2016 Kia Optima
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 756 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 4th highest complaint count among 20 Optima model years with reports.
Of the 2016 reports, 27 involved a crash and 19 involved a fire. 21 people were injured and 1 person died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Latches/locks/linkages, trunk lid, latchAug 24, 2023
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 Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
Dealers will replace the trunk latch base subassembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC278.
Campaign 23V594000 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
Air bags, frontal, driver side, inflator moduleJan 6, 2017
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.
In the event of a crash, an air bag that does not inflate fully increases the risk of injury.
The affected vehicle was remedied on January 10, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC143.
Campaign 17V007000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, axle assembly, axle shaftOct 3, 2016
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.
If the driveshaft cracks and separates from the vehicle, it will not be able to move forward. Additionally, if the parking brake is not applied upon exiting the vehicle, the vehicle may roll. Either scenario can increase the risk of a crash.
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front axle driveshaft, free of charge. The recall began November 2016. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC139.
Campaign 16V705000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontalApr 21, 2016
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 stage not deploying in necessitating crashes.
If the second stage air bag does not deploy it increases the risk of injury or death.
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began on May 6, 2016. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC131.
Campaign 16V231000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: engine
442 reports, newest first. Show all
Engine, Feb 3, 2026
The engine stalled without warning while I was pulling out of my driveway into the street, creating an unsafe condition due to sudden loss of power. After waiting briefly, the vehicle restarted and was moved back into the driveway. It was towed the following day due to loss of confidence in safe operation. The vehicle was diagnosed with engine failure consistent with known defects affecting Kia Optima vehicles equipped with Theta II engines. Kia denied coverage under the extended engine warranty / class action settlement solely because the KSDS (PI1802 ECU update) had not been installed prior to the failure. As the second owner, I was never notified of this update before the incident and had no opportunity to complete it. This failure was sudden, unanticipated, and safety-related. I am submitting this complaint to document an engine stall and loss of power condition posing a safety risk.
Exterior lighting, Engine, Feb 1, 2026
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 robbery. What if I’m far from home and stranded because vehicle set fire or broke down in hazardous condition weather. I constantly needing oil changes because of this engine. The dealership is aware. They tell me to trade it in or get rid of it because it’s going to go for a fact. I’ve never missed oil changes. I put oil every time the oil indicator light comes on. Now for the 3rd time the check engine light is on. 2 times for misfire code. The vehicle engine holds sludge no matter how much you get oil changes. The mechanic told me this year make and model is known for this very fact. I want my money back. Kelly blue book don’t give enough. I was scammed into this car but I managed to pay it off. A car the sales person scammed me and wouldn’t take the vehicle back. I complained to the general manager. They always act like he wasn’t available. They kept claiming new ones started. After almost a year of those games I had to move and the case never got solved. But even when I complained their maintenance person stole my rims. They told me prove it. Just all bad experience. I just want my money. Even if they gave me another engine. It’s still going to be the same problem. A bad engine. 2016 Kia optima’s should not have been continuously sold with them knowing it has bad engines. Even the headlights don’t work. Very dim. Car smells like burning fumes when driving. Please please help. This isn’t fair lending practice. People trust them and they are dishonest sellers.
Engine, Jan 31, 2026
My 2016 Kia Optima experienced a sudden catastrophic engine failure in July 2025. The failure is consistent with widely reported Theta II engine rod bearing defects that cause engine seizure and stalling. The vehicle did not receive the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) update prior to my ownership, and I was never notified of this critical safety-related update. The engine failure occurred without warning and could have resulted in loss of power while driving, creating a serious safety risk. This vehicle model year has a documented history of engine defects and class action settlements related to premature engine failure. I believe this represents an ongoing safety defect. I am requesting that NHTSA review this failure as part of its investigation into Kia Optima engine defects.
