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
208 reports, newest first.
Engine, Forward collision avoidance, Apr 5, 2024
The engine is consuming oil very fast and needing oil way before the next oil change. The oil consumption test Kia did stated that it was 2 quarts low after the first 1000 miles. Car does not have extended warranty but this a manufacturing defect. Suggestion was new motor. Also it's recall for the forward collision safety feature but my car vin is not included even though it goes off when nothing is in front of me. They want me to pay for these issues the motor cost the same as the payoff of car. This is ridiculous, I purchased Kia due to having a older model that almost got 300,000 miles on it before transmission died. I got a great payment and a newer car but didn't expect to have this motor issue or safety problem with no help from manufacturer. I'm stuck keeping oil in car so it's burn out & cutting safety feature off so it stops breaking when nothing is in front me. Both of these issues or manufacturing defects and should be fixed by KIA.
Engine, Apr 4, 2024
2019 Optima EX excessive oil consumption. Oil changed every 3000 miles, but is always empty within 1000miles. Car has 101,000 miles. Took to Kia dealership due to loss of power on acceleration and stalling and excessive oil consumption, they said I have multiple misfires on cylinder 1, excessive sludge buildup under cap and again no oil present. I was advised the engine needed replaced and that somehow this is a me problem and not a Kia problem. Spoke with Kia support and because it’s 1,000 miles over warranty they will not do anything even though they are aware of excessive oil consumption issue in these motors
Other or unspecified, Apr 3, 2024
I own a 2019 Kia Optima whose paint is peeling off rapidly. The paint began peeling in a tiny spot that I thought was a chip from a rock but has now grown to several spots peeling all over. I first noticed this in 2020 I visited my dealer on January 2024 to no avail. Not only was their technician rude, but he also said the paint was not covered under KIA’s bumper to bumper warranty. I have bought the extended bumper to bumper warranty at the dealer. I’ve owned several cars in my life and have never had this problem with any of them. I currently own a 2003 Toyota whose paint is in much better condition than my 2019 Kia. I believe this is a factory defect with this paint color and would like you to further investigate and help to restore my KIA so that the peeling stops. I’m attaching several photos for your review. The color is Snow White Pearl.
Engine, Mar 27, 2024
Engine is consuming extreme amounts of oil. I have never been late for an oil change, and often go before I’m even due. My car was stalling and the RPM was fluctuating. I had to pull over and turn the car off. I then noticed my oil light on for 2 seconds, then it turned off. I’m not due for an oil change for another 2,000 miles. I pulled in to a mechanic shop (thankfully I was right next door) and low and behold, hardly any oil in my car. Had maybe half a quart left. I should have been good for another 2,000 miles. This is not the first time this has happened either. I no longer feel comfortable driving myself or my kids in this vehicle. It has been nothing but constant worry about my engine dying, burning or stalling. This car only has 70,000 miles on it and only 4 1/2 years old!!!! This is the second incident of this car jerking and stalling on the highway. Thankfully I’ve been able to pull over to avoid being slammed. I had the oil topped off so the engine could function, but once again, I was not due for a change.
Engine, Mar 22, 2024
Was driving my vehicle when it started shaking violently and the check engine light came on. Took it to my mechanic and then it was towed to the Kia dealership. Both say that cylinder 2 won’t hold compression due to leaking valves causing oil to flood the engine and the engine to not work properly. I was told I could drive it still but that the engine could seize at any time putting us at risk for an accident. Kia says this is not covered under the extended warranty, but I have had multiple mechanics say this is an issue with 2017 and newer Kia’s and Hyundai’s,
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.
