2019 Kia Optima
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 208 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 10th highest complaint count among 20 Optima model years with reports.
Of the 2019 reports, 20 involved a crash and 6 involved a fire. 16 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency brakingJul 19, 2019
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.
Improper intervention of the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist can increase the risk of a crash.
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will update the FCA software, free of charge. The recall began August 27, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC179.
Campaign 19V539000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: electrical system
23 reports, newest first. Show all
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Sep 8, 2026
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 only a short distance before shuddering again and losing power. The engine was making a loud buzzing or scooter-like sound. The vehicle became undrivable and had to be parked. I am concerned about a potential safety defect involving sudden loss of power while driving.
Electrical system, Engine, May 1, 2026, fire
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 was popped. Saw flames and called 911. Entire car burned down to the back seats. Car seat, Reading glasses and personal items destroyed. Fire fighters put it out and police took report. KIA after review states they dont know why it happened. Also has taken forever and not offered to compensate me in any way shape or form. Received their “findings” a day ago, April 30. Date of fire was Feb 11th 2026.
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Mar 30, 2026
The engine of vehicle repeatedly failed, causing the vehicle to stall while driving, which posed a serious risk to my safety and others on the road. The vehicle had approximately 65,000 miles and was maintained routinely and on schedule. The failure first occurred before November 18, 2025, when I reported stalling issues to Kia authorized service & parts. The vehicle was returned as “fixed” on December 12, 2025, but the engine stalled again during normal operation. The vehicle was returned to Kia authorized service & parts multiple times (December 12, December 18, December 23, January 9, January 12, 2026, and March 4, 2026), with repeated assurances that it had been repaired. Each time, the car continued to stall, including during a test drive at Subaru, demonstrating that the failure persisted despite repeated dealer intervention. The stalling created a significant hazard, as the car could lose power while on public roads, including highways, potentially leading to accidents. There were no consistent warning lights or messages prior to the engine stalling; the first symptom was intermittent loss of power while driving. The failure has been reproduced and observed by multiple service personnel at Kia authorized service & parts and by Subaru during the trade-in test drive. The component(s) causing the failure were inspected by Kia authorized service & parts staff, but no effective repair was made. Documentation of repair orders and dealer inspections is available for review.
Electrical system, Sep 11, 2025
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2019 Kia Optima. The contact stated that it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 51,000. It was later discovered that the mileage was 82,000.
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 27, 2025
I was just driving then noticed lack of acceleration and the engine light flashing. Loosing acceleration mid driving posed a great safety risk because no other drivers would know the issue I was experiencing and risked causing an accident. The vehicle was taken for a fault code reading which indicated a knock sensor code, later it was inspected at the dealership who confirmed an ECU issue. The police or insurance have not inspected the vehicle for this particular issue.
Electrical system, Service brakes, Engine, Apr 17, 2025
Lights appeared on the dash and the vehicle locked and would not drive. This happened as I was actively driving. I had the vehicle towed and was told by the Kia dealership that it was my abs/hecu. Before this happened, there was no warning lamps or messages. The car was driving normally.
Electrical system, Engine, Forward collision avoidance, Mar 26, 2025
UNKNOWN. Vehicle is burning through oil every 1,000 miles or so. Excessive oil consumption which i am aware there is a recall. However Kia states my VIN # is not included. While at the dealer service department for failed A/C system, we questioned the excessive oil consumption and engine replacement. We were told they found nothing wrong. Having to top off oil every 1,000 miles or so. It does not make it to the next oil change before the light comes on. No oil leaks. Mechanic said known problem with this engine. Most recently the starter went bad, alternator, and battery. Replaced with a second brand new battery and car won't start again. Dash is lighting up erratically, new battery dead. As if something is drawing all power and draining brand new batteries. This car has a little over 86,000 miles and one thing after another is failing. The car lost power and power steering in a curve leaving us in a dangerous situation after replacing the starter. Dash lighting up erratically with front end collision warning message on the display. We had it towed to our residence which our auto insurance reimbursed us for. Replaced alternator and battery yesterday, and the car lost all power again turning back onto our street, again with the Dash lighting up erratically.
Electrical system, Service brakes, Forward collision avoidance, Feb 8, 2025
Sometimes when I drive it will say my forward collision is blocked so it will disable but it normally shuts off. Tonight I'm driving on the freeway a steering wheel pops up then blind spot abs traction and a few more lights come on then it say check headlights those are dimming the radio is cutting off. The wipers aren't working but the car is still accelerating then all of a sudden the car goes from 55 to 0 the wheel locks and I have to coat to the side of the road.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Engine, Feb 2, 2025
P1326 code. Check engine light flashing. Is in limp mode with limited power.
