69 of the 10,355 complaints filed about the KIA Optima are about the wheels — 1% of everything owners reported. The worst model year for it is 2013.
69
Complaints
1%
Share of all complaints
6
Crashes
1
Fires
WHEELS
I bought this car February 2026 when I drove it on the freeway they car felt wiggly not the axle is broke and the wheel bearings stop the car from going
NHTSA complaint #11741928 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
WHEELS
The contact owned a 2013 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front end of the vehicle caught fire. The contact was informed by another driver that the fire originated near the front driver’s side wheel area. The fire was extinguished by the local fire department, and a police report was filed. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was destroyed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 144,000.
NHTSA complaint #11730924 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
WHEELS
The car just keep doing weird stuff with the lights. It want go off all the time the key went work the cv joints are popping. Have to trigger the battery sometimes to start up
NHTSA complaint #11668296 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
WHEELS
On May 11, 2024, we took our 2015 Kia Optima to Hutchinson Kia Service Center 3931 River Pl, Macon, Ga. due to brakes not working. When you apply brakes the vehicle would not stopped you would have to apply the emergency brakes for a complete stop. On that day, I was told no one was there to check my brakes due it was a Saturday and would need to schedule another appointment when they could do a brake diagnostic. The next appointment was June 4,2024, on that day we had the vehicle towed due to brakes. Today is September 2, 2024 and our vehicle is still there. On July 12, 2024, we were contacted staying vehicle was repaired and the problem wa a pin hole in the right brake line. We picked up the vehicle proceeded home at the first traffic stop same problem happen with the brakes.We returned immediately back to Kia Service center, explaining the same problem still exists. After vehicle being there for 2 more weeks, Nick with Kia Hutchinson Kia called stated there was a problem with ABS system and vehicle would be ready on August 21,2024. Well the still have my vehicle and no updates. When you call they put on hold and never comeback. If you go over the Service Manager is always out and no one can give you and update
NHTSA complaint #11612100 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
WHEELS
1- Steering wheel. Yes 2- Not sure if something was going to happen while driving whether da or night or long distance traveling 3- I spoke with the service center a while back and didn't have a good time to bring it by. 4- No No just loud shaking from the steering wheel. It's been going on for at least a month
NHTSA complaint #11608841 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
WHEELS
I brought this car [XXX] and the next day it broke down didn’t start at all I been saying I wanted my money back from day he didn’t take no for answer basically held me hostage until I paid everything. I brought this car and been without a car since this is totally unfair . The Clean state motors is a bad service communication place to buy car it was totally the opposite before I gave money for car. Once I gave money they all got mean and had attitudes was saying they was ready to leave instead of giving my money back kept going down finding different prices for car insurance reason why I really brought car I was mentally force and I’m mentally going threw a lot of things because of this . I don’t have no car and the car dealer shop called me and told me I couldn’t get no rental so I can stop calling . I need a new car . A rental . I have missed out on Money work and I have 2 kids going on [XXX] old this month on [XXX] these people do not care they took my money and still forcing me to pay 1000 and car note 284 when I haven’t had the car but for one day the next day the car broke down . I am sewing will hear from my lawyer He said I had 30 days to come get my Monet back the next morning I called for my money back they said no this unfair I turn in all information paid insurance 795 which is to high I just need my money back I didn’t even get to keep car a week literally next day car did not start he never said car was being brought as is if so I would have not brought it and I didn’t sign all those papers Delewin had to forfeit my signature this was fraud scam to me I need a car the engine broke down car batter was linking and white acid was everywhere inside front car and I wasn’t suppose to look at that car is was a white Kia 2019 This not right this unfair please help me on fixing this I deserve a car INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11592002 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
WHEELS
Dear National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, I am writing to file a formal complaint regarding numerous premature defects in my 2019 Kia Optima, which have led to serious safety hazards and compromised driving conditions. Firstly, the premature valve cover gasket leaking has resulted in dangerous fumes infiltrating the cabin, posing a significant risk to my health and safety as well as that of any passengers. This issue has not only caused discomfort but also raised concerns about potential long-term health effects. Additionally, the premature turbo gasket leaking is a further cause for alarm. Not only does this compromise the vehicle's performance and efficiency, but it also presents a potential fire hazard, particularly if the leaking oil comes into contact with hot engine components. Furthermore, the premature defect of the axle shafts and axle boots is a critical safety issue. This compromises the vehicle's stability and handling, increasing the risk of accidents and potential loss of control while driving. Moreover, the premature engine knocking and abnormal shaking and lag are indicative of underlying mechanical issues that significantly impact the vehicle's drivability and safety. Engine knocking can be a precursor to more severe internal damage, while abnormal shaking and lag compromise the vehicle's responsiveness, especially in critical situations such as merging onto highways or overtaking. These issues collectively present a clear pattern of premature defects that pose significant safety risks to both myself and other road users. As such, I urge you to investigate these matters thoroughly and take appropriate action to ensure the safety and well-being of Kia Optima owners. I look forward to your prompt attention to this matter and a swift resolution to address these critical safety concerns.
