The Car Connection is published by. WEIRDED OUT I LOOK AT THE MANUAL IN THE GLOVE COMPARTMENT. The naturally aspirated 2.4-liter 185-hp four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission found in the Optimas LX and EX trims make up a workaday powertrain. Instead, it is riddled with engine troubles, powertrain malfunctions and the possibility of an accident. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. Please enter a valid email adress, Your phone Whats your phone number? See the jurisdictions in which our lawyers are licensed, admitted, or otherwise authorized to practice. ", "Paint on front bumper nicks and peels from bugs". "The heater never worked well. Gear selector or linkage, leaks, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission. I've never really pushed them to the point of fade so I can't say when that would become noticeable. Radiator, cooling fan, antifreeze leaks, water pump, thermostat, overheating. These charts provide the most comprehensive If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced. We think you might be able to get better returns in the real-world with a light foot. Thank you! Confidentiality Guarantee: We keep your information completely confidential and will not send you spam or sell your information. ", "Developed an annoying air leak/whistle around the driver's side front door while operating vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. Email is required to block spam, but will not be published. With Service Bulletin #VPI1802_DP, we see the company discussing ways to protect the engine from excessive rod bearing damage. The 2018 Kia Optima is evidence of the automakers move upmarket. Thank you for requesting your free case evaluation. (Read more about how we rate cars.). Why is it that some cars fly under the radar? On the road, the Optima is capable, polished, and stands up reasonably well to spirited driving. I then had/have a 2011 Optima, great new style with all the bells and whistlesalso very reliable and fun to drive. The trunk swallows 15.9 cubes of cargo, which is on-par for its class, and the rear seats fold down in a 60/40-split when more flexibility is necessary. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. 2022 MH Sub I, LLC. Brian Jones spent more than 20 years working as an ASE Certified Master Tech and Parts Specialist at multiple dealerships. Want Kia to buyback my vehicle and let me get away from this lease with reimbursement on payments because car no in my possession for 128 days and counting. They said it was a software glitch they were working on. "At 5 mph the car, when the brake was applied, would have a hard stop similar to the type of stop you would have in an emergency stopping incident. ", "A recall for a computer update on engine performance", "Earlier models would slow down engine. JUST IMAGINE IF I HAD MY CHILD IN THE CAR, ON THE INTERSTATE AND COULD NO LONGER CONTROL MY STEERING WHEEL OR THE CAR JUST DYING MID DRIVE ON THE INTERSTATE HOW DANGEROUS THIS ISSUE IS. The 2018 Kia Optima is a mid-size sedan and proof that the talent pool for value-packed four-doors isn't yet dry. It has been a flawless daily driver for 83000 miles with only routine oil changes at 5000 mile intervals. Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension. What could the owner possibly have done to the transmission within 4,000 miles that would cause the transmission to go bad and void the warranty? I HAVE READ MORE REVIEWS OF PEOPLE GOING THROUGH SIMILAR THINGS. Sound off and share your experience with other visitors in the comment box below. Click on other model year to view more problems. Some models will feature diamond-patterned seating thats normally reserved for a higher tax bracket, and we appreciate Kias efforts there. EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. Headlight indicator would flash on and headlights would turn off intermittently". Inside, the Optima pushes its dash further forward and into the corners, which improves outward visibility. Every competitor has adopted similar dimensions, which means that the Optima isnt as revolutionary as it once was. These cars are a great deal for Optima shoppers. If the VPD activates while the vehicle is being operated in Electric Vehicle (EV) mode, there may be a loss of power, increasing the risk of a crash. I agree to receive emails from The Car Connection. "Engine ran rough and shook. 1 or 2 weeks later car went into limp mode again with same problem. The Optima's rear seat is the least spacious among its closest competitors. The 2.0-liter turbo-4 found in SX models are the most fun to drive. Consumers hoping to find a quality mid-size car are often drawn to the style of the 2018 Kia Optima.
Its worth noting that all versions of the Optima are rated for regular unleaded, which can save pennies at the pump. Amazing how this small adjustment has improved the ride/drive experience in this car!".
