Does this ring a bell? Very noticeable in such an otherwise quiet & comfortable car! The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey I've frequently exceeded 34 MpH highway, which considering that this is a 276 HP / 270 TQ engine, is actually awesome. I took car back. It earns a 7 out of 10. BUT TODAY WHICH IS SUNDAY MY CAR?S EPS (ELECTRIC POWER STEERING) LIGHT FLASHED. JUST IMAGINE IF I HAD MY CHILD IN THE CAR, ON THE INTERSTATE AND COULD NO LONGER CONTROL MY STEERING WHEEL OR THE CAR JUST DYING MID DRIVE ON THE INTERSTATE HOW DANGEROUS THIS ISSUE IS. All models benefit from a good ride and handling setup, which makes the Optima comfortable, if not particularly sporty. No charge to us.". Compensation for potential legal violations, and any results obtained, depends upon the specific factual and legal circumstances of each case. The Optima gets some minor updates for 2018. Looking for a different year of the Kia Optima? Some models will feature diamond-patterned seating thats normally reserved for a higher tax bracket, and we appreciate Kias efforts there. IT WILL NOT TURN OVER, IT WILL NOT DO ANYTHING BESIDES TICK. Balance, neutral ride and crisp turn-in help it earn one point above average, and the rest of the tale of the tape for the Optima keep it mid-pack with its competitors. The firms main office is located at 43 Danbury Road, Wilton, Connecticut. A 7.0-inch touchscreen with .css-11njm2c{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-thickness:0.0625rem;text-decoration-color:inherit;text-underline-offset:0.25rem;color:#1C5f8B;-webkit-transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;font-weight:bold;}.css-11njm2c:hover{color:#1C5f8B;text-decoration-color:border-link-body-hover;}Apple CarPlay and Android Auto replaces the old 5.0-inch unit, which lacked smartphone integration. Sit back and let the experts work aid your lemon at no cost to you. TRANSMISSION FAILED AFTER 4 MONTHS AND 3800 MILES WHILE DRIVING ST LOCAL STREETS, KIA DEALERS REFUSED TO REPAIR UNDER WARRANTY. Instead, it is riddled with engine troubles, powertrain malfunctions and the possibility of an accident. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links. Had to get zone manager involved, & he knew that a minor adjustment to the door hinges would cure the problem. Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension. Filed a claim with Kia and BBB to resolve it. This website is attorney advertising: prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. What could the owner possibly have done to the transmission within 4,000 miles that would cause the transmission to go bad and void the warranty? NA indicates that we did not receive a large enough sample size to provide Email is required to block spam, but will not be published. "Engine ran rough and shook. "trunk cover came up twice while parked for several days". This is not legal advice. (2018 Kia Optima Plug-in 2.0-L 4 Cyl plug-in hybrid), (2018 Kia Optima Hybrid 2.0-L 4 Cyl hybrid), Paint (fading, chalking, cracking, or peeling). Weve found the Normal mode to be the goldilocks zone for most circumstances; Sport can be too hot, Eco can be too cold. On Interstate 53 Southbound car went to limp mode. Hate to admit it but the Regal GS AWD is starting to look good not to mention at least considering the base Audi A5 Sportback. The cockpit isnt as driver-focused as last iterations, but the fit and finish makes up for those shortcomings. Would I buy another? Kia was one of the first automakers to adopt a lineup of all 4-cylinder engines for their mid-size sedan. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. It narrowly misses another for luxury-like appointmentsemphasis on narrowly there. Every model is available with the latest active-safety and infotainment features. If you feel you have received this message in error, please view our customer care The aggressively sloping roofline makes a styling promise that rear passengers will have to make good on; theres just enough head room for 6-footers, but not much more. How to Repair, Maintain, and Care for Your Car. Kia dealers refused to repair under warranty.. Dealers will also install a software update containing a Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Handling, up to about 7/10ths is also better than adequate, beyond which, body roll becomes uncomfortable and terminal under-steer seems imminent. While this is a scary situation, imagine the concern over an electrical issue with the hybrid models. Up front, the seats are lower and deeply bolstered with good side support and room for long legs. Very pleased with car after frustrating problem was resolvedwhy dealer wouldn't contact "big brass" about this is beyond me. "The heater never worked well. (Read more about how we rate cars.). Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. For more information about the Kia Optimas crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Thank you for requesting your free case evaluation. A rearview camera is standard on all models, and for 2018, so are blind-spot monitors with rear cross-traffic assist, and rear parking assistance. I've never really pushed them to the point of fade so I can't say when that would become noticeable. Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. (Read more about how we rate cars.).