NHTSA complaint #11574707 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
WHEELS
Dear National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, I am writing to bring to your attention a grave safety concern regarding my 2019 Kia Optima SX. Despite diligent maintenance and care, my vehicle has experienced persistent alignment issues, particularly on the right side. Additionally, I have encountered premature axle shaft and axle boot failures, all of which have occurred well before reaching 60,000 miles. These issues have not only posed a significant financial burden but have also jeopardized the safety of myself and other road users. The repeated alignment problems have resulted in the rapid deterioration of tires, leading to baldness within a month of replacement, creating a hazardous driving condition and increasing the risk of accidents. The premature failure of axle shafts and boots is unacceptable for a vehicle of this age and mileage. Such failures not only compromise the vehicle’s performance but also raise serious concerns about the overall quality and safety standards of the Kia Optima SX. I urge the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration to conduct a thorough investigation into these recurring issues affecting the 2019 Kia Optima SX model. Immediate action is necessary to ensure the safety of consumers and to hold Kia accountable for any design or manufacturing defects contributing to these alarming problems. Your swift attention to this matter is crucial in preventing potential accidents and ensuring the well-being of motorists nationwide.
NHTSA complaint #11574794 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
WHEELS
We have had two motor replacements in less than 6 months that we have owned this vehicle for the first one started started a knocking noise right after a flashing check engine light both Kia is by us totus will we can't get it in today wouldn't give us a rental and was going to charge us for a diagnostics fee right up front and told us it would still be a few days before they could get it in so we had no choice but to continue driving it not even 2 days later left my fiance on the side of the road wouldn't start wouldn't do nothing engine seized Kia dealer number one put the motor put it back together wrong and then when it seized again in less than 5,000 mi try telling us that they weren't responsible well if we did the engine again give it back to us notice that the ignition coils were not put on properly and orbital down properly You're still an electrical issue and the engines are starting to do the engine is starting to do the same as engine one and two. What I don't understand is why don't Kia just completely recall the entire car and take it off to fucking market and replace the people replace the cars that have that still have people owning them
NHTSA complaint #11556072 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
WHEELS
Unknown
NHTSA complaint #11535923 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
WHEELS
The wheel fell off when I was driving the key axle completely broke the pipe off but I still don’t have it fixed I only had liability
NHTSA complaint #11515715 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
WHEELS
My steering wheel will randomly lock in the middle of road while driving. I have to forcefully turn wheel to be able to pull of off the road meanwhile the there is on coming traffic. I have been told my car is having misfire and an engine knock code P1326 I have also got other codes and was told it could be a factory malfunction.
NHTSA complaint #11455444 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
WHEELS
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.
NHTSA complaint #11437582 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
WHEELS
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 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
WHEELS
2 FLAT TIRES GETTING OFF WORK
NHTSA complaint #11398012 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
WHEELS
ALL THE PAINT ON THE OUTSIDE OF MY 2013 KIA OPTIMA IS BUBBLING AND PEELING OFF THE CHROME ON MY WHEELS IS CHIPPING AND COMING OFF
NHTSA complaint #11366908 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
WHEELS
WITHIN A WEEK BOTH FRONT AND REAR PASSENGER WHEEL SPEED SENSORS FAILED. RESULTING IN A PROMPT ON DASH AT START UP AND CONSISTENTLY DISPLAYED FOR AEB SYSTEM SERVICE AFTER VEHICLES AUTOMATIC SYSTEM SCAN AN SEE DIFFERENCE IN MILEAGE IN ATTACHED PICTURES. KIA TECHNICIAN SAID IT IS A COMMON ISSUE AND SEES ATLEAST 4-5 VEHICLES PER WEEK WITH THIS PART FAILURE.
