2014 Kia Optima
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 586 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 6th highest complaint count among 20 Optima model years with reports.
Of the 2014 reports, 20 involved a crash and 42 involved a fire. 22 people were injured and 2 people died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Service brakes, hydraulic, antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip, control unit/modulePark outsideSep 25, 2023
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
Campaign 23V652000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasoline, delivery, hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsFeb 17, 2022
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Optima vehicles that were previously repaired under NHTSA recall number 20V-100. The low pressure fuel hose may be damaged, or missing heat-protective tape, which can result in a fuel leak.
A fuel leak can increase the risk of a fire.
Dealers will replace the low pressure fuel hose, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 2, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-33-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC228.
Campaign 22V093000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulic, antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip, control unit/modulePark outsideMay 10, 2021
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles previously recalled under recall 20V-519. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.
An electrical short in the HECU increases the risk of a fire while parked or driving.
Owners are advised to park outside and away from other vehicles and structures until the recall repair is completed. Dealers will install a new multi-fuse, and inspect the HECU for leaks, replacing the HECU if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 2, 2021. This recall supersedes previous NHTSA recall number 20V-519. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC212.
Campaign 21V331000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulic, antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip, control unit/modulePark outsideAug 27, 2020
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.
If the HECU short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the HECU for leaking brake fluid and replace the HECU if necessary, free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside and away from other vehicles and structures until the recall repair is completed. The recall began October 20, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC197.
Campaign 20V519000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasoline, delivery, hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsFeb 21, 2020
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Optima vehicles equipped with 2.4L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) or 2.0L GDI Turbo engines. The low pressure fuel hose may deteriorate and crack over time due to heat generated within the engine compartment.
If the fuel hose cracks, a fuel leak can occur, increasing the risk of a fire.
Kia will notify Owners, and Dealers will inspect the low pressure fuel hose for damage or leaking, replacing it as necessary. If no damage or leaking is found, a heat-protective tape will be installed. Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began June 12, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC187.
Campaign 20V100000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasoline, delivery, hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsDec 19, 2018
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 pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Kia has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC172.
Campaign 18V907000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine cooling, engineMar 31, 2017
Kia Motor Company (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Optima, 2012-2014 Sorento and 2011-2013 Sportage vehicles. Machining errors during the engine manufacturing process may cause premature bearing wear within the engine.
Bearing wear may result in the engine seizing, increasing the risk of a crash.
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine assembly, and replace the engine if necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 20, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC147.
Campaign 17V224000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
586 reports, newest first.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Jan 1, 2024
starter smoking cut off on me have to have it towd gas leak smell of gas
Electrical system, Service brakes, Engine, Dec 15, 2023
Exact same issue happened to my 2014 Kia Optima Hybrid (NHTSA ID Number: 11556409). I was traveling on the freeway approximately 65mph and out of nowhere the engine turned off, brakes did not work and steering quality went to a manual operation. I almost got into a serious accident as I could not control my vehicle. The hybrid system warning light, to stop using the vehicle became illuminated for approximately 30 seconds. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer ( Koons Kia, 14208 Richmond Hwy, Woodbridge, VA 22191, United States). We are still awaiting diagnostics. A few years ago the standard hybrid light came on (not the same warning light) in which we took it to the same dealer to fix. It was still under warranty at the time, however took them weeks to fix the issue as I had to take it back multiple times. They eventually replaced something in the hybrid system that was worth around $5-6k, since then we have had no other issues. We conduct the routine maintenance on the vehicle, passes all inspections.
