2014 KIA Optima problems
Owners have filed 786 complaints about the 2014 KIA Optima with NHTSA. Engine accounts for 35.6% of them — far more than any other system, ahead of steering at 12%.
Complaints786
Crashes35
Fires63
Injuries37
Deaths3
What owners report breaking
Engine 35.6% · 280
Steering 12.0% · 94
Unknown or other 11.1% · 87
Electrical system 7.5% · 59
Structure 6.1% · 48
Fuel/propulsion system 5.2% · 41
Service brakes 3.2% · 25
Vehicle speed control 2.7% · 21
Severity
Of those complaints, 35 describe a crash, 63 describe a fire, 37 report an injury and 3 report a death.
Reading the numbers
Across the 19 model years of the KIA Optima in this data, 2014 sits 5th by complaint volume. 2013 draws the most.
Filings have fallen off, 173 in the last three years against 243 in the three before. The issues here may already have been addressed.
The median odometer reading at the time of complaint was 71,875 miles.
In owners' own words
Engine speed slowed. Engine knock noticed. Engine wouldn't remain running.Took it to mechanic. Checked NHTSA website for reals and TSBs. None found. He retrieved DTC P0014 Camshaft Position B - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1). He recommended replacing the Timing Chain, Tensioners, Guides AND the Camshaft Phasers. During this process, he discovered that the crank turned only with great difficulty. Engine
The dealer stated my engine repair is not covered under the recall/warranty because an ECU software update was not performed. I was quoted $8500 for engine replacement (Long block). I have owned this vehicle for 2 months, going on 3. I am requesting a review of whether this vehicle qualifies for any engine recall or safety-related warranty coverage, as the explanation provided by the dealership appears inconsistent. Engine
As I was driving the car it wont shift and sounds forced. The engine started making a rattle sound and I was very concerned! The car stopped in full speed and I was scared for me life and my sons. Had a car been behind us or in the intersection it could have been bad! It turned back on after putting the car in n and pressing the start button. But the car continues to sound and feel as though its being forced to run. Engine · reported at 89,000 miles
Verbatim from NHTSA filings. Complaints are unverified owner reports.
Safety recalls
Checking NHTSA for open recalls…