2018 Kia Optima Hybrid: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2018 Kia Optima Hybrid: 2 recalls, 3 owner complaints and up to 42 mpg combined.
Recalls
2 vehicle recalls from the manufacturer. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
Engine Vehicle recall #21V844000 · 2021 · 10,731 vehicles
What's wrong: The connecting rod bearings inside the engine May wear prematurely, which can result in engine damage.
Why it matters: A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced. Dealers will also install a software update containing a knock sensor detection system (ksds). Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 29, 2021.
Latches & locks Vehicle recall #23V594000 · 2023 · 319,436 vehicles
What's wrong: 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. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "internal trunk release."
Why it matters: A person inside the trunk compartment May become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will replace the trunk latch base subassembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 19, 2023.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 0 mention a fire, 0 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Engine (3): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Electrical (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Fuel & propulsion (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Transmission & drivetrain (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
The 2018 Kia Optima Hybrid has 3 owner complaints, ranking #8 of 9 Optima Hybrid model years for complaints (well below the 31 average). Neighboring years: 2017 (26 complaints, 2 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0 L 4-cyl hybrid | Automatic (AM6) | Front-Wheel Drive | 39 | 46 | 42 | Regular |
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 2018 Kia Optima Hybrid.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
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FAQ
Does the 2018 Kia Optima Hybrid have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 2 vehicle recalls for the 2018 Kia Optima Hybrid. Recall repairs are free at any dealer, no matter how old the car is. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 2018 Kia Optima Hybrid problems?
Owners have filed 3 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are engine (3), electrical (1), fuel & propulsion (1).
What gas mileage does the 2018 Kia Optima Hybrid get?
EPA ratings run up to 42 mpg combined (2.0 L, Automatic (AM6)), across 1 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2018 Kia Optima Hybrid repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.