Kia Optima Recalls

The Kia Optima has been recalled 22 times across the 2001–2004, 2006–2019 model years. The most recent recall, from September 25, 2023, covers the control unit/module. Recall repairs are free at any authorized Kia dealer.

22recalls
3do not drive / park outside
18model years affected

What gets recalled

  • Air bags
    523%
  • Fuel & propulsion system
    418%
  • Brakes
    314%
  • Engine & cooling
    29%
  • Transmission & drivetrain
    29%
  • Driver assistance
    15%
  • Locks & latches
    15%
  • Body & structure
    15%
  • Lights
    15%
  • Suspension
    15%
  • Electrical system
    15%

2019 Kia Optima recalls (1)

Forward collision avoidance › Automatic emergency braking

NHTSA recall 19V-539 · Jul 19, 2019 · 11,423 vehicles

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.

Remedy: 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.

2018 Kia Optima recalls (2)

Latches/locks/linkages › Trunk lid › Latch

NHTSA recall 23V-594 · Aug 24, 2023 · 319,436 vehicles

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.

Remedy: 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.

Hybrid propulsion system

NHTSA recall 18V-161 · Mar 8, 2018 · 1,710 vehicles

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.

2017 Kia Optima recalls (3)

Latches/locks/linkages › Trunk lid › Latch

NHTSA recall 23V-594 · Aug 24, 2023 · 319,436 vehicles

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.

Remedy: 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.

Engine

NHTSA recall 18V-907 · Dec 19, 2018 · 71,653 vehicles

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.

Remedy: 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.

Hybrid propulsion system

NHTSA recall 18V-161 · Mar 8, 2018 · 1,710 vehicles

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.

2016 Kia Optima recalls (5)

Latches/locks/linkages › Trunk lid › Latch

NHTSA recall 23V-594 · Aug 24, 2023 · 319,436 vehicles

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.

Remedy: 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.

Engine

NHTSA recall 18V-907 · Dec 19, 2018 · 71,653 vehicles

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.

Remedy: 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.

Air bags › Frontal › Driver side › Inflator module

NHTSA recall 17V-007 · Jan 6, 2017 · 1 vehicles

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.

Remedy: 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.

Power train › Axle assembly › Axle shaft

NHTSA recall 16V-705 · Oct 3, 2016 · 12,214 vehicles

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.

Remedy: 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.

Show 1 more recall

Air bags › Frontal

NHTSA recall 16V-231 · Apr 21, 2016 · 17 vehicles

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…

Remedy: 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.

2015 Kia Optima recalls (4)

Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip › Control unit/module

NHTSA recall 23V-652 · Sep 25, 2023 · 1,730,192 vehiclesPark outside

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles.

Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge.

Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip › Control unit/module

NHTSA recall 21V-331 · May 10, 2021 · 440,370 vehiclesPark outside

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles previously recalled under recall 20V-519. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.

Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from other vehicles and structures until the recall repair is completed. Dealers will install a new multi-fuse, and inspect the HECU for leaks, replacing the HECU if…

Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip › Control unit/module

NHTSA recall 20V-519 · Aug 27, 2020 · 440,370 vehiclesPark outside

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.

Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the HECU for leaking brake fluid and replace the HECU if necessary, free of charge.

Engine

NHTSA recall 18V-907 · Dec 19, 2018 · 71,653 vehicles

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.

Remedy: 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.

2014 Kia Optima recalls (7)

Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip › Control unit/module

NHTSA recall 23V-652 · Sep 25, 2023 · 1,730,192 vehiclesPark outside

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles.

Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge.

Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings

NHTSA recall 22V-093 · Feb 17, 2022 · 72,848 vehicles

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.

Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip › Control unit/module

NHTSA recall 21V-331 · May 10, 2021 · 440,370 vehiclesPark outside

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles previously recalled under recall 20V-519. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.

Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from other vehicles and structures until the recall repair is completed. Dealers will install a new multi-fuse, and inspect the HECU for leaks, replacing the HECU if…

Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip › Control unit/module

NHTSA recall 20V-519 · Aug 27, 2020 · 440,370 vehiclesPark outside

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.

Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the HECU for leaking brake fluid and replace the HECU if necessary, free of charge.

Show 3 more recalls

Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings

NHTSA recall 20V-100 · Feb 21, 2020 · 141,774 vehicles

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.

Engine

NHTSA recall 18V-907 · Dec 19, 2018 · 71,653 vehicles

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.

Remedy: 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.

