Sedan · Hybrid
Kia Optima 2016–2020 (JF)

- Your fit
- Take the quiz
- Price
- $22,900–$35,000
- MPG
- 42
- Strength: Excellent safety
- Strength: Strong running costs
- Strength: Strong cargo & utility
- Watch-out: Below-average driving fun
How it scores for you10 scores
A frugal, 5-star-safe family sedan with 42 mpg and PHEV range, but the engine-heavy complaint record echoing Theta II troubles clouds its reliability.
Recalled somewhat less often than cars of the same model years; 2 of its 8 recalls were serious. About 6% of its owner complaints describe a crash, fire or injury. Based on recalls and serious defect reports — it doesn't capture everyday repairs or problems fixed by warranty extensions. Adjusted -5 points for its wider reputation.
5-star overall NHTSA crash rating (frontal 5, side 5, rollover 5).
About $1,600 a year in fuel (EPA estimate) — cheaper to run than about 83% of cars we track.
15.9 cu ft of cargo space — more than about 73% of other sedans we track.
Roomy five-seat midsize sedan with generous rear legroom; 15.9 cu ft trunk is adequate (hybrid/PHEV models lose some cargo). Solid family space.
FWD midsize sedan with 185 hp and hybrid/PHEV focus prioritizes efficiency over engagement. Composed but unremarkable handling, modest power. Typical family-sedan feel.
For its era the Optima offered a competitive infotainment suite, available UVO, and PHEV capability with 29 mi electric range, slightly above segment-typical tech content.
Well-regarded quiet cabin and smooth ride for a midsize sedan, good seats and refined hybrid drivetrain. Comfortable, above-average for the class.
SUVs and hybrids usually hold their value better than average.
No published tow rating; front- or rear-wheel drive only.
Safety & recalls13 recalls
13 recalls · 8 common complaint areas across 2016–2020
- Engine — 294 complaints (2016)
- Recall — Forward collision avoidance: automatic emergency braking (2019)
- Engine — 133 complaints (2017)
2020
- Complaint clusterEngine62 complaintscomplaints:ENGINE
I have a 2020 Optima, apparently there is a recall for the older models, yet mine is experiencing the exact same issues. Over oil consumption leading to engine failure. I have been in a rental for a month and a half due to fighting with Kia to correct the issue all while they drag their feet. Smells
- Complaint clusterPowertrain26 complaintscomplaints:POWER TRAIN
While driving, my 2020 Kia Optima suddenly lost engine power and went into limp mode on the road, leaving me stranded and creating a severe safety hazard in traffic. The vehicle threw diagnostic trouble code P1326, which indicates a catastrophic rod bearing failure. The problem has been confirmed by
- Complaint clusterUnknown or other13 complaintscomplaints:UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Snow White Pearl exterior paint is peeling off hood and sides of our 2020 Kia Optima. We paid an extra $495 for this paint.
- Complaint clusterElectrical12 complaintscomplaints:ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I own a 2020 Kia Optima and have been experiencing multiple ongoing problems with the vehicle. The vehicle is leaking and/or losing engine oil at an excessive rate. I have had to add oil multiple times within a short period of time because the oil level continues to drop. I am concerned that the con
- Complaint clusterEngine and engine cooling7 complaintscomplaints:ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at a full stop, the red oil warning light illuminated; however, after driving off, the warning light disappeared. The vehicle was driven to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with an oil pump failure caused
2019
- RecallForward collision avoidance: automatic emergency braking19V539000
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2019 Optima vehicles equipped with Gamma 1.6L Turbo-GDI or Theta II 2.0L Turbo-GDI engines. A software error in the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) system may cause the braking assist function to not engage when a stationary vehicle is detected
- Complaint clusterEngine60 complaintscomplaints:ENGINE
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. Th
- Complaint clusterUnknown or other31 complaintscomplaints:UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Blind spot forward collision detection lane departure warning rear cross traffic warning
- Complaint clusterElectrical18 complaintscomplaints:ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Drove roughly an hour from Roseville MI to Temperance MI. Car was fine. No issues on the drive. Gauges were all fine. Got to my friend’s house and took my stuff inside. Came back out immediately and saw dark smoke now coming from the hood. Attempted to open, but couldn't unlatch the hood after it wa
- Complaint clusterPowertrain17 complaintscomplaints:POWER TRAIN
While driving, my vehicle suddenly began shuddering and shaking. The vehicle lost power and would not accelerate properly. I had to press the brake pedal unusually hard. After parking, the vehicle would not move properly in reverse or drive. I turned the vehicle off and restarted it, and it moved on
- Complaint clusterStructure13 complaintscomplaints:STRUCTURE
Engine burners oil at about 1qt per 1000 miles. There is no leak, and no repair to stop the oil from burning quickly. I have to refill my engine with oil several times in between oil changes. Paint is peeling in various spots on my hood and bumper. I first noticed a small area along the border
2018
- RecallHybrid propulsion18V161000
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Optima hybrid vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with a Voltage Protection Device (VPD), designed to protect the high voltage battery module, that may activate inadvertently.