NHTSA complaint #11365946 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
WHEELS
TURNER KIA DIAGNOSIS MY VEHICLE OF OVERHEATING CONDITION REVEALED COMBUSTION GASSES GETTING INTO COOLANT. INTERNAL ISSUE ALLOWING COMBUSTION PRESSURE TO GET INTO COOLING SYSTEM WHICH IS HAMPERING COOLING EFFICIENCY AS WELL AS CAUSING AREACTION OFF COOLANT. WHEN I DROVE THE CAR HALF WAY ON THE HIGHWAY IT STARTED TO SMOKE AFTER I JUST GOT IT BACK FROM TURNER KIA AFTER FIXING WHAT THEY SAID WAS THE PROBLEM AFTER THAT I TOOK IT BACK TO TURNER KIA AND THEY DIAGNOSIS IT AS NEEDING A NEW ENGINE.
NHTSA complaint #11364234 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
WHEELS
I'LL START WITH THE WINDOWS. PRIOR TO COVID MY RIGHT REAR PASSENGER WINDOW MOTOR AND REGULATOR WENT OUT. CITRUS KIA FIXED IT. RIGHT AFTER COVID WAS ANNOUNCED MY FRONT RIGHT PASSENGER WINDOW WENT OUT AND I COULDNT GET MY CAR IN. 2 WEEKS LATER MY FRONT LEFT DRIVER WINDOW WENT OUT. WHEN I FINALLY GOT MY CAR IN THEY TOLD ME I WAS 200 MILES OVER ON MY WARRANTY TO FIX IT. I HAVENT HAD THE USE OF EITHER OF MY FRONT WINDOWS FOR MONTHS. THEY DROPPED RANDOMLY GOING DOWN THE ROAD. IF I DONT LEAVE SOMETHING WEDGED IN THE WINDOW THEY DROP SO FAR I HAVE TO USE DUCT TAPE TO ADHERE TO IT AND PULL UP ENOUGH TO GRAB IT. ITS DEFINITELY A SAFETY ISSUE THAT I CANNOT USE MY WINDOWS. AND I DONT KNOW WHAT IS GOING ON WITH THE DRIVE TRAIN , AXLE AND SUSPENSION BUT I AM EATING THROUGH BRAND NEW TIRES EVERY COUPLE MONTHS. THE DEALERSHIP BLAMED IT ON ME AND SERIOUSLY ASKED ME IF I WAS JUMPING CURBS. I HAVE HAD SO MANY ISSUES WITH THIS CAR SINCE THE MOTOR GOT REPLACED. NOT TO MENTION MY HEAT DOESNT WORK UNLESS ITS IN DEFROST MODE. THE DEALERSHIP KNOWS ABOUT ALL THESE ONGOING ISSUES. KAREN IS MY SERVICE ADVISOR. I EVEN TRIED TO TRADE MY CAR IN WITH THEM AND THEY TURNED IT DOWN. THIS CAR IS FALLING APART AND I AM ONLY ONE MONTH AWAY FROM HAVING IT FOR 4 YEARS. I AM THE ONLY OWNER IT HAS HAD
NHTSA complaint #11362902 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
WHEELS
WE WERE TRAVELING AT AROUND 55-60 MILES AN HOUR AND WERE T-BONES BY A CHEVY AVALANCHE ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. I WAS IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT AND MY HUSBAND SWERVED SO THE TRUCK LUCKILY STARTED AT MY DOOR AND COMPLETELY RIPPED AND SMASHED IN THE BACK PASSENGER DOOR AND BACK/ TRUNK OF OUR OPTIMA. BACK WHEEL IS COMPLETELY TURNED OUT. HIT SO HARD IT COMPLETELY TURNED US IN 2 CIRCLES AND BUSTED MY FRONT LICENSE PLATE AND IT HIT ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. I BUSTED MY HEAD OPEN AND RECEIVED 3 STAPLES AND KNEE SHOVED IN DASH BUT NOT 1 AIR BAG IN THIS VEHICLE DEPLOYED!! I HAVE ALWAYS OWNED A KIA!! I WILL NO LONGER PURCHASE A KIA BECAUSE I DO NOT FEEL SAFE!!
NHTSA complaint #11361018 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.