Engine and engine cooling › Engine

NHTSA recall 17V-224 · Mar 31, 2017 · 618,160 vehicles

Kia Motor Company (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Optima, 2012-2014 Sorento and 2011-2013 Sportage vehicles. Machining errors during the engine manufacturing process may cause premature bearing wear within the engine.

Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine assembly, and replace the engine if necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 20, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542.

2013 Kia Optima recalls (9)

Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip › Control unit/module

NHTSA recall 23V-652 · Sep 25, 2023 · 1,730,192 vehiclesPark outside

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles.

Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge.

Structure › Body › Roof and pillars

NHTSA recall 22V-560 · Aug 1, 2022 · 257,998 vehicles

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2013 Optima vehicles. The right and left headliner plates may not be secured properly, which can result in the plates detaching in the event of a side curtain air bag deployment.

Remedy: Dealers will secure the headliner plates, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 26, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC245.

Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings

NHTSA recall 22V-093 · Feb 17, 2022 · 72,848 vehicles

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.

Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip › Control unit/module

NHTSA recall 21V-331 · May 10, 2021 · 440,370 vehiclesPark outside

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles previously recalled under recall 20V-519. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.

Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from other vehicles and structures until the recall repair is completed. Dealers will install a new multi-fuse, and inspect the HECU for leaks, replacing the HECU if…

Show 5 more recalls

Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip › Control unit/module

NHTSA recall 20V-519 · Aug 27, 2020 · 440,370 vehiclesPark outside

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.

Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the HECU for leaking brake fluid and replace the HECU if necessary, free of charge.

Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings

NHTSA recall 20V-100 · Feb 21, 2020 · 141,774 vehicles

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.

Engine

NHTSA recall 18V-907 · Dec 19, 2018 · 71,653 vehicles

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.

Remedy: 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.

Air bags › Air bag/restraint control module

NHTSA recall 18V-363 · Jun 1, 2018 · 507,587 vehicles

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Kia Forte, Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Kia Optima and 2011-2012 Kia Optima Hybrid and Sedona vehicles. In the event of a crash, the air bag control unit (ACU) may short circuit, preventing the frontal air bags and seat belt pretensioners from deploying.

Remedy: Kia will notify owners. For model year 2011 Sedona vehicles, Kia will instruct dealers to verify the ACU part number and, if necessary, install an extension wire harness kit between the ACU Connector and the Vehicle…

Engine and engine cooling › Engine

NHTSA recall 17V-224 · Mar 31, 2017 · 618,160 vehicles

Kia Motor Company (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Optima, 2012-2014 Sorento and 2011-2013 Sportage vehicles. Machining errors during the engine manufacturing process may cause premature bearing wear within the engine.

Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine assembly, and replace the engine if necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 20, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542.

2012 Kia Optima recalls (5)

Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip › Control unit/module

NHTSA recall 23V-652 · Sep 25, 2023 · 1,730,192 vehiclesPark outside

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles.

Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge.

Structure › Body › Roof and pillars

NHTSA recall 22V-560 · Aug 1, 2022 · 257,998 vehicles

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2013 Optima vehicles. The right and left headliner plates may not be secured properly, which can result in the plates detaching in the event of a side curtain air bag deployment.

Remedy: Dealers will secure the headliner plates, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 26, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC245.

Engine

NHTSA recall 18V-907 · Dec 19, 2018 · 71,653 vehicles

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.

Remedy: 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.

Air bags › Air bag/restraint control module

NHTSA recall 18V-363 · Jun 1, 2018 · 507,587 vehicles

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Kia Forte, Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Kia Optima and 2011-2012 Kia Optima Hybrid and Sedona vehicles. In the event of a crash, the air bag control unit (ACU) may short circuit, preventing the frontal air bags and seat belt pretensioners from deploying.

Remedy: Kia will notify owners. For model year 2011 Sedona vehicles, Kia will instruct dealers to verify the ACU part number and, if necessary, install an extension wire harness kit between the ACU Connector and the Vehicle…

Show 1 more recall

Engine and engine cooling › Engine

NHTSA recall 17V-224 · Mar 31, 2017 · 618,160 vehicles

Kia Motor Company (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Optima, 2012-2014 Sorento and 2011-2013 Sportage vehicles. Machining errors during the engine manufacturing process may cause premature bearing wear within the engine.

Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine assembly, and replace the engine if necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 20, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542.

2011 Kia Optima recalls (5)

Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip › Control unit/module

NHTSA recall 23V-652 · Sep 25, 2023 · 1,730,192 vehiclesPark outside

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles.

Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge.

Engine

NHTSA recall 18V-907 · Dec 19, 2018 · 71,653 vehicles

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.