Fuel/propulsion system, Mar 18, 2024
Our 2019 Kia Optima has now stalled twice at a stop light in the past year. When it happens, we're able to restart the engine. In addition to stalling, the car struggles to start on some days and runs lumpy (minor surges in power) on other days. The symptoms match a problem Kia is aware of and for which it has provided an extended warranty (15 years/150,000 miles). Below is the wording from the extended warranty letter (2016-2020 MY Kia Optima Vehicles Low-Pressure Fuel Pump New Vehicle Limited Warranty Extension dated Sept 9, 2022): "If, at any time within the extended warranty period, you experience intermittent reduction in engine power, stalling while at idle, and/or inability or difficulty starting your engine, your authorized Kia dealership will diagnose the cause at no cost to you." When I took the car in after both incidents, the Kia dealer is not able to replicate the issue because it's an intermittent issue. There is no fault code thrown by the vehicle computer. The dealer and I have separately called Kia to get authorization to replace the low-pressure fuel pump (the most likely culprit), but Kia has denied the request because the dealer isn't able to replicate the issue. This is non-sensical given the fact that Kia in its letter admits that this problem is intermittent. I'm afraid that the next time the low-pressure fuel pump fails, it will be in a far more dangerous situation (e.g. highway) than at a stop light. I believe Kia should replace the low-pressure fuel pump for those owners who report the symptoms of a failing low-pressure fuel pump even if the failure can't be replicated at the dealer. Kia is basically saying they're not going to replace the low-pressure fuel pump until it malfunctions and stays broken which could very likely leave us stranded somewhere or worse without engine power in the middle of driving.
Other or unspecified, Mar 3, 2024
Clear coat paint is peeling rapidly on the driver side door. This is the only affected area and this car has never been in an accident, so it’s the original manufactured part. Car has 59K miles on it
Other or unspecified, Engine, Forward collision avoidance, Mar 2, 2024
I like kids however I purchased a Kia used in 2021, I started to notice that all consumption was going out fast before oil changes was due. I still have this ongoing problem but they say there's no recall on these GDI motors however other people I see informs or experiencing the same issues. I now have to try to get an appointment with Kia for an oil change before it's time for the oil change and to do a oil consumption test and then hopefully the main factors or kia will replace this motor even though there's no warranty on the car. I might also have a issue with the front collision feature because I have been noticing in the past few weeks that this feature comes on even when there's no car in front of me it will start to break however it says that my car is not a part of a software upgrade so I got to ask them about that as well. There is definitely a issue with the GDI motors and Kia really needs to recall them all and replace the motors it should not burn all the way that it does I've never had any car of any brand or manufacturer burn oil the way that this car is burning oil. I cannot financially afford to go out here and trade this car in and get another car with the type of payment that I have for this car since I had my bank finances car.
Steering, Suspension, Wheels, Feb 29, 2024
Dear National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, I am writing to bring to your attention a grave safety concern regarding my 2019 Kia Optima SX. Despite diligent maintenance and care, my vehicle has experienced persistent alignment issues, particularly on the right side. Additionally, I have encountered premature axle shaft and axle boot failures, all of which have occurred well before reaching 60,000 miles. These issues have not only posed a significant financial burden but have also jeopardized the safety of myself and other road users. The repeated alignment problems have resulted in the rapid deterioration of tires, leading to baldness within a month of replacement, creating a hazardous driving condition and increasing the risk of accidents. The premature failure of axle shafts and boots is unacceptable for a vehicle of this age and mileage. Such failures not only compromise the vehicle’s performance but also raise serious concerns about the overall quality and safety standards of the Kia Optima SX. I urge the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration to conduct a thorough investigation into these recurring issues affecting the 2019 Kia Optima SX model. Immediate action is necessary to ensure the safety of consumers and to hold Kia accountable for any design or manufacturing defects contributing to these alarming problems. Your swift attention to this matter is crucial in preventing potential accidents and ensuring the well-being of motorists nationwide.
Tires, Feb 29, 2024
Dear National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, I am writing to express my extreme dissatisfaction and concern regarding the Goodyear Assurance Weather Ready tires, size 235/45R18, installed on my 2019 Kia Optima SX. These tires have proven to be defective, failing to meet the standards of safety and durability promised by Goodyear. I would like Goodyear to refund for the defective tires! Despite being well within the mileage limit of the 60,000-mile warranty, Goodyear has refused to stand by their product. Instead, they have absurdly attempted to shift the blame onto me, suggesting that frequent alignments are necessary at every oil change. This is not only an inconvenience but also an unjustifiable expense for a supposedly high-quality product.I have diligently maintained my vehicle and have documentation to support the fact that the tires are defective. However, Goodyear has shown a complete disregard for customer satisfaction and safety by failing to address this issue adequately. I urge the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration to investigate this matter promptly and take appropriate action against Goodyear for their negligence and failure to uphold their warranty obligations. Plus to have the tires taken off the market as they put myself and my families lives at risk. Consumers deserve better than to be burdened with faulty products and dismissive customer service.
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.