FAQs or access your In fact, the NHTSA issued a recall because the voltage protection device might activate. By Brian Jones | Updated on January 28th, 2020.
The most popular engine will be the 2.4-liter inline-4 found in base models and the new S trim, which earns an EPA rating of 24 mpg city, 34 highway, 28 combined. It feels more responsive than the 2.4-liter inline-4, but weve found that its somewhat hamstrung by a indecisive 7-speed dual-clutch that clobbers through gears compared to similar units made by Volkswagen or Ford. I have had a 2004 Optima, bland styling but very reliable. The 2018 Kia Optima has been recalled 2 times by NHTSA. I have had a 2004 Optima, bland styling but very reliable. Top-trim editions of the Kia Optima get a 2.0-liter turbo-4 that manages 22/31/25 mpg, according to the EPA. Kia offers the Optima in LX, S, EX, and SX trims, starting at $23,395. Brakes are better than adequate. Why is it that some cars fly under the radar? Consumers hoping to find a quality mid-size car are often drawn to the style of the 2018 Kia Optima. The 2018 Kia Optimas chief appeal will be its ride quality and competent handlingas it should be for a mid-size sedan. (Read more about how we rate cars.). Its ability to haul cargo is as good as any sedan in its class, although the hybrid models sacrifice cargo space to their battery packs. Across all models this year, blind-spot monitors with rear cross-traffic alert and rear parking assistance are now standard, which shore up some of our concerns that active safety features were being kept from all but the most expensive models. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid only have minor color and trim changes. This software was to prevent problem to happen or give an early warning. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will remove the VPD switch and install two newly designed Battery Management Systems (BMS) that contain Overvoltage Protection Devices (OPDs), free of charge. The 2018 Kia Optima nearly aces our safety scale thanks to a perfect report card from federal and independent testers and a widely available range of advanced safety features. It appears that Kia just cant seem to get it working correctly. Noise was miraculously gone after hinges adjusted!! MY CAR IS BASICALLY 3 YEARS OLD AND HAS LESS THAT 50 K. IT HAS NEVER BEEN WRECKED , TOWED OR DAMAGED STILL PRACTICALLY NEW. The law makes Kia pay legal fees. More options are reserved for higher trim levels, which we wish Kia would reconsider. The IIHS gave the Kia Optima a Top Safety Pick award thanks to its top Good scores on all crash tests and for its headlight performanceone of the few cars to ace all its tests. Kia's number for this recall is SC218. It fails to drive at all when the engine fails, contains a defective transmission and refuses to alert drivers when people walk behind it. Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, 4WD/AWD components, driveline vibration, traction control, electronic stability control (ESC), electrical failure. (Read more about how we rate cars.). Click on other model year to view more problems: 2019 2021 2022. Get an online offer in 2 minutes using our Sell My Car tool. I need help ! Went on for 6 months with no resolve. Your author Whats your name? SX models go the whole nine with 18-inch wheels, an upgraded 8.0-inch touchscreen, a bigger driver information cluster, dual chrome exhaust tips, glossy black trim, air conditioned front seats, keyless ignition, and adaptive headlights. Standard equipment on all Optimas includes seat-mounted side airbags, side-curtain airbags, a drivers knee bag, front active headrests, electronic stability control, and hill-start assist, to keep the vehicle from rolling back when starting on a steep uphill grade. Mated to a 6-speed automatic, the 2.0-liter turbo-4 makes 245 hp and 260 lb-ft and comes on strong lower in the rev range (just 1,350 rpm). Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, clutch replacement.
