION THE AIRBAGS NEVER DEPLOYED. MY FIANC WAS EJECTED FROM THE VEHICLE RESULTING IN A FRACTURED HIP.”
NHTSA complaint #11165223, 2019 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Structure 48 1 crash 3 fire

“The contact's sister owns a 2014 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked unattended, it spontaneously caught fire. The ABS warning indicator light had previously been turned on and off. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. A police report was filed. The fire department was able to extinguish the fire. There were no reported injuries, crashes, or air bag deployments. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V100000 ( Fuel System, Gasoline). The failure mile…”
NHTSA complaint #11521327, 2023 · fire

“The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 mph the vehicle shut off and rolled in a parking lot. There were no warning lights illuminated. Additionally, the dashboard and vents melted and the air conditioner became inoperable. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was informed there were metal shavings in the engine. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted who referred the contact to a local dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 129,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11421621, 2021 · fire

“I WAS HEADING NORTH BOUND, CRUISE CONTROL SET AT 55 WHEN MY 2014 KIA OPTIMA THERA II MOTOR STARTED MAKING A GRINDING SOUNDS, LOST COMPLETE POWER AND STALLED OUT. CAR WOULD NOT TURN ON ANYMORE, A TEXAS STATE TROOPER AND SMALL TOWN COP HELPED ME PUSHED THE CAR INTO A PARKING LOT AFTER ABOUT AN HOUR, THE CAR STARTED SMOKING AND CAUGHT FIRE FROM THE ENGINE BAY. LUCKILY NO ONE GOT HURT BUT THE CAR IS A TOTAL LOSE AND I HAVE A FEELING KIA IS GOING TO GIVE ME THE RUNAROUND. THE THETA II DOES HAVE AN OPEN RECALL. THE MOTOR WAS CHECKED TWICE AND PASSED BOTH TIMES.”
NHTSA complaint #11113500, 2018 · fire

Fuel/Propulsion System 41 3 crash 9 fire 8 injury 2 death

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 45 MPH, AN ABNORMAL ODOR APPEARED UNDER THE HOOD. THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE VEHICLE ACCELERATE FORWARD, CAUSING THE CONTACT TO CRASH INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE WHO WAS MAKING A U-TURN. THE CONTACT TRIED TO GAIN CONTROL OF THE STEERING WHEEL AS THE VEHICLE WENT UP IN FLAMES. THE CONTACT MANAGED TO CRASH INTO A DITCH. THE CONTACT GOT OUT RAN TO THE OTHER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE WHERE HIS FIANC WAS UNCONSCIOUS. THE CONTACT MANAGED TO CUT THE SEATBELT IN ORDER TO RELEASE AND DRAG HER OUT THE VEHICLE. THE CON…”
NHTSA complaint #11364123, 2018 · crash · fire · 1 death(s)

“CAR HIT A GUARD RAIL AND EXPLODED IN FIRE. DRIVER DIED FROM BURNS. ON INTERSTATE 8 AT MP-107, MARICOPA COUNTY, AZ. CUT OFF BY A NON-IMPACT VEHICLE. DRIVER STEERED TO AVOID CONTACT AND HIT GUARD RAIL. DRIVER SURVIVED IMPACT BUT LATER DIED OF BURNS. ABOUT 75 MPH. PASSENGER SURVIVED BUT RECEIVED SERIOUS BURNS.”
NHTSA complaint #10949906, 2016 · crash · fire · 1 death(s)

“Summer 2017 The engine failed while driving with my family. The engine seized and a fire was engulfed. I was in the interstate and we feared for our life. Out of town visiting family we were stranded in another state for a month waiting for repairs. Kia took the vehicle and replaced the engine with another faulty engine that has seized several times while commuting. I have been living in fear and anxiety since this incident. I never know if I start my engine if I will loose my life. Summer 2023 3 teenagers watched a viral tic tok challenge and learned how faulty the cylinder that Kia installe…”
NHTSA complaint #11548045, 2017 · fire · 2 injury(ies)