Engine, Jan 14, 2026
While driving my 2016 Kia Optima, the vehicle experienced a sudden and complete loss of engine power and stalled without warning. At the time, I was Door Dashing for income. The engine seized and the vehicle came to an immediate stop in the middle of 4925 Wolf Creek Dr SW, Atlanta, GA, a narrow two-lane road with limited street lighting. I was forced to remain stopped in the roadway in darkness for over an hour while multiple oncoming vehicles passed by, creating a serious safety risk. The vehicle could not be restarted and had to be left on the roadside overnight. The following day, the vehicle would only start briefly when jump-started, ran for approximately 15 seconds, and shut off again. It could not move and was towed to an authorized Kia dealership. At the dealership, technicians jump-started the vehicle, performed diagnostics, added engine oil, cleared codes, reset adaptive values, and conducted a test drive. During that test drive, the engine seized again, and the vehicle had to be towed back. Kia approved a full engine replacement under its extended engine warranty, acknowledging engine failure consistent with known defects. However, after the engine replacement, the vehicle would not start at all. Kia stated oil intrusion from the failed engine damaged electronic components, leaving the vehicle non-operational. Kia denied coverage for the resulting damage and issued an estimated $6,000 repair bill for engine harness, injector sub-harness, and ECU replacement. The vehicle remains inoperable following an approved warranty repair. This incident involved sudden loss of propulsion while driving, occurred without warning, resulted in repeated engine seizure, and left the vehicle disabled in traffic at night. This appears consistent with known Kia engine defects and presents a serious safety concern that warrants investigation.
Engine, Jan 9, 2026
Car is burning a lot of oil, took to dealer went through several tests and they claim burning 1.5 quarts was within limit for 1000 miles. Then started getting misfire codes and car went into limp mode a couple of times. They said to replace spark plugs because they were fouled and clean injection. Performed those requested actions, then 45k later getting misfire codes again, took to another dealer they said plugs are fould and clean injection again. Asked them to provide a permanent fix for the issue so the car does not keep fouling out the plugs and they said the only way to fix was to replace the motor. I asked, since you have no guaranteed fix why don't you replace the defective motor under warranty. They said because it is not locked up or throwing a specific code detecting a knock in the motor. So I said the motor will have to completely fail before a replacement would be approved they said yes (basically suggesting I somehow blow up the motor). This is wrong, a product under warranty from manufaturer and cannot be fixed without replacing the part should be covered. I do not know what my options are at this point, the milage warranty has run out and they will not do anything to fix it, just bandaids until it dies. the dealers would not put it in writing only verbally telling me.
Engine, Dec 26, 2025
Engine brocked the pistones brock stock engine and pay for new engine
Engine, Dec 16, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, a knocking sound coming from the engine compartment was heard, and the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact further stated that while driving at approximately 80 MPH, with the cruise control mode engaged, the vehicle started to stall and failed to exceed 30 MPH. The contact stated that the cruise control became inoperable, and the check engine warning was flashing. The vehicle was restarted; however, the vehicle continued to hesitate and failed to exceed 30 MPH while driving. The dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was referred to the NHTSA hotline for further assistance. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 70,000.
Engine, Dec 9, 2025
My 2016 Kia Optima is experiencing severe internal engine oil consumption that matches known issues Kia has recalled and extended warranties for. The vehicle loses 1–3 quarts of oil every few days with no external leaks. A repair shop found a P0304 cylinder 4 misfire, P0010 cam actuator code, and spark plug damage caused by oil entering the combustion chamber. They confirmed internal engine damage and abnormal oil consumption. The Kia dealership refused to assist due to mileage, even though this issue matches the engine defects covered under Kia’s litigation settlement and warranty extensions. The excessive oil consumption creates a dangerous safety risk, including engine stalling, loss of power, and potential engine seizure while driving. I am requesting NHTSA review because the vehicle’s condition is unsafe and part of a widespread engine defect.
Engine, Nov 30, 2025
The engine lost cylinder 3, piston came loose and broke the spark plug. This happened because the rod bearing came loose which has been a known issue with Kia. There’s already been a class action law suit, and recall with warranty. Now the Kia dealership in Lynchburg has refused to honor this warranty. Stating they can’t do the required rod bearing clearance test because the engine doesn’t have compression. The engine has no compression because the rod bearings came loose and shoved the piston into the head.