Electrical system, Feb 1, 2025
I was driving down the main street on my way home when my check engine light came on, and my car began shaking and sputtering, and I was unable to excel. I was barely able to make it home, less than 1/4 mile away. cars had to go around me in heavy traffic. taking it to the dealership Monday not the first time this has happened. I took it to a shop over the weekend and was told after diagnostic it was the ECU.
Electrical system, Engine, Oct 29, 2024
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH, the vehicle made an abnormal knocking sound and started vibrating and shuddering. The contact stated that the vehicle started to lose motive power and failed to respond upon depressing the accelerator pedal. The vehicle stalled and failed to restart. The contact stated that the check engine warning light illuminated while attempting to restart the vehicle. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle had previously experienced engine failures and electrical fuse failures. The contact stated that the 12-volt battery was previously replaced three times. The contact had taken the vehicle to two local dealers. The second dealer referred the contact to the manufacturer for assistance. The vehicle was not diagnosed and was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 18,000.
Electrical system, Back over prevention, Forward collision avoidance, Mar 18, 2024
My 2019 KIA optima with 116,021 odometer on mileage. Stop in the middle of High Volume Traffic , Because of Software Issues , I suspect . All Forward Collision Warning Detection , Also Rear Collision Warning Alerted on dashboard!!! Which Causes my Car to stop in the middle of Traffic Completely shut down. I was able to get my vehicle towed to KIA West Dealership Located in lithia Springs GA . I requested a diagnostic test and was informed by my service advisor and service manager that my vehicle has a burned out wire located in the left right rear sensors radar assembly, bumper area . Which will eventually have caused a fire or actually already did, I asked how did it happen? I was told it just simply burnt out. !!!! I was told the assembly box junction box needed to be replaced, which I agreed at that moment in order to diagnose the vehicle. Second the electrical problem was revealed, which is the big problem now currently for 1 , the vehicle is not safe for a midsize sedan on public roads and highways the if this make and model car causes random fires. secondly the parts very expensive and suspicious. I’m currently still doing my investigation. Unfortunately I had to agree for the sensors to be replaced and fixed because personal reasons I need my vehicle to get back-and-forth to work, etc.. I’ve been in contact consumer regional services, No one is able to find a recall with my Vin number the car never been in a accident ever. I have a picture of the hazardous burned out wire the technician showed me as well. As they claimed randomly caught fire.
Power train, Electrical system, Wheels, Feb 29, 2024
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.
Power train, Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Oct 19, 2023
System failed to pick up speed.
Electrical system, Engine, Oct 12, 2023, fire
I was driving on the highway and my car started smoking. I got off at the next exit and black smoke started billowing out from under the hood. As soon as I opened the car door flames started coming out from under the hood. Entire engine was on fire
Electrical system, Engine, Nov 11, 2022, fire
This car was equipped with the theta ll engine and I believe that’s what caused it because it was an electrical smoldering. The car has been signed over to the insurance company, it was totaled. If this had happened 30 minutes sooner, I would have been burned. Me and my daughter had luckily just got out of the car. No the problem has not been confirmed by a dealer. It has not been inspected by the manufacturer, but has been inspected by police and insurance. There was not any warning lamps or messages prior to the incident.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Jul 13, 2022
I have had my AC have 4 problems now and continue to have different problems since I bought the car a little over 6 mo ago. KIA is a pain and I'm constantly taking my vehicle in. The first time it wasn't major, the second time it was something electrical with the AC that tore apart my whole dashboard. Now I have a mold and mildew smell in my car and water leaking excessively under my car. My daughter who is 5 yrs old hasn't had ac for multiple weeks and now we are inhaling mold and mildew. I changed the cabin filter that was in the car and it had water stains all over it. This is a safety concern for the health of me and my child and I want things made right. My lawyer has been contacted and will proceed if nothing is done.
Electrical system, Seat belts, Service brakes, Sep 30, 2021
Brakes don't feel right some times when I stop. My passage side seat belt dangs for no reason even when there nothing on my set. And ever once in a blue moon I can hear a dang dang noise idk where it's coming from but it's very soft sound.