Service Brakes 41 8 crash 4 fire 6 injury

“The contact owned a 2014 Kia Optima. The contact stated that as he attempted to merge onto a highway at 45 MPH, the brake pedal and steering wheel locked up upon the depression of the brake pedal without warning. Due to the failure, the contact hit an electrical box encased in concrete as the vehicle continued to roll into bushes before it came to a halt. The airbags deployed upon impact. The contact exited the vehicle and removed his son from the back seat. The contact was not treated for injuries at the scene. The contact's son had a few lacerations on his neck that did not need medical atte…”
NHTSA complaint #11439468, 2021 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“The contact works as an investigator for the Utah Motor Vehicle Enforcement Division. The contact was investigating a 2014 Kia Optima with a salvaged title and reported that the air bags failed to deploy in a front-end collision. The contact stated that the air bags may have been removed or the air bag sensors were disconnected. The contact stated that while the driver was driving at 30-35 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed but the brakes failed to stop the vehicle. The vehicle crashed into another vehicle. The air bags failed to deploy. No warning light was illuminated. The driver's face stru…”
NHTSA complaint #11706493, 2025 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“I LEFT THE DEALER LOT AT CLOSING TIME 2/5/2021 THE TRACTION LIGHT AND BRAKE LIGHTS WARNINGS WERE ON THE ABS LIGHT THE CAR BRAKES SKIDDED UPON APPLYING BRAKES DRIVING AT A SLOW SPEED THE CAR SHOOK WHILE APPLYING BRAKES AND IT FELT AS THOUGH THE ENTIRE MOTOR WAS GOING TO FALL OUT . LATER MY 17 YEAR OLD WHOM HAS DRIVEN FOR 2 YEARS WAS DRIVING A FEW MILES FROM HOME SHE SAID THE STEERING WENT OUT THE BRAKES WENT OUT SHE SKID ACROSS TO THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ROAD DID NOT HIT ANYTHING YET THE ENTIRE ENGINE AND ENTIRE FRONT END OF THE CAR CAME APART THE FRAME AND ALL . SHE COULD EASILY HAVE BEEN KIL…”
NHTSA complaint #11396011, 2021 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Vehicle Speed Control 21 3 crash 1 fire 2 injury 1 death

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 45 MPH, AN ABNORMAL ODOR APPEARED UNDER THE HOOD. THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE VEHICLE ACCELERATE FORWARD, CAUSING THE CONTACT TO CRASH INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE WHO WAS MAKING A U-TURN. THE CONTACT TRIED TO GAIN CONTROL OF THE STEERING WHEEL AS THE VEHICLE WENT UP IN FLAMES. THE CONTACT MANAGED TO CRASH INTO A DITCH. THE CONTACT GOT OUT RAN TO THE OTHER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE WHERE HIS FIANC WAS UNCONSCIOUS. THE CONTACT MANAGED TO CUT THE SEATBELT IN ORDER TO RELEASE AND DRAG HER OUT THE VEHICLE. THE CON…”
NHTSA complaint #11364123, 2018 · crash · fire · 1 death(s)

“2014 KIA OPTIMA. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO UNINTENDED ACCELERATION. *LD THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A CRASH DUE TO UNINTENDED ACCELERATION. THE VEHICLE STRUCK 2 PARKED CARS. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. *JS”
NHTSA complaint #11325813, 2020 · crash

“I WAS TRYING TO BACK IN BETWEEN2 VEHICLES IN THE CHURCH PARKING LOT. AND WHILE DOING SO, WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE THE CAR LUNCHED BACKWARDS WITH A JERKING MOTION, LIKE IT WAS TRYING TO DO 2 DIFFERENT THINGS ATONE TIME, AT FULL RATE OF SPEED AND DOING SO, IT BACKED INTO THE VEHICLE TO MY LEFT, THE CAR ACTED LIKE IT HAD A MIND OF IT'S OWN. I REPORTED THE ACCIDENT AND WHEN THE POLICE ARRIVED ON THE SIGHT, HE INFORMED ME THAT HE HAD SEEN AN ISSUE LIKE THIS HAPPENING ON THE NEWS. I HAD NEVER HEARD OF AND I WENT ONLINE TO REPORT THIS INCIDENT. I WAS NOT HURT AND IF MY COUSIN WASN'T IN THE CAR, I…”
NHTSA complaint #10758899, 2015 · crash