The Optimas luxury-influenced details are a marked improvement over last-generation sedans, befitting Kias rise as a more premium brand. subscriber survey for over 300,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown We look forward to working with you to resolve your legal issues. NHTSA Campaign Number 18V161000 states that the VPD might enable during operation of EV mode, which might lead to a loss of power and increased chance of an accident.
Please enter a valid phone number. to get the information you were looking for! Up and down the range, the 2018 Kia Optima is powered by a bevy of inline-4 options, including some turbocharged options. On challenging pavement, it loses its composure a few ticks before standouts like the Honda Accord and the Toyota Camry. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Optima hybrid vehicles. It narrowly misses another for luxury-like appointmentsemphasis on narrowly there. THE CONTACT AND A PEDESTRIAN EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. The 2018 Kia Optima hasnt changed since it was new for 2016, and the roots for that car go back further to 2011 when it fundamentally shifted how we look at mid-size sedans. Its confines are roomy and well-appointed, and its fit and finish is punching above its weight class, even in base trims. Alternator, starter, hybrid battery and related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, distributor or rotor failure, spark plugs and wires failure. All models come with selectable drive modes that toggle the throttle response and transmission behavior among Eco, Normal, and Sport modes. More options are reserved for higher trim levels, which we wish Kia would reconsider. Its ability to haul cargo is as good as any sedan in its class, although the hybrid models sacrifice cargo space to their battery packs. Your author Whats your name? Mated to a 6-speed automatic, the 2.0-liter turbo-4 makes 245 hp and 260 lb-ft and comes on strong lower in the rev range (just 1,350 rpm). Click on other model year to view more problems: 2019 2021 2022. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle. Message or call 877-795-3666 today. All the electronics / audio have been trouble free and we thoroughly enjoy the massive sunroof. A relatively large number of powertrain options await Optima shoppers, not including Optima Hybrid models that we cover separately. Bluetooth), voice control commands, steering wheel controls, portable music device interface (e.g., iPod/MP3 player), backup or other camera/sensors. THE CV AXLE ASSEMBLIES SNAP LIKE THE 2016 MODELS DO KIAS RECALL NUMBER SC139. Acceleration off the line is brisk but things really take off once you are rolling and floor it. The base 2.4-liter inline-4 is found on Optima LX and the new S trim level, a 1.4-liter turbo-4 is optional on the LX trim, and a 2.0-liter turbo-4 is found on pricier SX trims. ", "SiriusXM intermittently stops working. The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey EX models are equipped similarly but add standard leather seats, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, available active safety features (which we cover separately) and a woodgrain trim thats a little more upmarket than the base dash. One nitpick: Wed probably delete the Turbo badges found on the front fender portholes near the rear doors on SX trims. NA indicates that we did not receive a large enough sample size to provide Kia has been offering buyers competent, stylish cars at prices that undercut rivals.
We like the inside look, particularly in top trim levels, such as the Optima SX. Still, the Optima is an attractive, capable car that will satisfy most most buyers looking for a mid-size sedan. Compare the 2018 Kia Optima against the competition. Weve found in our drives that the base 2.4-liter inline-4 is smooth and should be adequate for most buyers needs, provided that need isnt outright speed. The most popular engine will be the 2.4-liter inline-4 found in base models and the new S trim, which earns an EPA rating of 24 mpg city, 34 highway, 28 combined. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how used vehicles are holding up in 17 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, and brakes to power equipment and the electrical system. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPAs website and select Find & Compare Cars. Well done KIA! Base LX models dont feel particularly cheap either, which we can't say about some of the other mid-size competitors.
