Overriding the flaws of its previous iteration, the Kia Optima has been redesigned from the ground up for 2011. With its impending overhaul, the Korean midsize sedan now stands as a family proposition with its capacious build, comprehensive feature list, and clever engine options, which ensure both performance and frugality. Though the ride quality might not be the best, Optima’s precise handling, impressive comfort, and new design do it ample favors. The warranty package is all-encompassing and even safety scores are of the highest order. However, at over 500 complaints and 4 recalls, the reliability is not inch-perfect. Most of the issues are mechanical in nature and deal with the engine and steering system. A 2011 Kia Optima for sale is available at $18,995 and in its segment, it competes with the likes of the Chevrolet Malibu, the Hyundai Sonata, and the Toyota Camry.
2011 Kia Optima User Complaints and Problems
Safety Complaints
- Problems with the airbag system: In the 2011 Kia Optima problems list, buyers of the midsize sedan have reported the airbags malfunctioning inadvertently. While some complainants have recorded the failure of the airbags to deploy in case of a crash, others have noticed the warning light illuminating randomly. This happens due to a failure of the steering coupler, which has been discussed in detail below.
Electric System Complaints
- Exterior lighting issues: Buyers of the 2011 Optima have reported the headlights of the sedan to be defective. In most cases, complainants have observed the low-beam headlights to lack illumination, which has a bearing on the frontward visibility. This happens due to the bulbs and wiring system burning out consistently and consequently, a replacement of the low-beam headlamps is the only solution. Additionally, in some other listed cases, the flickering of the headlights has also irked some owners.
- Other electrical concerns: Among other electrical issues, buyers have also reported the radio system losing power inadvertently. Additionally, the doors of the sedan have also been recorded locking and unlocking without any input, which can increase the risk of untoward incidents.
Mechanical Complaints
- Engine failure: The 2011 Kia Optima engine problems make up almost 50% of the registered complaints. In almost all listed instances, the engine has been reported failing, which is symptomized by the loss of power and illumination of the check engine warning light. This failure causes the vehicle to seize and requires the engine to be replaced. Considering the widespread impact of the issue, Kia has introduced a recall, referenced by NHTSA ID 17V224000.
- Damaged steering coupler: The 2011 Kia Optima steering coupler has been a troubling component. In several cases, buyers of the sedan have reported the vehicle losing its power steering and making a clicking noise when the wheel is turned. This happens due to a damaged coupler, which also affects the operations of the steering-mounted controls and airbags. A similar problem has been reported on several models of Hyundai.
- Other mechanical problems: The 2011 Kia Optima transmission problems are not highly recurring. Yet in some cases, buyers have reported the transmission hesitating while shifting between gears, which causes an abrupt performance. On the other hand, some other complainants have noted the brake pedal becoming mushy and failing to bring the vehicle to a halt when depressed. Such a malfunction can increase the risk of a crash.
Structural Complaints
- Peeling paint: The Kia Optima paint problems are most commonly noted in vehicles equipped with the Snow White Pearl option. In almost all cases registered on NHTSA and unofficial forums, buyers have found the paint peeling across the body, leaving exposed surfaces prone to rusting.
- Explosion of moonroof: Buyers of the 2011 Kia Optima have also reported the moonroof of the sedan exploding inadvertently. This causes the glass pane to shatter and fly outwards or into the cabin, which can increase the risk of an injury.
2011 Kia Optima Recalls
|
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1. |
19th Dec 2018 |
18V907000 |
Leakage from high-pressure fuel pipe |
Due to an error in the engine replacement process, the high-pressure fuel pipe may have been damaged, resulting in a fuel leak. |
Upon inspection, dealers will replace the fuel pipe if necessary, free of cost. |
|
2. |
1st June 2018 |
18V363000 |
Disabled airbags and seat belts |
The Airbag Control Unit (ACU) may short circuit preventing frontal airbags and seat belt pretensioners, free of cost. |
Dealers will install a wire extension harness kit, free of cost. |
|
3. |
31st Mar 2017 |
17V224000 |
Possible engine seizure |
Due to machining errors during the engine manufacturing process can cause premature bearing wear. |
Dealers will inspect the engine assembly and replace the engine if necessary, free of charge. |
|
4. |
1st Apr 2013 |
13V114000 |
Intermittent functioning of the stop lamp switch |
A failure of the stop lamp switch may cause malfunctioning of the brake lights and allow the vehicle to be shifted out of “Park” without applying the brakes. |
Dealers will replace the stop lamp switch when parts are available, free of cost. |
Should you buy the 2011 Kia Optima?
The 2011 Kia Optima returns to the market in an all-new avatar, based on a new platform. So, as has been true with many vehicles, the debut iteration is adequately riddled. Yet among its 510 complaints, the Korean midsize offering stands to impress. Though the problems with the engine and steering have considerable impact, Kia’s proactiveness to provide readily available solutions come in handy for the buyer. Additionally, most recalls also cater to brand-wide problems rather than being issues limited to the Optima only. So, by delivering a frugal, sophisticated, and opulent performance that does not forego reliability, Kia manages to regain its ascendancy in the market.