Power Train 20 2 crash 1 fire 1 injury

“I WAS IN A PARKING STRUCTURE, STOPPED AT A STOP SIGN. I CONTINUED A FEW FEET TO MY DESIGNATED PARKING STALL AND WHEN I TURNED THE WHEEL THE CAR ACCELERATED AT WHAT FELT AND SOUNDED LIKE FULL THROTTLE ON IT'S OWN. THE SURGE OF THE VEHICLE FORCED THE CAR TO CRASH INTO A CONCRETE WALL CAUSING EXTENSIVE DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE AND BODILY INJURY TO MYSELF. THE VEHICLE IS ONLY A FEW MONTHS OLD. THIS CAR HAS SOME VERY SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUES. SOMEONE COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED. NOW I AM TERRIFIED TO EVER DRIVE IT AGAIN. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10683947, 2015 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“The car caught fire last night and burned up while parked.”
NHTSA complaint #11514559, 2023 · fire

“The engine under recall they switch it then the trains mission goes bad”
NHTSA complaint #11421906, 2021 · crash

Exterior Lighting 18 1 fire

“Car caught fire, parked in driveway, partially damaged the house.”
NHTSA complaint #11585588, 2024 · fire

“Vehicles Low-Beam headlights are very poor. Brought for service/adjustments and was advised that they were properly aimed and that nothing more could be done other than installing brighter headlights. While driving at night I need the fog lights or the high-beam lights on for proper visibility which could cause issues for other drivers on the road.”
NHTSA complaint #11677869, 2025

“The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving at night, the low-beam headlights were very dim. The contact stated that the high-beam headlights had to be used while driving in poorly lit areas. The contact had called a local dealer and was informed that a diagnostic test was needed to check the headlights. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic and was informed that the reflective coating in the headlight assemblies had deteriorated to the point that there was an accumulation of reflective material debris on the headlamp floor and that other reflect…”
NHTSA complaint #11640690, 2024

Air Bags 15 5 crash 4 injury

“The contact works as an investigator for the Utah Motor Vehicle Enforcement Division. The contact was investigating a 2014 Kia Optima with a salvaged title and reported that the air bags failed to deploy in a front-end collision. The contact stated that the air bags may have been removed or the air bag sensors were disconnected. The contact stated that while the driver was driving at 30-35 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed but the brakes failed to stop the vehicle. The vehicle crashed into another vehicle. The air bags failed to deploy. No warning light was illuminated. The driver's face stru…”
NHTSA complaint #11706493, 2025 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“Vehicle was in an accident on the highway. It rolled 3 times before landing on the roof and sliding from the highway to the grass. NONE of the airbags deployed.”
NHTSA complaint #11550372, 2023 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“WHILE DRIVING THE CAR STALLED RESULTING IN A COLLISION WITH A TELEPHONE POLE. I HAD JUST MADE A TURN & THE CAR WENT DEAD. STEERING AND BRAKES LOCKED UP. NOW MY CAR IS COMPLETELY TOTALED NOT TO MENTION THE AIRBAGS NEVER DEPLOYED. MY FIANC WAS EJECTED FROM THE VEHICLE RESULTING IN A FRACTURED HIP.”
NHTSA complaint #11165223, 2019 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Engine And Engine Cooling 14 1 crash 1 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2014 KIA OPTIMA LX. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A GUARDRAIL WHICH STOPPED THE VEHICLE FROM GOING OVER AN EMBANKMENT. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE FAILURE HAD OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES PRIOR TO THE CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A TOWING COMPANY AND THEN TOWED TO THE DEALER (KIA ATLANTA SOUTH; 7310 JONESBORO RD, MORROW, GA 30260) WHERE IT WAS INFORMED THAT THE BLACK BOX DID NOT CAPTURE THE INCIDENT DETAILS. THE CONTACT WAS PROVIDED A LOANER VEHICLE BUT 3 DAYS AFTE…”
NHTSA complaint #11292091, 2019 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at 15-20 MPH, the vehicle stalled after 7 months of ownership. The vehicle stalled in the intersection. A few guys were able to push the vehicle out of the roadway. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact received a recall notice for NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V224000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed as having a locked-down motor. The vehicle was not repaired. The warranty was declined due to the prior service records. The contact mentioned a class actio…”
NHTSA complaint #11738606, 2025