Remedy: 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.

Air bags › Air bag/restraint control module

NHTSA recall 18V-363 · Jun 1, 2018 · 507,587 vehicles

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Kia Forte, Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Kia Optima and 2011-2012 Kia Optima Hybrid and Sedona vehicles. In the event of a crash, the air bag control unit (ACU) may short circuit, preventing the frontal air bags and seat belt pretensioners from deploying.

Remedy: Kia will notify owners. For model year 2011 Sedona vehicles, Kia will instruct dealers to verify the ACU part number and, if necessary, install an extension wire harness kit between the ACU Connector and the Vehicle…

Engine and engine cooling › Engine

NHTSA recall 17V-224 · Mar 31, 2017 · 618,160 vehicles

Kia Motor Company (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Optima, 2012-2014 Sorento and 2011-2013 Sportage vehicles. Machining errors during the engine manufacturing process may cause premature bearing wear within the engine.

Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine assembly, and replace the engine if necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 20, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542.

Show 1 more recall

Exterior lighting › Brake lights › Switch

NHTSA recall 13V-114 · Apr 1, 2013 · 980,377 vehicles

Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and Sportage, model year 2010-2011 Soul, model year 2008-2011 Optima, model year 2010 Forte, model year 2007-2009 Amanti, and model year 2009 Borrego vehicles.

Remedy: Kia will send an interim notification to owners in May 2013. When parts are available, owners will receive a second notification and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge.

2010 Kia Optima recalls (1)

Exterior lighting › Brake lights › Switch

NHTSA recall 13V-114 · Apr 1, 2013 · 980,377 vehicles

Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and Sportage, model year 2010-2011 Soul, model year 2008-2011 Optima, model year 2010 Forte, model year 2007-2009 Amanti, and model year 2009 Borrego vehicles.

Remedy: Kia will send an interim notification to owners in May 2013. When parts are available, owners will receive a second notification and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge.

2009 Kia Optima recalls (1)

Exterior lighting › Brake lights › Switch

NHTSA recall 13V-114 · Apr 1, 2013 · 980,377 vehicles

Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and Sportage, model year 2010-2011 Soul, model year 2008-2011 Optima, model year 2010 Forte, model year 2007-2009 Amanti, and model year 2009 Borrego vehicles.

Remedy: Kia will send an interim notification to owners in May 2013. When parts are available, owners will receive a second notification and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge.

2008 Kia Optima recalls (3)

Exterior lighting › Brake lights › Switch

NHTSA recall 13V-114 · Apr 1, 2013 · 980,377 vehicles

Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and Sportage, model year 2010-2011 Soul, model year 2008-2011 Optima, model year 2010 Forte, model year 2007-2009 Amanti, and model year 2009 Borrego vehicles.

Remedy: Kia will send an interim notification to owners in May 2013. When parts are available, owners will receive a second notification and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge.

Air bags › Frontal

NHTSA recall 12V-014 · Jan 17, 2012 · 145,755 vehicles

Kia motors America, inc. (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2006-2008 Kia optima vehicles manufactured from September 29, 2005, through January 29, 2008, and model year 2007 and 2008 Kia rondo vehicles manufactured from September 13, 2006, through March 21, 2008.

Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the vehicle's air bag clock spring contact assembly, free of charge. The safety recall began on July 11, 2012.

Power train › Automatic transmission › Lever and linkage › Column shift

NHTSA recall 11V-153 · Mar 9, 2011 · 70,115 vehicles

Kia is recalling certain model year 2006-2008 optima vehicles manufactured from September 29, 2005, through June 13, 2007. There is a possibility that the shift cable May have been installed incorrectly, causing tension in the cable.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the shift cable and reinstall if necessary free of charge. The safety recall began on March 23, 2011. Owner May contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542.

2007 Kia Optima recalls (2)

Air bags › Frontal

NHTSA recall 12V-014 · Jan 17, 2012 · 145,755 vehicles

Kia motors America, inc. (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2006-2008 Kia optima vehicles manufactured from September 29, 2005, through January 29, 2008, and model year 2007 and 2008 Kia rondo vehicles manufactured from September 13, 2006, through March 21, 2008.

Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the vehicle's air bag clock spring contact assembly, free of charge. The safety recall began on July 11, 2012.

Power train › Automatic transmission › Lever and linkage › Column shift

NHTSA recall 11V-153 · Mar 9, 2011 · 70,115 vehicles

Kia is recalling certain model year 2006-2008 optima vehicles manufactured from September 29, 2005, through June 13, 2007. There is a possibility that the shift cable May have been installed incorrectly, causing tension in the cable.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the shift cable and reinstall if necessary free of charge. The safety recall began on March 23, 2011. Owner May contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542.