Engine and engine cooling, Nov 20, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle suddenly stalled. After restarting the vehicle, the vehicle operated normally. The contact stated that the failure had occurred on several occasions. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 100,000.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 19, 2025, fire
While driving, the vehicle suddenly developed a loud knocking noise from the engine. Within one block the vehicle began smoking heavily from under the hood. I pulled over, opened the hood, and flames were visible. This is a 2016 Kia Optima with the 2.4L Theta II engine. Approximately one year ago the original engine seized and was replaced by a Kia dealer under the Theta II engine recall (SC172/SC147) and class-action settlement. This is the second catastrophic failure of a Theta II engine in this vehicle. The replacement engine has now failed in the exact same manner as the thousands of other documented cases — rod bearing failure leading to knocking, overheating, and engine compartment fire. The dealership (Fowler Kia of Windsor, CO) inspected the vehicle and quoted over $6,000 in repairs (melted engine wiring harness, ECM connector, battery cables, airbox, intake boot, etc.) while claiming the fire was “unknown cause/not the engine,” despite the clear knocking immediately preceding the fire. Kia Consumer Affairs has an open case but has not yet resolved coverage. This is a known, ongoing safety defect covered under multiple NHTSA investigations (PE21004, EA22002) and Kia recalls. I no longer feel safe in this vehicle and am requesting immediate investigation and inclusion in any expanded recall or remedy.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Engine, Nov 17, 2025
Vehicle: 2016 Kia Optima LX Turbo – Approx. 114,155 miles** This complaint concerns ongoing systemic defects affecting the electrical, braking, and engine management systems of the referenced vehicle. Despite multiple documented repair attempts, the failures persist, creating continuous and significant safety hazards. The vehicle has experienced repeated electrical system malfunctions, including multiple battery failures (three replacements within one year), sustained low-voltage conditions, and intermittent lighting loss. Notably, the headlights and exterior lighting have shut off unexpectedly during extended highway operation. The brake control system is also compromised. The electronic emergency brake has engaged spontaneously while the vehicle was in motion, causing abrupt deceleration without driver input. Additionally, the vehicle exhibits continuous fuel vapor and engine performance defects. The purge valve has been replaced four times, yet the failure recurs. The vehicle frequently hesitates upon acceleration, exhibits delayed throttle response, and jerks during takeoff, creating hazardous conditions when merging into traffic or crossing intersections. Given the repeated nature of these defects and the lack of resolution through standard repairs, I believe the vehicle may contain inherent design or manufacturing defects affecting the electrical charging system, ECU, fuel vapor management components, and electronic braking controls. I request that NHTSA conduct an investigation into these safety-related defects.
Engine, Nov 11, 2025
My engine blew up and started smoking while driving
Engine, Nov 6, 2025
Car stop accelerating when I went to get my oil change the shop reported my engine eating up my oil found out kia have a recall on engine
Engine, Oct 3, 2025
Engine sludge and failure. Engine part failure p0010 began happening within 1 year of Kia engine replacement. It is available for inspection. This creates a problem with acceleration in the vehicle, putting my family's and my safety at risk. This problem has been confirmed by the dealer. The check engine light is one. This part failure and engine sludge (despite consistent maintenance) has caused engine failure again, just 3 years after replacement.
Power train, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 26, 2025
The car is burning oil rapidly causing potential issues with the transmission and engine. The oil burns and does not leak after a few hundred miles and has to be refilled continuously causing alot of money and potential issues with other components of the car. I notice jerking when accelerating and smoke if dont fill every 1 to 2 weeks.
Engine, Aug 24, 2025
Engine Is knocking that happened when I took my car 3 times to emission test and my car didn't pass after that I took it to my mechanic for the diagnostic and he told me you have to take it to kia dealer but I was shocked the way how they treated me and they completely refuse to replace my engine they came up with too many excuses and I have recall repair active I have right to fix my car but they didn't with bad attitude
Engine, Aug 22, 2025
Engine began jumping during driving and loss power. No dashboard illumination warning lights and the temperature gage showed normal operating temperature. Car was not accelerating properly. Had to maneuver carefully to prevent being ran over. Engine light illuminated showing misfire. Replaced ignition coil pack and spark plugs. Driving again, car stalled. No dashboard warning lights. No high temperature on gauge. Narrowly missed being hit by a semi as there was absolutely no warning and we were on an Interstate bypass ramp with nowhere to pull over!! Towed car to dealership for diagnosis. Results: engine blown, turbos gone, and the catalytic converter is holding oil. Dealer is stating this is not covered under the extended warranty from Kia as its not connector rod bearing issues and that the piston rings failed. However, they stated the turbos got "too hot" and they failed. The gauges have never shown that the car was running hot. I have a sworn statement from my mechanic stating this is absurd and a valiant attempt to not pay for what would be the second warranty replacement of my engine. The piston rings failed as a result of the connector rod bearing failure. The "too hot" temperature that damaged the turbos was likely caused by the same bearing issue. The heat from the bearings unseated the piston rings and allowed the engine to dump its oil causing the engine to fail. I highly recommend that you open an investigation into these issues. The car not accelerating and losing power at interstate speeds is a very serious and dangerous issue.