Its confines are roomy and well-appointed, and its fit and finish is punching above its weight class, even in base trims. It turns out that Kia is dealing with numerous engine issues on the Optima. Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, loose or cracked seals and/or weather-stripping, air and water leaks.
If this model is the poster child for standing out, it might be better to hide in a corner instead. Its trick is efficiency, although its hardly a pokey engine. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how used vehicles are holding up in 17 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, and brakes to power equipment and the electrical system. All models come with selectable drive modes that toggle the throttle response and transmission behavior among Eco, Normal, and Sport modes. I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program. Based on information received from our latest Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. (Read more about how we rate cars.). All Rights Reserved. Confidentiality Guarantee: We keep your information completely confidential and will not send you spam or sell your information. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Optima hybrid vehicles. For review, weve seen plenty of ways that the Optima stands out, as intended by the automaker. On challenging pavement, it loses its composure a few ticks before standouts like the Honda Accord and the Toyota Camry. A relatively large number of powertrain options await Optima shoppers, not including Optima Hybrid models that we cover separately. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-In Hybrid vehicles.
I agree to receive emails from The Car Connection. I have a 2018 Kia Sport and the motor is bad and the wont replace it and its under motor Tran warranty. Owner notification letters were mailed November 29, 2021. I looked at many other car-makers and couldn't beat the content and quality to price ratio. Local Kia dealer could not find solution to problem.
Wed like that word to return to its 1985-pinnacle of popularity, but for now it seems a little gratuitous. Message or call 877-795-3666 today. Another example of transmission trouble with this model is illustrated with Service Bulletin #TSBENG177. of 2018 Kia Optima owners. Which Brands Make the Most Reliable Appliances? Top-trim SX models get swathes of sound-deadening material, but all trims of the Kia Optima are quiet inside. Another Optima would be nice if Kia hadn't neutered the engine -31 BHP and -10 TQ. An optional 1.6-liter turbo-4 is found in LX models that makes 178 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque and is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. Describe your legal concern or comment Briefly describe your experience Briefly describe your experience. Base models feature keyless ignition, Bluetooth connectivity, power-adjustable front seats, a rearview camera, 16-inch wheels, and a 7.0-inch touchscreen for infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Kia Optima can climb the ladder of creature comforts quickly, but no models are particularly high-priced. "Belong to a monthly car wash club and the drivers side trim comes off frequently. With a properly functioning engine, a vehicle feels comfortable to drive and has the power needed to get anywhere in style.
With all of these issues and the countless others on the Internet, its clear to see that this vehicle has gotten a lot of attention, but only for negative reasons. We're partnering with Carvana because we want to make it easy for you to find the exact vehicle you're looking for. The Car Connection is published by. There were no warning indicators illuminated. As mentioned, I've only had routine oil change maintenance over the 80K+ miles. Headlight indicator would flash on and headlights would turn off intermittently". THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 22,000. We think you might be able to get better returns in the real-world with a light foot. The Optima retains a familiar MacPherson front strut and multi-link rear setup, although revised front bushings and cushier springs damps fussy pavement. Consult your dealer for actual price, payments, and complete details. The naturally aspirated 2.4-liter 185-hp four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission found in the Optimas LX and EX trims make up a workaday powertrain. They reset the transmissions computer timing and all was again perfect.". This shouldnt even be a concern on a new vehicle, yet Kia is scrambling to figure out ways to fix it. These vehicles are equipped with a Voltage Protection Device (VPD), designed to protect the high voltage battery module, that may activate inadvertently. Sergei Lemberg, Esq., is the Connecticut attorney responsible for this advertisement. ", "It would not allow it to auto shut off the gas pumps. Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, leaks. Kia's number for this recall is SC162. It has been a flawless daily driver for 83000 miles with only routine oil changes at 5000 mile intervals. Every competitor has adopted similar dimensions, which means that the Optima isnt as revolutionary as it once was. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. Kias UVO infotainment system includes a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen that comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and six-speaker audio. Wedged in the middle for this year is a new Optima S trim that adds a sportier look: a new front bumper, rear decklid spoiler, 17-inch wheels, and a dual-pane sunroof for $24,395.
