123 of the 1,263 complaints about the 2012 KIA Optima are about the electrical system — 10% of everything reported for this model year. Half of the failures with a mileage on record happened before 78,437 miles.
123
Complaints
4
Crashes
18
Fires
3
Injuries
Filed with NHTSA, in their own words.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The horn stops working, steering heat stop working, control functions and air bag warning. I changed the clock spring and it fixed all those issues the first time but within 6 months all those issues happened again. Is there something more wrong?
NHTSA complaint #11736227 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
A issue with the Valve cover gasket leaking into the engine causing a misfire. Making the car suddenly stop while driving which is very unsafe. I took the car to the dealership and they want to charge me for the repairs. I have 2 kia optima hybrid and both cars have the same issue around the same mileage. There were no warning lights during the time it was at the shop. However one day the check engine light did come on and the OBD code P1326 came up. When I took it to the shop the check engine light disappeared and the dealership said they will not check my engine unless they see the code on their end. I believe later down the line the engine will stall out and it should be fixed now while under warranty. However I received no help from the dealership unless I am willing to pay upfront. In addition to this there are electrical issues the front seats aren't moving immediately when the button is pressed. The steering wheel buttons barely work along with the radio. This is a huge problem that needs to be fixed.
NHTSA complaint #11734769 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Unknown but We were driving home from friant in motion when the car died and started smoking, no indication light were on before until after the incident all warning lights were on dash. Our lives were put at risk due to this. We were not able to control steering wheel or to get out of the way of traffic.
NHTSA complaint #11720852 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
To: Administrator National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE Washington, DC 20590 USA Subject: Formal Safety Defect Claim Regarding Unaddressed Recalls — 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid (VIN: [XXX] ) From: [XXX] Email: [XXX] Phone: [XXX] Vehicle Information: - VIN: * [XXX] ** - Make / Model: 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid - Mileage: approx. **250,000 miles** - Current Location: Moldova (vehicle manufactured in Korea for the US market) --- ## Summary of the Problem I am writing to file a **formal safety defect claim** regarding my 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid, VIN * [XXX] **, which, despite having documented recall campaigns, has never had critical parts replaced. As a result: 1. **Internal scoring and scratches (zadir)** have been detected within the engine, consistent with **metal shavings / debris** circulating in the oil system. 2. There is **metallic residue (shavings)** found in the oil pump, which strongly suggests that worn or damaged components (likely from a manufacturing defect) were never replaced during the recall. 3. Given the extraordinarily high mileage (≈ 250,000 miles), the continued use without the required recall repairs poses **significant safety risks** and potential for further engine failure or fire. 4. I was not provided with a proper remedy when recall notices were issued — in my case, the relevant parts were not replaced in a timely fashion (or at all), despite the recall campaigns being active, leading to the deterioration of the engine. --- ## Legal and Technical Basis ### Recalls Applicable to My Vehicle - NHTSA Recall **20V750** for the 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid: This is a recall related to engine defects, including risk of engine fire. [oai_citation [XXX] ] [XXX] ) - NHTSA Recall **23V652**: This relates to the Hydraul INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11701499 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Driving car on the highway then the car started smoking and shut down completely. IT would not turn on or anything. It smell burnt.
NHTSA complaint #11695693 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
ABS system failing
NHTSA complaint #11689722 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
While in park and driving the instrument panel will show, "Check Brake" and "Hybrid System Warning! Safely Stop and Do not Drive". This is accompanied by the engine not responding to the gas pedal. The brake pedal will also loose pressure and once pushed the brakes will lock up making a grinding noise. The problem has not been able to be duplicated by the dealer. However there are multiple forms and online communities dedicated to try to resolve this issue since it's so prevalent. This issue causes a major saftey hazard as the car comes to a grinding halt and does not respond to the driver. From online sources it seems the problem is prevalent across years and models and only tied to hybrid vehicles.
NHTSA complaint #11688408 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
On August 25th around 7:00 PM, the vehicle suddenly caught fire while parked after a short test drive. The car had just been purchased a few days prior and was taken to a mechanic for a precautionary inspection. During the test drive, the mechanic parked the vehicle in a residential driveway. After backing in, smoke was observed coming from the engine bay. When the hood was lifted, the engine area was already on fire. The fire department was called immediately and was able to extinguish the flames before the fire spread to surrounding property. The fire completely destroyed the vehicle. The vehicle had no warning lights, unusual performance issues, or prior signs of trouble, and it appeared to be in good condition prior to the incident. This fire posed a serious safety hazard and could have resulted in injury or property damage. Component or system that failed: The engine area, likely associated with the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) fuse/fire risk. The vehicle may or may not be available for inspection, as it is severely burned. Safety risk: The fire posed a serious hazard to the mechanic, surrounding property, and anyone nearby. Rapid ignition could have caused injury or significant property damage. Problem confirmation: The fire was observed firsthand by the mechanic. The open recall related to the HECU fuse/fire risk indicates a known defect consistent with the incident. Inspections: The fire department responded and documented the incident. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer or insurance representatives, but the recall status is verifiable through official records. Warning signs: There were no warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms prior to the failure. This incident appears consistent with the conditions described in the open recall for the HECU fuse/fire risk, suggesting a possible link between the recall defect and the fire.