They reset the transmissions computer timing and all was again perfect.". Its performance and comfort are the only places for improvement, but its worth noting that the Optima is still above average in both respects. Your shadow will have a hard time keeping up with you. From the outside, the Kia Optima embodies the latest and greatest in mid-size moves over the last decade. We are Lemberg Law, a Consumer Law Firm. More efficient 1.6-liter models will get the best ratings of the lineup (without opting for the hybrid versions, which we cover separately) at 28/37/31 mpg. The manufacturer was not contacted. These vehicles are equipped with a Voltage Protection Device (VPD), designed to protect the high voltage battery module, that may activate inadvertently. Every year, auto manufacturers buy back, replace or pay cash settlements to thousands of lemon owners like you. I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. The transmission downshifts quickly and the boost comes on with virtually no lag. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 22,000. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. Power or manual windows, locks and latches, tailgate, hatch or trunk, doors or sliding doors, mirrors, seat controls, safety belts, sunroof, convertible top. No power. Reactivate now (Read more about how we rate cars.). Would I buy another? Weve found the Normal mode to be the goldilocks zone for most circumstances; Sport can be too hot, Eco can be too cold. Your email Whats your email address? The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which can result in engine damage. Although wed note that the top trim for the Kia Optima still hovers around $30,000, which is reasonable for the class and relatively good value. Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, loose or cracked seals and/or weather-stripping, air and water leaks. The law makes Kia pay legal fees.
Wed like that word to return to its 1985-pinnacle of popularity, but for now it seems a little gratuitous. They tried to repair my vehicle for 1 month after they told me that the engine need to be replaced they managed to change wiring harness. The 2018 Kia Optima earns a 7.2 on our overall scale, which reflects our high opinion of its safety and style. Add to that one set of "no-season" tires and one set of winter radials sourced from TireRack.com, with overall fuel economy better than 27 MpG. of 2018 Kia Optima owners. Thats good base equipment, especially the touchscreen, which helps it earn two points above average on our feature scale. It feels more responsive than the 2.4-liter inline-4, but weve found that its somewhat hamstrung by a indecisive 7-speed dual-clutch that clobbers through gears compared to similar units made by Volkswagen or Ford. Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, clutch replacement. AS I EASED INTO MY APARTMENT COMPLEX THE CAR DID THAT SAME JERK, THE STEERING WHEEL WENT HARD TO MANAGE/STEER AND 6 OTHER LIGHTS STARTED BLINKING( PARKING BREAK LIGHT, EPB LIGHT , ABS LIGHT,ESC LIGHT ,BATTERY CHARGE LIGHT, AND THE MASTER MALFUNCTION LIGHT) . If Kia wants this vehicle to stand out, it first needs to be able to be driven on the road. The vehicle was taken to [dealer] who stated that the sensors were working as designed. (Read more about how we rate cars.). Dealers will inspect the engine. Went on for 6 months with no resolve. I purchased my 2013 Kia Optima SXL exactly 5 years ago as am writing this. By Brian Jones | Updated on January 28th, 2020. We give it a 7 out of 10. Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbo or supercharger, timing chain or timing belt. on how 2000 through 2021 vehicles are holding up in 17 potential trouble spots, ranging from the BUT TODAY WHICH IS SUNDAY MY CAR?S EPS (ELECTRIC POWER STEERING) LIGHT FLASHED. (Guess they think because we're over 50, we're just CRAZY!!!). You will get digital access to reviews and ratings for over 8,500 products and services I thought maybe a Stinger but I don't want to have to buy into the turbo 6 to get all the juicy bits of kit with the chassis, brakes and LSD. Lets talk numbers. Finally got zone mgr. Another example of transmission trouble with this model is illustrated with Service Bulletin #TSBENG177. It's sometimes slow to react to inputs and a little coarse in its upper ranges. Automatic emergency braking is available now on more models, which was our only gripe from last year. There were no warning indicators illuminated. Most models will have power-adjustable front seats, which adapt to a wide-ranging set of body types. THE FIRE AND POLICE DEPARTMENTS WERE AT THE SCENE, BUT THE CONTACT WAS UNSURE IF REPORTS WERE FILED. (Read more about how we rate cars.). But that low price came at the expense of refinement. The Optima also adds a new S model, which wears sporty exterior bits and is available with a panoramic sunroof. Noise was miraculously gone after hinges adjusted!! I took car back. Every model is available with the latest active-safety and infotainment features. Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program.