- RecallEngine21V844000
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which can result in engine damage.
- RecallLatches/locks/linkages: trunk lid: LATCH23V594000
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Rio, 2016-2018 Optima, 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. The trunk latch base may crack, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Mot
- Complaint clusterEngine94 complaintscomplaints:ENGINE
The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the vehicle jerked abnormally. The failure persisted while driving, and the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to restart the vehicle; however, the failure persisted while driving. The vehicle was tow
- Complaint clusterElectrical30 complaintscomplaints:ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I am submitting this complaint regarding ongoing and persistent mechanical issues with my vehicle since the time of purchase. The vehicle has repeatedly shut off unexpectedly, creating a serious safety concern. Initially, I suspected the issue might be related to the battery, and I have replaced th
- Complaint clusterUnknown or other23 complaintscomplaints:UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2018 Kia Optima Dealer Ed Voyles Kia Smyrna began Recall SC340. Vehicle drove in running. Dealer flashed ECM software, discovered non-original engine/ECU. Vehicle now won’t start. Dealer document states 'will not start after recall.' Dealer refuses to restore to running condition citing prior repair
- Complaint clusterPowertrain20 complaintscomplaints:POWER TRAIN
There is already the theta 2 campaign on my Kia optima but Kia is not upholding their warranty for a new engine. Kia customer care told me that untill my car actually throws a rod then they will not fix it. So I could be doing 80 down the freeway and jeopardize not only my safety but everyone else's
- Complaint clusterEngine and engine cooling14 complaintscomplaints:ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
See attached document for complaint.
2017
- RecallHybrid propulsion18V161000
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Optima hybrid vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with a Voltage Protection Device (VPD), designed to protect the high voltage battery module, that may activate inadvertently.
- RecallEngine; fuel system, gasoline: delivery: hoses, lines/piping, and fittings18V907000
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pi
- RecallEngine21V844000
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which can result in engine damage.
- RecallLatches/locks/linkages: trunk lid: LATCH23V594000
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Rio, 2016-2018 Optima, 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. The trunk latch base may crack, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Mot
- Complaint clusterEngine133 complaintscomplaints:ENGINE
While driving at highway speed, my engine began to produce a loud knocking noise without prior warning. Within few seconds, the engine seized completely causing sudden loss of motive power.This caused a dangerous situation— loss of power steering and barking at highway speed, leaving me stranded in
- Complaint clusterElectrical37 complaintscomplaints:ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The electrical wiring harness connecting to the hybrid system electric fuel pump(s) was found to have significant corrosion and a missing factory-installed protective covering. This is a manufacturing defect. The protective covering was never installed at the factory, leaving the wiring exposed to m
- Complaint clusterUnknown or other28 complaintscomplaints:UNKNOWN OR OTHER
“My vehicle, a 2017 Kia Optima, had repeated safety issues documented in service records. Despite multiple repair attempts (per attached records), the problem remained unresolved and put my safety at risk. I’m seeking further investigation or resolution.”