NHTSA complaint #11683294 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2012 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at 30 MPH, the contact pressed on the horn, and the horn failed to function as intended. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, upon starting the vehicle and attempting to adjust the driver’s side mirror, there was an abnormal clicking sound coming from the side-view mirror motor. The contact stated that several days later, the abnormal clicking sound ceased, and the driver’s side mirror failed to function as intended. On a separate occasion, the passenger’s side mirror motor was making an abnormal clicking sound. Several days later, the clicking sound ceased and the passenger’s side mirror failed to function as intended. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that while attempting to close the sunroof, the motor failed to function as intended and the sunroof was half closed. The contact had to place a tarp over the sunroof to protect inside the vehicle from the elements. No warning lights were illuminated. Recently the vehicle received maintenance and there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine. In addition, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact stated that while driving at slow speeds, the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to coast to the side of the road. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that an unknown part had failed in the engine. The contact was unsure what part of the engine had been replaced. The failure recurred, and the contact had safety concerns about the vehicle. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.
NHTSA complaint #11681327 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Car thought I was breaking when I was pressing the gas and I was merging into a left lane. I was able to turn on the car without pressing the brakes due to the latter. The car doors are unlocking while im driving without warning. Also traction light on car cameo on
NHTSA complaint #11665738 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2012 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving downhill at approximately 40-45 MPH, the vehicle shut off. The battery, oil, and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The brake pedal was depressed, but the pedal was firm. There was an abnormal clicking sound coming from the vehicle. There was smoke coming from the engine. The contact attempted to turn off the vehicle; however, the transmission failed to shift to park. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 154,782.
NHTSA complaint #11655507 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I brought my Kia optima sx in at Kia Atlanta South dealership for a Hydraulic electronic control Unit recall to be service since the problem can result in a engine fire while driving or parked but the dealership did not do the recalled service and told me that it was done. I checked my engine fuse to see if the new fuse were installed and new label was put on in place of old fuse label and none of it was done.
NHTSA complaint #11643173 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The car instrument panel showed two messages "check brake " and also "hybrid system warning safely stop and do not drive" The brakes stopped working and the car will not accelerate. I stopped reset the battery and started the car as if nothing was wrong. this happens intermittently when i drive the car for over an hour. the brakes are brand new the brake cylinder is working fine. only when this warning come up the brakes feel like they are grinding. a lot of owners are complaining about this. I am wondering if there is a recall for this issue.
NHTSA complaint #11640117 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2012 Kia Optima. The contact stated the vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the recall repair of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000(Service Brakes, Hydraulic) was performed; however, after the repair, the A/C system became inoperable, and the front passenger's side window failed to roll up or down when engaging the power window switch. The dealer was notified of the failure, but did not provide any assistance. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
NHTSA complaint #11623453 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Snow White Pearl Paint is peeling at numerous location Rear driver's side window button not working Siruis XM radio not working .Dealt with XM and stated it was a Kia antenna however Kia tells me its Sirius xm problem
NHTSA complaint #11599208 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owned a 2012 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving 50-60 MPH, the vehicle experienced excessive steering efforts, which required keeping both hands on the steering wheel to prevent the vehicle from drifting out of the lane. The contact stated that the failure recurred while driving on one occasion, causing the passenger's side-view mirror to strike another vehicle, and the side-view mirror was damaged. There was no injury sustained. A Police report was filed, but the police report information was not available. Additionally, the contact stated that after the vehicle had been turned off for 10 minutes, the vehicle failed to restart and was jumpstarted. The contact stated that the failures recurred several times. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer, where it was diagnosed with steering and electrical failures. The vehicle was not repaired and was sold. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown. The VIN was not available.
NHTSA complaint #11594203 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I did not know about this recall and my dad was driving my car caught on fire and blew up now I do not have a car please help.
NHTSA complaint #11582735 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Was driving on the road on the way back to work from lunch, started hitting the brakes at an upcoming stop light, and the car shut down. There was no lights indicating anything prior to the incident. I tried starting it again and it started smoking, I then opened the hood and all the smoke poured out. The engine bay smelled like something electrical melting or of some sort. I towed it to the dealership I work at and had my ex-kia technician coworkers look at it and said they've never seen anything like it, but did confirm the smell was electrical. OBD II reader was not reading anything at all. I was letting it sit for a while waiting for the recall to have some sort of remedy, but I've grown tired waiting so I decided to file a complaint. And I will reiterate again that NONE of the lights came on at all until my car decided to break down.
