Fuel System complaints by model year
| Year | Complaints | Share of year's complaints | Typical mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 13 | 9% | 145,000 miles |
| 2019 | 18 | 8% | 96,000 miles |
| 2018 | 13 | 6% | 68,000 miles |
| 2017 | 23 | 9% | 81,000 miles |
| 2016 | 63 | 8% | 75,000 miles |
| 2015 | 56 | 6% | 108,000 miles |
| 2014 | 49 | 8% | 85,000 miles |
| 2013 | 124 | 9% | 89,000 miles |
| 2012 | 54 | 6% | 80,000 miles |
| 2011 | 27 | 5% | 90,000 miles |
| 2010 | 1 | 1% | 118,000 miles |
| 2009 | 1 | 1% | 140,000 miles |
| 2008 | 5 | 3% | 48,000 miles |
| 2007 | 3 | 2% | 146,000 miles |
| 2006 | 9 | 6% | 58,000 miles |
| 2005 | 10 | 7% | 73,000 miles |
| 2004 | 10 | 4% | 76,000 miles |
| 2003 | 12 | 9% | 82,000 miles |
| 2002 | 6 | 6% | 86,000 miles |
| 2001 | 3 | 2% | 87,000 miles |
Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (fuel pump, injectors, fuel tank, hybrid and EV propulsion).
Mileage when the problem started
What owners report
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle intermittently stalled and lost automotive power, with an abnormal odor entering the cabin through the air vents. The vehicle was restarted and returned to normal operation; however, the failure reoccurred. The "Service In" message flashed on and off on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the low-pressure fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 145,000.
I am filing this complaint due to severe and ongoing safety defects in my 2020 Kia Optima EX, which has repeatedly stalled while driving, creating a life-threatening road hazard. Since September 2024, my vehicle has suffered from major failures, including a complete transmission replacement, multiple high-pressure fuel pump replacements, multiple oil flushes due to fuel contamination, and all fuel injectors replaced. Despite all of these "repairs" performed by a Kia-authorized dealership, the check engine light continues to return, and the vehicle still stalls unexpectedly, making it dangerous to drive. On March 10, 2025, after Kia claimed to have tested the vehicle for 200 miles, I picked up the car from the dealership, only for it to stall and trigger the check engine light within hours before I even reached my destination. …
After routine maintenance replacing the valve cover gasket, the low pressure GDI fuel line developed a leak in an area away from where the maintenance had occurred. After a 10 minute drive, the car developed a fire in the engine compartment. Upon investigation by an independent auto mechanic, it was determined that the fuel line had become brittle and developed a crack that had sprayed fuel into the hot surfaces of the engine compartment. This appears similar to the scenario affecting earlier Kia Optima models with the 2.0L Turbo engines. The heat from the fire caused the brakes to start to fail and the amber check engine light to come on within about 5 seconds before smoke was observed coming from the engine compartment. Fortunately, the fire occurred as the vehicle was pulling into the owner's driveway and a fire extinguisher was nearby and used to put out the fire. …
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Optima. The contact stated that there was an abnormally strong fuel odor coming from the vehicle. The contact stated the fuel odor was stronger on the rear driver's side, where the gas tank was located. The used car dealer from whom the vehicle was purchased was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent or dealer. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 95,658.
On August 26, 2025, I brought my 2018 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid to an authorized dealer for recall SC218 (engine inspection and KSDS software update). The dealer verbally stated both SC218 and SC278 recalls were completed, and the repair order (RO #[redacted]) lists them as performed. In September 2025, Kia America emailed me showing recall SC218 still open, and a warranty coverage report dated September 26, 2025, again listed SC218 as unclosed. On November 4, 2025, NHTSA's official VIN lookup confirmed the recall remains "Incomplete." On October 21, 2025, Kia America emailed me under Case #[redacted] stating that SC218 was "confirmed completed" and that the dealer performed a software update to the ECU, referencing RO #[redacted]. However, NHTSA's database still lists recall SC218 as incomplete. …
I am submitting this complaint regarding ongoing and persistent mechanical issues with my vehicle since the time of purchase. The vehicle has repeatedly shut off unexpectedly, creating a serious safety concern. Initially, I suspected the issue might be related to the battery, and I have replaced the battery twice within the past 4 years. However, the problem has continued. In January, the vehicle began shaking and shutting down again. I took it to a mechanic, who diagnosed the issue as faulty spark plugs and an ignition coil. The diagnostic codes provided were P0303 and P0456, and the recommended repairs were completed. Approximately one month later, the vehicle began shutting off again. I then took it to the dealership, where I was advised that the valve cover gasket needed to be replaced, along with the belts, and that a fuel system cleaning was required. …
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated that the low battery warning light was illuminated, and the message stating an electrical failure was occurring was displayed on the infotainment center. The battery was tested and found to be non-defective. The vehicle was taken to AutoZone, where a mechanic diagnosed and determined that the alternator had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact found information of NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V161000 (Hybrid Propulsion System) and linked the recall to the failure. The dealer was contacted and informed of the failure. The dealer confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated while stationary at a traffic light, while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to continue driving to her residence. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic and was informed that the engine knock sensor needed to be replaced. The contact called the local dealer and made them aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V907000 (Fuel System, Gasoline, Engine) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 68,000.
Related recalls (4)
Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
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.
Remedy: 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.
Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
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.
Remedy: 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.
Hybrid propulsion system
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Optima hybrid vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with a Voltage Protection Device (VPD), designed to protect the high voltage battery module, that may activate inadvertently.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will remove the VPD switch and install two newly designed Battery Management Systems (BMS) that contain Overvoltage Protection Devices (OPDs), free of charge.
Fuel system, gasoline › Storage › Tank assembly
Some passenger vehicles May contain a fuel tank assembly valve that May not close properly. If a vehicle with a fuel tank assembly valve that is not properly closed were to roll over, fuel spillage May occur.
Remedy: Dealers will install an additional fuel tank assembly valve. Owner notification began June 25, 2004. Owners should contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542.
Frequently asked questions
Which Kia Optima years have fuel system problems?
By NHTSA complaints, the 2013 (124), 2016 (63), 2015 (56), 2012 (54) and 2014 (49) model years. Fuel System complaints make up 9% of all complaints for the 2013.
Is there a recall for Kia Optima fuel system problems?
Yes — 4 recalls, including 22V-093 (hoses, lines/piping, and fittings, Feb 17, 2022); 20V-100 (hoses, lines/piping, and fittings, Feb 21, 2020); 18V-161 (hybrid propulsion system, Mar 8, 2018). Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers; check a specific car with the VIN recall check.
At what mileage do Kia Optima fuel system problems start?
Across all years, half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 86,000 miles; 16% happened before 50,000 miles.
What part fails most often?
Owners most often name the delivery › fuel pump (7 mentions), followed by the storage › tank assembly (4).
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.