Others are following suit. reliability information available to consumers. Dealers will inspect the engine. No power. Safe Summer Activities for Kids During the Pandemic, What You Need to Know About Bug Spray for Kids, Best Cooling Mattress Toppers From Consumer Reports' Tests. THE CONTACT AND A PEDESTRIAN EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. subscriber survey for over 300,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown I then had/have a 2011 Optima, great new style with all the bells and whistlesalso very reliable and fun to drive. The Optimas luxury-influenced details are a marked improvement over last-generation sedans, befitting Kias rise as a more premium brand. The front windows, dash, windshield, and body panels have gotten special attention by sound designers to quell any thrums from the inline-4 engines, and with good effectthe doors close with a reassuring thunk reserved for luxury vehicles. After month it was done. It states that the ECU and TCU require updates to repair shift quality concerns and extended crank conditions. In fact, the company talks about these complaints throughout several bulletins as they attempt to figure it all out. ", "Started getting wind noise around top of driver's side window or door shortly after delivery of car.
Base Optima LX, Optima EX, and Optima S sedans and will be fitted with a 185-horsepower, 2.4-liter inline-4 that uses direct injection to maximize fuel economy.
THERE WERE NO INJURIES. Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, remote engine start, alarm or security system. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov. Between the engine and transmission, its amazing that owners can get anywhere behind the wheel of this car. Its just another case of Kia not living up to their promises. 2018 Kia Optima Problems and Top Complaints Is Your Car A Lemon. Check engine light, sensors (includes O2 or oxygen sensor), emission control devices (includes EGR), engine computer, engine computer, fuel cap, fuel gauge/sender, fuel injection system, fuel pump, fuel leaks, stalling or hesitation. Who are we? Please enter a valid phone number. (Read more about how we rate cars.). Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbo or supercharger, timing chain or timing belt. Lets talk numbers. data for a specific year. (Read more about how we rate cars.). THE VEHICLE WAS PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND SMOKE APPEARED UNDER THE HOOD. I purchased my 2013 Kia Optima SXL exactly 5 years ago as am writing this. Transmission failed after 4 months and 3,800 miles while driving local streets. The Optima's rear seat is the least spacious among its closest competitors. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. I HAVE ALSO READ SIMILAR RECALLS ABOUT ELECTRONIC ISSUES THAT ARE ONLY RELEVANT TO THE HYBRIDS . Took it to Kia dealer and they replaced an electronic module. Read more about the firm. I then had/have a 2011 Optima, great new style with all the bells and whistlesalso very reliable and fun to drive. EX models are equipped similarly but add standard leather seats, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, available active safety features (which we cover separately) and a woodgrain trim thats a little more upmarket than the base dash. Front-seat storage is as good as any rival, but there are fewer nooks in the rear seat. The trade-off is a little more body lean, which isnt uncouth for its class. The 2018 Kia Optima is a smooth mover with revised suspension bits from previous generations. The SXL model has been discontinued; its top-of-the-line features are now offered as the Limited package on SX trim. In fact, the Kia suffers few negativesother than having excellent competitors that have virtually perfected the family-sedan formula. Click below to find your next car. Whats your name? Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. All models are front-wheel drive and manage combined fuel economy at 25 mpg or higher. THE MOMENT I DID THIS THE CAR CUT OFF. Most noticeable at highway speeds with A/C on. We give it a 7 out of 10.