Electrical system, Engine, May 9, 2021
I'VE HAD THIS CAR GOING ON THREE YEARS SOMETIMES NOT ALL THE TIME I WILL GO TO START IT AND IT WILL BARELY START SO I TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP THREE TIMES WHEN I GOT MY OIL CHANGE AND THEY CHECKED THE BATTERY BUT THEY'RE SAYING THE BATTERY IS GOOD AND THE STARTING SYSTEM THE CAR WILL JUST BE SITTING IN MY GARAGE AND I TRY TO START IT IT JUST SOUNDS LIKE IT'S BARELY STARTING AND THEN THE NEXT TIME I STARTED IT'S FINE
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Apr 28, 2021
THE CARS USB PORT ALWAYS DISCONNECTS FROM THE CELL PHONE CORD. IT CUTS OFF MY SIRISXM AND MAPS. I HAVE TO RE-PLUG IN THE CELL CORD TO HAVE THE THINGS COME BACK ON. THIS HAPPENS WHILE THE CAR IS MOVING BOTH ON CITY AND HIGHWAY. WHEN I WAS AT A KIA DEALERSHIP THERE WAS SOMEONE ELSE THAT HAD THE SAME PROBLEM. THE CELL PHONE STORE SAID THEY RECEIVE COMPLAINTS ABOUT FROM THEIR OTHER CUSTOMERS. NOT SURE WHEN IT STARTED. IT SEEMS LIKE SINCE I BOUGHT IT. THERE ARE OVER 120,000 MILES ON MY CAR. OVER THE SMALLEST BUMP THIS CAN HAPPEN. IF I PUT MY CELL ON MY CAR WINDOW HOLDER IT HAPPENS LESS FREQUENTLY. I HAVE BOUGHT NEW CORDS AND A NEW CELL AND IT STILL HAPPENS.
Steering, Electrical system, Oct 7, 2020
PARKED. STARTED CAR & ALL DASH LIGHTS LIT UP. TRIED RESTARTING NO CHANGE. WHEN BACKING UP THERE WAS NO POWER STEERING. TURNED OFF IGNITION, PUMPED GAS PEDAL 3 TIMES, RESTARTED & IT SEEMED TO FIX PROBLEM. TOOK CAR IN FOR ELECTRICAL RECALL 1 WEEK LATER & WAS TOLD THIS MIGHT FIX THE PROBLEM. 2 WEEKS LATER IT OCCURRED AGAIN. SAME SOLUTION USED WITH SUCCESS.
Electrical system, Service brakes, Feb 22, 2020
WHEN MY PHONE IS PLUGGED INTO THE CHARGER, MY SCREEN WILL GO BLACK ALL OF A SUDDEN, AND I HAVE TO TURN THE CAR OFF AND UNPLUG MY PHONE AND TURN THE CAR BACK ON FOR THE SCREEN TO COME BACK ON. ALSO, THERE HAVE BEEN SEVERAL OCCASIONS WHERE MY BRAKES LOCK UP ON ME, AND I ALMOST HIT THE PERSON IN FRONT OF ME. ESPECIALLY IN THE RAIN, AND I HAVE EVEN HAD TO SWERVE OFF THE ROAD TO AVOID A COLLISION. IT HAPPENS WHEN I AM IN MOTION DRIVING AND GO TO STOP. THE RADIO SCREEN THOUGH HAS TURNED OFF ON ME WHETHER I AM DRIVING OR IN PARK.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Engine, Jun 27, 2019
I BOUGHT MY 2019 OPTIMA BRAND NEW BACK IN NOVEMBER. IT IS NOW JUNE AND I HAVE HAD IT BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP 3 TIMES FOR RANDOMLY NOT STARTING ON ME. I GET THE SAME ANSWER EVERY TIME. THEY DON'T KNOW WHAT IT IS, NOTHING COMES UP ON THE COMPUTER WHEN THEY PLUG IT IN. THEY SAY, "IF IT HAPPENS AGAIN, CALL US AND WELL TAKE IT IN". BUYING THIS CAR BRAND NEW AND MY PAYMENTS BEING THAT OF A RANGE ROVER, I AM EXTREMELY UPSET. TO TOP IT OFF, THE BACK WINDSHIELD IS SLIPPING DOWN. I AM OVER THIS CAR AND I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER KIA AGAIN. BUT, MY FIGHT IS NOT OVER, SOMETHING WILL HAVE TO BE DONE. IT ALSO HESITATES AT TIMES, FEELS AS THOUGH IT IS STRUGGLING TO GO. ALSO, TWO TIMES WHILE I WAS DRIVING THE CAR, THE DASH LIT UP WITH ALMOST EVERYTHING LIKE, I WAS IN A CRASH, THE EXCLAMATION POINT, ETC.