Other or unspecified, Dec 15, 2023
KIA OPTIMA “WHITE PEARL” PAINT DELAMINATION
Power train, Engine, Dec 14, 2023
unknown
Structure, Nov 27, 2023
Paint (Pearl White) has been peeling and delaminating for a number of years. Tried working w/Kia directly. Their Customer Care center told us they have a memo stating the known issue with the pearl white paint and told us to send in pictures, get it repaired and send in the bill. We didn't want to do this directly so received an estimate from the body shop. Kia then recanted and said we weren't under warranty. We've seen many other complaints across Kia and Hyundai cars related to this pearl white paint. We just want them to cover repainting. The body shop has 50 photos to include the actual paint thinness measured with digital measurement device.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Nov 27, 2023
The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the contact depressed the brake pedal to slow for traffic however, the vehicle failed to properly respond. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated the vehicle drove off the roadway, jumped the curb and came to a stop. The vehicle was towed to a towing compound. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 79,000.
Engine, Hybrid propulsion system, Nov 22, 2023
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. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a case. The failure mileage was approximately 62,348.
Structure, Nov 18, 2023
paintKIA Kia optima lx SNOW WHITE PAINT PEELING CHIPPING AND DELAMINATION! it started about a few months ago in oct 2023 and now its starting to peel in different places please help this is not fair!
Engine and engine cooling, Nov 16, 2023
The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to coast to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a general failure with the engine. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V224000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 75,000.
Air bags, Nov 15, 2023
Airbag / SRS light came on. Took vehicle to the dealer service center for diagnostics. They found the issue is the Air Bag - Clockspring Assembly / Spiral Cable: 51K1Z01 : BODY ELECT CONCERN. With the airbag light on none of the airbags will deploy in the event of an accident. So the clock spring assembly must be replaced and is currently not under any manufacturer warranty.
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Nov 8, 2023
I was with my family on PA I-476. While traveling home in our 2014 Kia Optima the vehicle’s dash lights such as oil lamp, battery, etc popped on. As soon as I noticed the lights the vehicle had completely lost all drivability. Lights operable and possibly radio and accessories but I had to react so quickly as it was so unexpected. The vehicle completely lost its function and I was unable to operate it but in the capacity of steering and hardly able to break. Lost all power components. We are so thankful I was able to make a split second decision to dodge traffic while vehicle was decelerating, 18 wheelers going by 70+ mph (speed limit) and pulled off to one of the few shoulders. This scenario was so dangerous that if I didn’t believe in a higher being before, I do now! Most the lanes are sandwiched by concrete barriers and there happened to be a coned off area I was able to decisively pull over to. There was no warning this was happening. The vehicle was operating normally. The engine compartment was smoking and all I could think was to get my family away from traffic. The look on my wife and daughters face and the words my daughter asked me was life changing. The vehicle is at Kia dealership since Saturday night. It’s Wednesday and they cannot provide diagnostic yet but are charging me for a starter already? They began to inspect vehicle Monday.
Vehicle speed control, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 18, 2023
engine was replaced per CASE # 14397135, and PI1803Y/Z, SINCE engine repair Turbocharger Boost Control Position Sensor “A” Circuit High CODES (P2562 & P2565) continuously come and go. Check engine light comes on and off for the same codes. Knocking noise continues, loss of acceleration as if voltage or gas was lost, steering wheel speed control buttons (+/-) no longer properly function since engine replacement. It now has a class 2 leak. Safety risk:when driving it loses speed or fails to accelerate may cause crash. KIA dealership has tried to access the code but Codes are spontaneous, same for loss of acceleration.
Air bags, Oct 17, 2023, crash
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.
Electrical system, Service brakes, Oct 10, 2023
In accordance with Kia recall SC212, client had HECU/ABS module & multi fuse kit replaced/installed on September 10, 2021. The ABS warning light began to show on 10/6/2023. Client was told by licensed Kia dealer that the HECU needed to be replaced again due to fire risk. Dealer stated since there aren’t any active recall campaigns on vehicle, repairs would need to be paid by client. Client is seeking reimbursement for having the HECU replaced the second time since the recall replacement failed.
Structure, Oct 10, 2023
I have snow white pearl color car. I noticed that the there is painting peeling off my car. I also had my windshield replaced by safelite and they took a chunk of paint off my car as well and are refusing to pay for damage.