Please enter a valid email adress, Your phone Whats your phone number? Base LX models dont feel particularly cheap either, which we can't say about some of the other mid-size competitors. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Acceleration off the line is brisk but things really take off once you are rolling and floor it. Our grand daughter had this problem in her 2012 Optima. The manufacturer was not contacted. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPAs website and select Find & Compare Cars. 2022 MH Sub I, LLC. We much prefer the smoother and quicker combination of the 178-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter four and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Power or manual windows, locks and latches, tailgate, hatch or trunk, doors or sliding doors, mirrors, seat controls, safety belts, sunroof, convertible top. The 1.6-liter turbo-4 is how the Optima manages combined fuel economy over 30 mpg, although every model is fuel-efficient for its class. There is no charge unless we win. Its performance and comfort are the only places for improvement, but its worth noting that the Optima is still above average in both respects. ", "A recall for a computer update on engine performance", "Earlier models would slow down engine. On our style-o-meter we give the 2018 Kia Optima a point above average for its exterior profile and attractive interior. Most models will have power-adjustable front seats, which adapt to a wide-ranging set of body types. Got worse & louder as speed increased. Reactivate now I HAVE READ MORE REVIEWS OF PEOPLE GOING THROUGH SIMILAR THINGS. "Clunking noise coming from the rear every time I got a bump or potholes". THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO NORTHSTAR KIA WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WAS AN ENGINE FIRE. Its simply not on the same level as the best in this class, though. Prices shown are the prices people paid including dealer discounts for a used. Cant get them to replace it. engine, transmission, and brakes to power equipment and the electrical system. This score shows whether the model had more or fewer problems overall than the average model of that year, calculated from the total number of problems reported by subscribers in all 17 trouble spots. AS I WAS LEAVING FROM WORK MY CAR DID A VERY ABRUPT JERK THAT I ACKNOWLEDGED BUT DIDN?T THINK ANYTHING OF IT BECAUSE MY GAS LIGHT HAD JUST CAME ON. Dealership replaced weatherstripping but still have road noise. In addition to top marks from independent testers, federal regulators gave the Optima across-the-board five-star ratings for crash safety, including a five-star overall rating. Brian Jones spent more than 20 years working as an ASE Certified Master Tech and Parts Specialist at multiple dealerships. Just look at this NHTSA complaint. Sound off and share your experience with other visitors in the comment box below. to help you make better choices for lifes big moments and the everyday ones in between. The say I need all kinds of paper work to think about fixing it. (Guess they think because we're over 50, we're just CRAZY!!!). That earns a 7 out of 10 on our fuel efficiency scale. In his spare time, Brian enjoys working on pickup trucks, muscle cars, Jeeps and anything related to motorsports. The Optimas interior can be very nice, but it can also be very spartan, and prices ramp up steeply for the better-outfitted trim levels. Sadly, thats not the case with the 2018 Kia Optima. Do not assume that you are entitled to any compensation as a result of the consumer complaints you have. Take a walk around a Kia lot and youre likely to find the usual suspects for the Optimaa budget-friendly Optima LX that starts at $23,395, including destination, all the way to the fully loaded Optima SX for $31,395. The dealership replace the entire gas tank. As manager told me they dont have any ideas how to fix it. See the jurisdictions in which our lawyers are licensed, admitted, or otherwise authorized to practice. It worked, & now no more awful whistling while driving. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. One nitpick: Wed probably delete the Turbo badges found on the front fender portholes near the rear doors on SX trims. Radiator, cooling fan, antifreeze leaks, water pump, thermostat, overheating. Bluetooth), voice control commands, steering wheel controls, portable music device interface (e.g., iPod/MP3 player), backup or other camera/sensors. Wide rear doors make entry and exit easier for most of us, however. The 2018 Kia Optima is a mid-size sedan and proof that the talent pool for value-packed four-doors isn't yet dry. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov. 