NHTSA complaint #11576204 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
While driving will will get “hybrid system. Warning check brakes”. Car will loose acceleration. After turning car off for five minutes, error goes away and car drives. Happens for no reason and has occurred 4 times in the last week
NHTSA complaint #11567988 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
It has started burning oil, we have to continually check it. There are no leaks but oil burns too fast, we check it almost daily.
NHTSA complaint #11565032 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
When driving the vehicle the engine light is on & under the hood is smoking . It smells like burnt rubber or just burning something. This started happening right after the engine light came on. It’s not safe to drive my vehicle at this point
NHTSA complaint #11561561 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I received a safety call notice my car was still working fine I’m waiting for the next notice according to this notice and my car breaks down still no notice said to call the number on it I did nothing, THE CAR STOPPED IN MIDDLE OF THE FREAKIN TRAFFIC ON A GREEN LIGHT ALL CARS GOING FAST BEEPING AT ME AND MY CAR WONT TURN ON ITS RAINING AND MY HUSBAND IS PASSENGER THANK GOD MY BABY WASNT W ME BUT WHAT IF SHE WAS , I expect Kia to answer and NOT CHARGE ME TO COME GET ME WHEN ITS THEIR FAULT THE CAR DOESNT WORK WHAT IF WE GOT HIT MY CHILD WOULD OF LOSTVHER PARENTS WE COULD OF REALLY BEEN HIRT SMOKE EVRYWHERE CAR STINKS LIKE ITS BURNING UP I REALLY THOUGH WE WHERE ABOUT TO EXPLODE THE WAY IT SMOKED UP AND SMELLED SO BAD CARS PASSING BY JUST THINKING YOU CANT GWT OFF AN HAVE TO STAY PUT UNTIL THEY STOP I COULD HAVE DIED
NHTSA complaint #11561411 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Still no remedy for fve safety recall and my car continues to smoke leaving it unable to be driven.
NHTSA complaint #11560762 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I contacted the Kia dealership in Wexford, PA on November 18 regarding the HECU safety recall and was told there is no fix available. The date of the notice was November 14, 2023 and I still haven't received an update from Kia. I haven't seen the MIL or ABS illuminated in my vehicle, but have experienced a slight burning smell over the past two days. My family's safety is paramount so I'm filing a formal complaint with the NHTSA. Kia America must address this issue and provide an immediate solution.
NHTSA complaint #11560561 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Vehicle is under recall 23V652 for HECU short circuit issue. Vehicle was running fine, driven to local mechanic for routine oil change and inspection. MIL was on with P0445 indicating a short circuit on Purge control valve. Mechanic replaced Purge control valve which did not reset maintenance light. Mechanic investigated and found evidence of a thermal event (fire) within the wiring harness near the computer. Mechanic contacted me and I notified him of Interim Recall notice. Vehicle was towed to local Kia dealer where they will not honor recall as there is no current solution. They said they can not prove the incident was HECU without replacing wiring harness which I must pay for.
NHTSA complaint #11559673 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The transmission automatic, shifter somehow disconnected from transmission, while driving, once it happened, stepping in gas pedal only revved engine, on highway in traffic, glided to to side of highway, and brakes did work, no transmission, dealer later stated and have dealer report, the piece that engages the trans to the shifter was defective and broke or fell off during vehicle operation, put a new 1 on, and then I could use gears again, regardless when it happened, any driver lost all power to stay, go or keep w, traffic, only attempt could be to safely get off highway.
NHTSA complaint #11559248 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2012 Kia Optima. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, she noticed smoke coming from underneath the hood of the vehicle. Additionally, the contact stated that the taillights remained illuminated while the vehicle was turned off. There was no warning light illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
NHTSA complaint #11559101 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My car started losing its lights one by one. I lost the front right light first, then yhe right back side light, and now the brakes lights. I replaced all the bulbs and still does not work. Then my car just cut off while driving with no notification. I towed it in to Mavis. They checked and said the battery was not keeping charge. I paid to replace the battery ,belt and alternator. Four days later my check engine light, battery indicator, airbag indicator, door indicator came on and still is on.
NHTSA complaint #11558164 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
While driving down the highway the cars Hybrid warning system came on causing the car to lose all breaks and lose power. The component of the vehicle that failed is the HECU. Kia already did a recall for this but did not include the hybrids for the recall. This is very unsafe losing all breaking power, driving 65 mph down the highway with my children in the car! There was absolutely no warning, no check engine lights nothing. I had it towed to the dealership and upon them driving it, it also cut completely out and did it to the person at the dealership. This is going to cause someone to lose their life and when you call Kia, it’s the same run around that your year wasn’t included in the recall yet there was a whole lawsuit about this.
NHTSA complaint #11541785 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2012 Kia Optima EX with 67000 miles driver-side seatbelt dash warning goes off even it is buckled securely while driving.
NHTSA complaint #11522265 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.