Other or unspecified, Service brakes, Oct 6, 2023
Vehicle is making a humming noise while the car is off. Both the brake light and ABS lights are on. Based on year, make and model, vehicle is one of the cars included in: nhtsa ID-23V-652000, however VIN does not show an active recall. Repairs will have to come out of pocket since there is not a recall by VIN, even though vehicle is having the same symptoms as recall aforementioned.
Engine, Oct 3, 2023
Rattle noise on the freeway, all electric lights on dash board started flashing. Car died on the side of the road. Did not restart. Engine was making a bubble noise (like overheating) with steam. When I checked my oil, showed dark and metal flakes. Recent oil change. Towed my mechanic and they said I have MAJOR engine issues.
Engine, Oct 3, 2023
The contact owns a 2014 Kia Optima. The contact state that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled without warning. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the timing chain had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure and an appointment was scheduled to have the vehicle towed to the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 3, 2023, fire
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 installed was. The teens then trespassed into my home, broke the windows and stole my vehicle. I have lived in fear since this has happened. I have lost jobs, income, and peace due to The purchase of this vehicle. Kia has never assisted or kept the promises they made to restore the vehicle. These past 10 years agave been a nightmare and as an African American woman I believe I was targeted as a purchaser for this make and model. My life had been hell since the purchase of this vehicle. I have not been able to satisfy payment due to repairs, thefts, fires, and more. Please anyone. Someone. Help. This is the most heartbreaking experience as an American. I have worked for my country 20 years and do not feel like an equal citizen. I have been homeless, jobless, unstable, and watched my life and family life flash before me in near death accidents involving this car. When I purchased this car I had a great job, credit score, and home. Now I have more anxiety, fear, bills, and no help with this Kia.
Steering, Service brakes, Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 1, 2023
While driving my car an Alan went off telling me to pull over and turn off the vehicle. Unfortunately, I had no steering, brakes or acceleration and me and my two little boys were almost hit. I checked and my car year, make and model had a recall for the exact issue and module but mine wasn’t listed in the recall and I think it should be!
Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 30, 2023, fire
I was driving down the street when car caught on fire out of no where.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Sep 9, 2023
My engine went out, the car went from 75mph to- 50mph on freeway so fast, i had just got an oil change, my car is at shop now but wont be ready for a couple weeks, it gave me no warnings at all, the check engine light went on right when it pulled back on freeway. Super dangerous and just glad nothing happened !
Steering, Sep 6, 2023
Steering seems to binding while turning the wheel in either direction.
Electrical system, Sep 6, 2023
The antenna cover completely came off, nothing hit it, it just fell off. I know there is a technical bulletin SA272 for the 2016MY Optima for the exact same reason. My radio no longer works as it displays antenna error and I have lost all AM Radio usage and FM Radio is barely clear. I’m afraid this could cause an electrical issue now that the wiring and circuitry for the antenna is now exposed.
Steering, Other or unspecified, Engine, Sep 5, 2023
This will be my Second Review about this dealer's service department. I'm not reviewing the service technicians but I'm reviewing the customer service, porters and advisors. I had my vehicle towed there on the 23rd of August after waiting a full month for my appointment. I have called to check on any updates to see have my 2014 Kia has been looked at. 1st time they didn't even know my vehicle was there even after confirming with a service representative. 2nd time I was told when my vehicle was assigned to an advisor someone would contact me. Today I called and spoke with [XXX] and he put me on hold to speak with an advisor. After 15min Of silence. I thought maybe I was forgotten about by mistake. I called back and [XXX] who stated this was him name when I called back was very RUDE. He stated I put you on hold to someone who would speak to you and hung up on me. This is when I called back to speak directly to a supervisor in the service department. I been on hold over 16min as I write this review. No hold music just silence. My 1st encounter here for a recall I was told to pull in lane and leave keys in car. I waited as porters took other vehicles and mine sat blocking lanes. To my amazement I listened to them saying what assholes people where for leaving their cars, when an advisor took the keys. This is an great establishment with a lot of History to have its name tarnished by bad apples. 22min on hold and one has cared to even speak to me. Please pay attention to hold times at to of screen. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)