“The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH several hours after an oil change was performed on the vehicle, the engine seized. The battery, the check engine, and the low oil pressure warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to pull to the side of the road close to a swamp. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The dealer contacted the manufacturer, and an engineer was sent to diagnose the vehicle. The engineer determined that the repair could not be cov…”
NHTSA complaint #11614409, 2024

Suspension 10

“Pep boys told me in Panama City that this is a recall for Kia and it's a safety issue and my steering is loose I'm taking it to Kia on May 28th to get them to fix it”
NHTSA complaint #11662021, 2025

“I noticed my oil was not staying in the engine. Oil has been changed but seems not to retain. The car stalled out on February 2nd and would not restart. I believe it is seized. Noticed a very new and recent shake during braking days before it stalled. The fuel seems to show like 42 miles to go until empty but run out , i guess fuel pump or fuel float. Also a fuel smell. Also the digital service option does not work never a check engine light or anything .I've read many things by others who own same vehicle and had same issues. I purchased this car in August/September. I feel the dealer may hav…”
NHTSA complaint #11640543, 2025

“Complaint Summary: I am the current owner of a 2014 Kia Optima, which is affected by recall 23V652 related to the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU). The vehicle was imported to the UAE, and the recall was not addressed by the previous owner. As a result, I am now facing significant safety issues. Since taking ownership, I have encountered multiple engine problems, including sudden power loss, severe vibrations, and abnormal behavior from the throttle. These symptoms align with the issues outlined in the recall notice, indicating that the vehicle may pose a safety risk to me and other…”
NHTSA complaint #11622155, 2024

Visibility 8

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 60 MPH, GRAVEL FELL OFF OF A HEAVY TRUCK AND CRACKED THE WINDSHIELD. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE REPAIRED OR INSPECTED. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WERE CONTACTED OR INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 76,110.”
NHTSA complaint #11325518, 2020

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE SUN ROOF EXPLODED AND GLASS SHATTERED INSIDE AND OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE. THERE WAS NO WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE CONTACT CALLED GOSSETT KIA AT 901-328-8177 (LOCATED AT 1900 COVINGTON PIKE, MEMPHIS, TN 38128) AND WAS INFORMED THAT NOTHING COULD BE DONE AND THERE WAS NO RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE, FILED A REPORT, AND STATED THAT THEY WOULD FOLLOW-UP WITH THE CONTACT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. T…”
NHTSA complaint #11133275, 2018

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE SUN ROOF SUDDENLY FRACTURED AND THE GLASS SHATTERED INTO PIECES. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE SUN ROOF NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10956317, 2017

Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 6

“I DROVE MY CAR TO WORK GOT OUT OF THE CAR AND LOOK. I SAY I AM PARK BAD SO I GOT BACK IN MY CAR TO PARK BETTER. I PUT THE KEY IN AND TRY TO TURN THE KEY BUT I COULDN'T TURN KEY MY WHEEL WAS LOCK WHEN I TRY TO PUSH MY BRAKE DOWN IT WOULDN'T GO DOWN. SUPPOSED I WAS ON THE ROAD WHEN THAT HAPPEN. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #11324614, 2020

