MotorDeets

Kia Optima Hybrid problems, recalls & best years

The deets on every Optima Hybrid from 2011 to 2020: 275 owner complaints and 12 recalls across 9 model years.

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2012 (109), 2013 (55), 2011 (34). Best fuel economy: 42 mpg combined (2020).

Kia Optima Hybrid
Photo: SsmIntrigue · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons. Representative photo of this generation; trim may differ.

Problem areas across all years

Engine147
Electrical72
Transmission & drivetrain32
Other / unknown27
Steering20
Brakes (hydraulic)19
Brakes18
Speed control / throttle17

Year by year

YearRecallsComplaintsBest mpg
201133436
2012310936
201325537
201403137
201501237
20160437
201722642
20182342
20200142

Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.

Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the Kia Optima Hybrid.

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Mitchell 1 DIY Online access, factory-level data

Pro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.

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ALLDATAdiy Online access, factory OEM info

OEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.

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Haynes Print book or AllAccess online

Step-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.

Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/mo
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FAQ

What is the worst year for the Kia Optima Hybrid?

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2012 (109), 2013 (55), 2011 (34).

How many recalls has the Kia Optima Hybrid had?

Across 2011–2020, NHTSA lists 12 vehicle recall campaigns by model year (a campaign that covers several years counts once per year).