Engine, Feb 26, 2024
No oil burning oil
Service brakes, Forward collision avoidance, Feb 24, 2024
I was doing 65 on the hwy when Forward collision started so sound off and slowing down car when there was no other car around me this happened on several occasions
Lane departure, Forward collision avoidance, Feb 20, 2024
On March 2022 Forward Collision Warning System, Blind Spot Warning System, ABS braking System and other systems associated with a bad passenger rear wheel sensor not working. On March 17, 2022 rear passenger wheel sensor repaired under warranty by local Kia Dealer. In September 2023 same issue with the above warning systems occurs with only another 2,000 miles on car after previous repair. Local Kia dealer states both rear wheel sensors need to be replaced. Kia dealer states vehicle is no longer under warranty and will cost in excess of $800 to repair. After checking similar complaints online, I believe there is an inherit defect with this type of vehicle's wheel sensors and a recall is needed to enforce Kia to stand by their product and ensure the safety of the vehicle and their customers.
Other or unspecified, Feb 7, 2024
Vehicle safety immobilizer is not present as a result vehicle cannot be insured in the state of ct
Service brakes, Forward collision avoidance, Feb 4, 2024, crash
I was driving and tried to brake but my car did not stop and ended up hitting guardrail. A couple weeks later I was driving and there was nothing in front of me but the car abruptly stopped in the middle of road
Engine, Jan 30, 2024
The car has been getting progressively rougher while driving and jerking when trying to accelerate. I checked the oil and it was nearly empty. There has been no sign of an oil leak even though I park in the same spot every single day.
Engine, Jan 29, 2024
My car is burning oil when i drive & my oil is not lasting in my car , i have to get a oil change done every 2 weeks im not sure what’s going on and im being told that there is no recall on my engine but i have others telling me that the GDI engines have recalls on them
Steering, Dec 29, 2023
MDPS component in steering column is making noise due to premature failure.
Engine, Nov 27, 2023
Vehicle engine light on and oil burns out fast, car jerks and delay on starting
Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 22, 2023
The morning of 9/26/2023 as I was driving on the freeway road and I experienced an intermittent reduction in engine power and had to pull over on the side of the freeway road. This was a very traumatizing experience and I was very lucky that I was not hit while awaiting to be towed. After my mechanic inspected my vehicle we received error code P1233 and advised me to call the dealership as this is something covered under an extended warranty. I scheduled an appointment for 9/27/2023 however, I dropped my car off on 9/26/2023 since I was able to arrange dropping it off a day earlier. I received a call very early on 9/27/2023 from Chuck, one of the mechanics at Westside Kia and he stated that my car was working perfectly fine. After I informed him of the issue I had he stated they would need to keep my car for about 48 hours until they could determine the issue. I received a call from Chuck on 9/28/2023 and he stated that the issue with my car was not covered under the extended warranty and that I would have to pay $1,200.00 to get the issue fixed. He agreed that the issue was in relation to the low pressure fuel pump and should be fixed at no cost however, he stated the only way this could be fixed is if they received approval from Kia Consumer Affairs. On 9/27/2023 I opened case number [XXX] and after a month they denied my case stating that they will not fix my car free of charge because the fuel pump needs to be replaced and the recall only takes care of replacing the filter and not the pump itself. I have argued with the dealership and Kia Consumer Affairs that if the fuel pump goes bad due to a bad filter that has been recalled then it is their responsibility to cover the cost. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Forward collision avoidance, Nov 20, 2023
The second month after I purchased this vehicle the master warning light and forward collision light popped up and car vehicle started de-accelerating in the middle of the freeway and I had to pull over and then the car died. Repeatedly took my vehicle to the Kia dealership and no one still has been able to help me. They claim no one at their corp. Office in California what that means so it has been going off ever since and I don't want my vehicle to died again. PLEASE HELP!!!
Engine, Nov 2, 2023
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Optima. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing abnormal oil consumption. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where an oil consumption test was performed, but the diagnostic test was inconclusive. The contact stated that the failure persisted, and the contact had been adding 3 quarts of oil every two weeks. The contact stated that the low oil pressure warning light illuminated, and the vehicle made an abnormal ticking sound coming from the engine. The dealer informed the contact that the manufacturer might not cover the repair unless the engine seized. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufactured was notified of the failure and a case was opened; however, no further assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.
Power train, Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Oct 19, 2023
System failed to pick up speed.