“I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY GOING 65 MPH AND AN ALERT POPS UP. IT SAID "POSSIBLE BMS CONDITION." I IMMEDIATELY PULLED TO THE SIDE, BUT ALSO NOTICED MY CAR SPEED REDUCING. I SAFELY GOT INTO THE RIGHT SHOULDER AND THEN THE CAR STEERING WHEEL FROZE UP. ANOTHER ALERT TO CHECK BRAKES WENT ON. I PUSHED THE BRAKES OVER AND OVER TO GET THE ALERT OFF. IT THEN OVER A TIME SPAN OF 3-5 MIN STARTED TO SLOWLY RUN LOW ON ELECTRICITY BECAUSE THE HAZARDS LIGHTS WERE BLINKING SLOWER. I GOT IT TOWED AND WAITING TO SEE WHAT IS THE PROBLEM. BEEN LOOKING IT UP AND MOST LIKELY IT'S THE FUSE IN THE BACK TRUNK UNDER…”
NHTSA complaint #11321454, 2020

“MY STEERING WHEEL STARTED MAKING CLICKING SOUND AFTER RESEARCHING I FOUND IT WAS A COMMON PROBLEM IN 2014 KIA OPTIMA CAUSED BY PLASTIC STEERING COUPLER CONFIDENT THAT KIA WOULD COVER IT BECAUSE OF THE SERVICE BULLETIN PUT OUT FOR MY YEA RE AND BACK TO MY SURPRISE I HAD TO PAY OUT OF POCKET $340. GOD KNOW WHY A MANUFACTURE WOULD PUT PLASTIC IN MAJOR COMPONENT OF THE STEERING COLUMN. I CONTACTED THEIR CONSUMER AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT AND WAS TOLD MY VIN WAS NOT COVERED AND DESPITE IT BEING ISSUED FOR MY YEAR AND MAKE NO OTHER ASSISTANCE WOULD BE PROVIDED UNLESS A FUTURE RECALL WAS ISSUED. THIS IS…”
NHTSA complaint #11257334, 2019

Fuel System 6 1 fire

“The contact owned a 2014 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked in the garage, the vehicle had begun to burn. The fire department was called and the vehicle fire was controlled using water to extinguish the flames. The contact stated that the fire department filed a report. The contact stated that the vehicle was towed to an impound lot and had not been examined by a dealer or insurance adjuster. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The contact was aware of one recall associated with the VIN, NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V331000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic), howev…”
NHTSA complaint #11578729, 2024 · fire

“The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 20V10000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE) and 21V331000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal fuel odor coming from the engine and entering the cabin of the vehicle through the A/C vents. The check engine warning light and ABS warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The contact became aware that the vehicle was out of fuel. The contac…”
NHTSA complaint #11708343, 2025

“The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the vehicle decelerated to 60 MPH, and was unable to accelerate as needed. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the roadway. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the knock sensor. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V093000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure…”
NHTSA complaint #11566215, 2024

Seats 5

“I HAD TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO THE KIA DEALER IN ORANGE COUNTY, AND THEY CHARGED ME EXTRA TO RESOLVE THE RECALL, AND THE VEHICLE'S AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM IS NO LONGER WORKING, THE GAS INTAKE IS RIDICULOUS, AND THE CAR DOES NOT HAVE THE SAME POWER AS IT USED TO.”
NHTSA complaint #11343986, 2020

“THE ELECTRIC DRIVERS SEAT HAS FAILED. MOTORS NOT ENGAGED. FUSE LINK OK. DEALERSHIP REPLACED CONTROL PANEL. STILL NO POWER TO SEAT. SEAT IS NOW IN FORWARD POSITION.”
NHTSA complaint #11297998, 2019

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE DRIVING, THE FRONT DRIVER'S SEAT FELL BACK WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE RECURRED MULTIPLE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO FOUR DIFFERENT DEALERS, BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE, BUT PROVIDED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE WAS NOT REMEDIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 200. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED.”
NHTSA complaint #10939307, 2014

Visibility/Wiper 5

“The paint is defective/chipping. Now, rusting has occurred.”
NHTSA complaint #11462965, 2020

“WHEN WINTER (THE COLD)COMES MY BACK UP CAMERA STOPS WORKING. I LOOKED IT UP ONLINE AND LOTS OF PEOPLE HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM WITH KIAS”
NHTSA complaint #11280557, 2018