- Complaint clusterPowertrain23 complaintscomplaints:POWER TRAIN
Loosing oil putting oil in every 3 to 4 days no leaks on ground or oil pan or drain plug.oil don't smell or looks burnt happened around did 2 oil changes in a week still the same. Car will sputer hesitation on acceleration every so often have all updateds and recalls.
- Complaint clusterSteering12 complaintscomplaints:STEERING
Since 4/1 my car has intermittently lost power steering. I received dashboard warning lights and the wheel was difficult to turn. When I shutoff the car and turned back on, the warning lights were gone and the steering returned. My mechanic did a diagnostic and found the following codes c1259, c1
2016
- RecallAirbags: frontal16V231000
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016 Kia Optima vehicles manufactured November 10, 2015, to February 12, 2016. In these vehicles, a chemical enhancer required for the for the second stage deployment of the driver's frontal air bag was not loaded, resulting in the second sta
- RecallPowertrain: axle assembly: axle shaft16V705000
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016 Kia Optima vehicles manufactured November 13, 2015, to April 23, 2016 and equipped with a 2.4l engine. The right front axle driveshaft may crack and fail.
- RecallAirbags: frontal: driver side: inflator module17V007000
Kia Motors America (Kia) has recalled one 2016 Optima vehicle. In this vehicle, the end seal for the driver's frontal air bag inflator may not have been properly installed, possibly resulting in reduced inflation of the frontal air bag in the event of a crash.
- RecallEngine; fuel system, gasoline: delivery: hoses, lines/piping, and fittings18V907000
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pi
- RecallLatches/locks/linkages: trunk lid: LATCH23V594000
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Rio, 2016-2018 Optima, 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. The trunk latch base may crack, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Mot
- Complaint clusterEngine294 complaintscomplaints:ENGINE
engine failure, i was driving home from work and i went to accelerate from 0 to 20 miles and the car hesitated and didn't want to move. I took the car to the dealer three days later and it was confirmed that i needed a new engine. I was told by the dealership i was outside of my warranty but i just
- Complaint clusterUnknown or other94 complaintscomplaints:UNKNOWN OR OTHER
NHTSA Bulletin TSB BOD300 My KIA 2016 Optima Turbo has all four windows impacted by the defective gear. I've opened a case with KIA and it's case number 25563361. None of my windows roll up or down. This presents several very serious safety issues. The dealer has had my vehicle for over 2 weeks. Wh
- Complaint clusterElectrical80 complaintscomplaints:ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
While driving at highway speeds on the freeway in San Diego, the engine of my 2016 Kia Optima catastrophically seized without warning. I instantly lost all power steering, brake assist, and electrical power, creating an immediate life-threatening emergency. The vehicle was towed to a Kia dealer. Cor
- Complaint clusterPowertrain70 complaintscomplaints:POWER TRAIN
Vehicle was purchased in 2023. AC blower failure occurred for the first time in June 2024 and was repaired by PepBoys. On 4/2/2025 the ve3hicle had an active recall event when the engine seized on the highway because of a faulty oil pump/filter, Engine was replaced 4/17/2025 under that recall. Kia a
- Complaint clusterExterior lighting39 complaintscomplaints:EXTERIOR LIGHTING
The engine is a problem and all I’m ever told us “ this vehicle is know to have engine problems. This is dangerous to have in the road. Kia is aware of this. Why sale the vehicle knowing this and not disclosing this info to the consumer upon purchase. There is no truth in lending. It’s plain sight r
Cost to own$15,500 / 5 yr
MSRP, new
$22,900–$35,000
Estimated used price, by model year
$1,600/yr
EPA estimate, combined fuel cost per year.
Specs
City MPG
39
Highway MPG
46
Combined MPG
42
Electric range
29 mi
Horsepower
185 hp
Doors
4
Length
191.3 in
Width
73.2 in
Height
57.5 in
Wheelbase
110.6 in
Curb weight
3,490 lb
Cargo volume
15.9 cu ft
Check a listing
Sign in to check a specific listing against this car's data.