2006 Kia Optima recalls (2)

Air bags › Frontal

NHTSA recall 12V-014 · Jan 17, 2012 · 145,755 vehicles

Kia motors America, inc. (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2006-2008 Kia optima vehicles manufactured from September 29, 2005, through January 29, 2008, and model year 2007 and 2008 Kia rondo vehicles manufactured from September 13, 2006, through March 21, 2008.

Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the vehicle's air bag clock spring contact assembly, free of charge. The safety recall began on July 11, 2012.

Power train › Automatic transmission › Lever and linkage › Column shift

NHTSA recall 11V-153 · Mar 9, 2011 · 70,115 vehicles

Kia is recalling certain model year 2006-2008 optima vehicles manufactured from September 29, 2005, through June 13, 2007. There is a possibility that the shift cable May have been installed incorrectly, causing tension in the cable.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the shift cable and reinstall if necessary free of charge. The safety recall began on March 23, 2011. Owner May contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542.

2004 Kia Optima recalls (1)

Suspension › Front

NHTSA recall 09V-183 · May 27, 2009 · 36,538 vehicles

Kia motors corporation (kmc) is recalling 36,538 model year 2001-2004 optima vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in the states of connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island,…

Remedy: Kmc will notify owners and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. The safety recall began on June 15, 2009. Owners May contact Kia's consumer assistance center at 1-800-333-4542.

2003 Kia Optima recalls (2)

Suspension › Front

NHTSA recall 09V-183 · May 27, 2009 · 36,538 vehicles

Kia motors corporation (kmc) is recalling 36,538 model year 2001-2004 optima vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in the states of connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island,…

Remedy: Kmc will notify owners and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. The safety recall began on June 15, 2009. Owners May contact Kia's consumer assistance center at 1-800-333-4542.

Fuel system, gasoline › Storage › Tank assembly

NHTSA recall 04V-180 · Apr 12, 2004 · 25,803 vehicles

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.

2002 Kia Optima recalls (3)

Suspension › Front

NHTSA recall 09V-183 · May 27, 2009 · 36,538 vehicles

Kia motors corporation (kmc) is recalling 36,538 model year 2001-2004 optima vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in the states of connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island,…

Remedy: Kmc will notify owners and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. The safety recall began on June 15, 2009. Owners May contact Kia's consumer assistance center at 1-800-333-4542.

Fuel system, gasoline › Storage › Tank assembly

NHTSA recall 04V-180 · Apr 12, 2004 · 25,803 vehicles

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.

Electrical system › Starter assembly

NHTSA recall 03V-067 · Mar 4, 2003 · 11,501 vehicles

On certain passenger vehicles equipped with 2.5 and 2.7 liter v6 engines, the crankshaft position sensor (ckp) cases did not meet dimensional specifications.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the ckp. Owner notification began March 28, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time…

2001 Kia Optima recalls (3)

Suspension › Front

NHTSA recall 09V-183 · May 27, 2009 · 36,538 vehicles

Kia motors corporation (kmc) is recalling 36,538 model year 2001-2004 optima vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in the states of connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island,…

Remedy: Kmc will notify owners and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. The safety recall began on June 15, 2009. Owners May contact Kia's consumer assistance center at 1-800-333-4542.

Electrical system › Starter assembly

NHTSA recall 03V-067 · Mar 4, 2003 · 11,501 vehicles

On certain passenger vehicles equipped with 2.5 and 2.7 liter v6 engines, the crankshaft position sensor (ckp) cases did not meet dimensional specifications.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the ckp. Owner notification began March 28, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time…

Air bags › Side/window

NHTSA recall 01V-156 · May 1, 2001 · 16,231 vehicles

Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. The side air bag wire harness for the driver position could be mis-routed, which could result in it being pinched or cut by the seat cushion tilt mechanism.

Remedy: Dealers will check for proper routing of the side air bag wire harness and secure it in place with a plastic tie-wrap. If the wire harness is damaged, it will be replaced.

Frequently asked questions

How many recalls does the Kia Optima have?

NHTSA lists 22 recalls for the Kia Optima across 18 model years, 3 of them with a do-not-drive or park-outside warning.

How do I know if my Kia Optima has an open recall?

Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN decoder & recall check or on nhtsa.gov/recalls. Dealers fix recalls for free, even if you are not the original owner.

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.