“DRIVING HOME AND MY ENTIRE BACK WINDOW SHATTERS OUT OF NO WHERE. LOOKS LIKE IT CRACKED AROUND THE EDGE.”
NHTSA complaint #11065474, 2018

Wheels 3

“I was getting into traffic and felt like power steering went on left turn Took to Kia repair shop on 5/26 RECEIVED call on 6/7 that repairs had been made costing $938.03 SAME PROBLEM NEXT DAY TOOK CAR BACK 6/11 RECEIVED message that car is repaired on 6/25 at NO Cost Picked up drove about 5 miles any took right turn to come home same it happened again They now have the car in the shop”
NHTSA complaint #11422499, 2021

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL FELT LOOSE AND STARTED TO PULL TO THE LEFT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO PEP BOYS WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT AN ALIGNMENT WAS NEEDED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 78,901.”
NHTSA complaint #11204032, 2019

“2014 KIA OPTIMA SXL TURBO. WIFE'S CAR. DRIVES IN ECO MODE 99% OF THE TIME. HANKOOK OPTIMO H431 TIRE SIZE 225/45R18. 31000 MILES IN 36 MONTHS. I KNOW BECAUSE IT'S A LEASE! FOUND MULTIPLE CRACKS ON SIDE WALL OF TIRE ON DRIVER FRONT. TIRES ARE ORIGINAL FROM FACTORY/DEALER OR I (HAVE NEVER CHANGED THEM MYSELF.) CAR 100% PARKED IN GARAGE. FOUND MULTIPLE CRACKS 2 DAYS AGO FROM ONE INCH TO 3 INCHES LONG. WENT TO DEALER IN COVINA CA. NO REPLACEMENT OFFERED. THIS IS MY 2ND STEP.”
NHTSA complaint #11031954, 2017

Forward Collision Avoidance 1

“The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer for an unknown recall repair which included a system update and while driving 45 MPH after the recall repair, the vehicle experienced inadvertent braking, without another vehicle nearby. The contact coasted the vehicle until the vehicle regained normal acceleration functionality. The contact stated that the Forward Collision Avoidance, Traction Control, ABS, and Blind Spot Detection system's warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the mechanic linked the failure to t…”
NHTSA complaint #11504733, 2023

Hybrid Propulsion System 1

“The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 75 MPH, the steering and brakes became inoperable. The vehicle began to coast and stopped. While driving, the vehicle shut off and failed to move. The hybrid system warning light was illuminated for approximately one minute. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where the fuse and brakes were changed. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to another local dealer, Regal Kia (1025 Bartow Rd., Lakeland, FL 33801), where there was an unknown diagnosis provided.…”
NHTSA complaint #11556409, 2020

Seat Belts 1

“I RECENTLY HAD MY CAR REPAIRED FOR THE TURBO FUEL LINE WHICH WAS A RECALL AND SNAPPED IN MY. THIS WAS REPAIRED HOWEVER EVER SINCE THAT NOW MY TURBO IS NOT WORKING AND I HAVE VERY LITTLE PICKUP WHEN I ACCELERATE. ALSO MY SEATBELT LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON STATING THAT MY SEATBELT IS NOT CONNECTED WHEN IT IS. AND THIS PROBLEM WILL RECOVER FOR A SHORT PERIOD OF TIME AND HAPPEN AGAIN IN A FEW DAYS”
NHTSA complaint #11317462, 2020

Tires 1

“TIRE WENT FLAT THEN BLEW OUT AFTER BEING RE-INFLATED BY THE SIDE OF THE ROAD.”
NHTSA complaint #11400023, 2021

Traction Control System 1

“The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer for an unknown recall repair which included a system update and while driving 45 MPH after the recall repair, the vehicle experienced inadvertent braking, without another vehicle nearby. The contact coasted the vehicle until the vehicle regained normal acceleration functionality. The contact stated that the Forward Collision Avoidance, Traction Control, ABS, and Blind Spot Detection system's warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the mechanic linked the failure to t…”
NHTSA complaint #11504733, 2023