Engine and engine cooling, Aug 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving approximately 75 MPH and attempting to accelerate to overtake a semi-truck, the vehicle suddenly started losing automotive power and then stalled. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, who diagnosed that the engine had seized and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The contact indicated that prior to the failure, the check engine warning light illuminated and remained illuminated, and the engine experienced excessive oil consumption. The manufacturer was not yet notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 45,000. The VIN was not available.
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 18, 2025
I am filing this complaint to urgently bring attention to a serious safety and mechanical defect with my Kia vehicle's engine and fuel system. My engine is excessively consuming oil, to the point where it poses a significant risk of engine failure, which could result in a loss of power while driving and create a hazardous situation on the road. Details: I consistently have to add 5 quarts of oil approximately every month. During regular oil changes, there is barely any oil recovered from the engine, suggesting the oil is being consumed or burned internally. I took the vehicle to AutoZone for diagnostics, and they confirmed the engine is burning oil. They also mentioned it could be related to a rod or piston ring issue. There are no visible leaks under the vehicle, and the oil is not being expelled externally—it's being consumed by the engine. This issue is not normal wear and tear. It's a systemic engine defect that is causing rapid oil loss and is likely to lead to engine seizure or failure if not addressed. This level of oil consumption is not just expensive—it is dangerous. A sudden loss of engine power could cause an accident, especially at highway speeds. I am deeply concerned for my safety and the safety of others on the road. Urgency: I am requesting the NHTSA to investigate this issue and consider initiating a recall for affected Kia vehicles. I am not the only one facing this problem—online forums and consumer reports are filled with similar complaints from other Kia owners. This is a critical engine/fuel system safety defect that must be addressed immediately before someone is injured or worse due to engine failure while driving. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. I am available to provide service records, photos, and further documentation upon request. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Aug 13, 2025
The engine is starting to fail causing issues such as being able to accelerate. When driving on the freeway it caused a safety issue it began slowing down on the interstate. The vehicle has been inspected by mechanics. No warnings prior to problem. They appeared day before due for an oil change. The car also burns oil really fast sometimes causing car to smoke. I have a GDI turbo engine and have been told that the engine i have has been recalled a few times on different models cars.
Engine and engine cooling, Aug 11, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, there was a misfire coming from the engine, and the vehicle was shaking. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The vehicle was diagnosed with engine failure due to piston rings failure, causing coolant intrusion into the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the ignition coil, cylinder #1, and spark plugs were replaced. The dealer was contacted, but had not diagnosed or repaired the vehicle. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Engine, Aug 11, 2025
My 2016 Kia Optima EX (VIN [XXX] , 2.4L I4 DI) suffered sudden engine bearing failure and complete engine seizure after approximately three months of use. After inspection, the Kia Scottsdale dealership confirmed that my vehicle’s VIN was eligible under the engine replacement warranty and submitted a request for assistance.However, Kia America denied the request. This defect is identical in nature to the known dangerous defect covered under Kia Safety Recall SC147 (NHTSA 17V-224) and related recalls for earlier Optima model years, involving connecting rod bearing wear leading to engine seizure. In my case, the defect caused a total loss of motive power, posing a serious crash risk. Kia Motors America has refused to repair or replace the engine, claiming my vehicle is ineligible due to being purchased from an auto auction (Sierra Auction) and having multiple prior owners. This refusal ignores that the defect is a safety-related manufacturing flaw identical to those already acknowledged by Kia and subject to federal recalls. I request NHTSA investigate Kia’s refusal to extend the same safety remedies to my VIN and consider whether the scope of SC147 and related recalls should be expanded to include vehicles with the same defect pattern. Supporting documentation available upon request. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Air bags, Structure, Engine, Aug 4, 2025, crash
I have pictures
Engine, Jul 28, 2025
No FireNo Injuries0 Deaths0 I’m experiencing severe oil consumption and spark plug fouling, which are known problems with the GDI engine. This is affecting driveability and may indicate piston ring or valve seal failure. My engine code starts with G4KJ which falls under the current recall, but my vin does not show up. Why isn't my car eligible? I have called Kia and their response was to call my local dealership. Started noticing the issue on [XXX]. Called dealership at that time and they said my car doesn't qualify. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)