The options in the midsize sedan segment might not be immensely popular and lucrative. Yet, vehicles like the Honda Accord, the Chevrolet Malibu, and the Mazda 6 promise stellar performances. Even the2017 Kia Optima falls in a similar ballpark and establishes its position as a dependable proposition. Despite having sold 107,943 units, its sales-grievances ratio remains rather impressive. In the current iteration, the Korean sedan has 87 complaints and 1 recall to its name, which does not seem worrisome. Most of the vehicle’s problems stem from its mechanical components and deal with excessive oil consumption and hesitant acceleration. Nonetheless, it promises a smooth ownership experience, which is free from any troubles.
2017 Kia Optima User Complaints and Problems
Safety Complaints
- Illumination of airbag indicator light: In a handful of cases, buyers of the 2017 Kia Optima have reported the airbag warning light illuminating randomly, indicating that passenger airbags are engaged. However, it qualifies as a safety issue since the light turns out even if there is no occupant in the passenger seat.
Electrical System Complaints
- Issues with the lighting system: Due to an error in the multi-function switch, buyers of the sedan have reported the vehicle’s headlights turning on and off randomly. This is most commonly noticed when the Auto mode is engaged and while there are only a handful of complaints on the NHTSA website, several buyers have raised a similar concern on unofficial forums. Among the other 2017 Kia Optima problems, some buyers have also received alert messages on their information cluster about the malfunctioning brake lights.
Structural Complaints
- Issues with trunk latch: In the list of 2017 Kia Optima issues, complainants have also reported that the trunk does not latch properly. While the reason for the problem is not yet known, one other user stated that their vehicle’s trunk remained latched for weeks, and randomly popped open while the vehicle was in motion.
- Shattering of sunroof: On the NHTSA website and some unofficial forums, buyers have reported the shattering of the vehicle’s sunroof. Without impact or incidence, the sunroof of the midsize sedan has exploded, causing the broken glass pieces to fly outwards. While no injuries have been reported by the owners, the sudden explosion of the glass pane can create a grave safety issue.
Mechanical Complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control: The 2017 Kia Optima acceleration problems are highly recurring. Several buyers have reported the vehicle’s hesitation to accelerate when moving from a stop. Complainants have noted that despite the pedal being depressed, there is a visible lag in response. As a result, the vehicle fails to pick speed and stutters excessively. In some other cases, users have also reported that the sedan decelerates quickly. In both situations, the failure of the knocking sensors has been majorly established as the underlying issue.
- Engine fire: The 2017 Kia Optima engine problems are not widespread or rampant. Yet they seem to be concerning. In a handful of cases, buyers have reported flames erupting from under the engine compartment, which has resulted in the vehicle catching fire. While no casualties or injuries have been reported, the situation could very well be otherwise.
- Excessive oil consumption: The problem of the 2017 Kia Optima oil consumption is a common one. Buyers have reported the vehicle consuming more oil than usual, which reduces the lubrication. As a result, it affects the performance and longevity of the components and can cause the seizure of the engine.
2017 Kia Optima Recalls
|
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1. |
19th Dec 2018 |
18V907000 |
Possible fuel leak |
Due to an error, the high-pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump may have been damaged, resulting in a fuel leak. |
Upon inspection, dealers will replace the fuel pipe, free of cost. |
Should you buy the 2017 Kia Optima?
The Kia Optima is fairly comprehensive and adequately versatile. It manages to compete against the stalwarts in the market with its ample customization options, ergonomic setup, and capacious build. Additionally, the sedan proves to be a reliable option that is relatively free of complaints. So, without a doubt, the 2017 iteration of the Korean sedan should rank highly on your priority list. However, if you want a better-performing alternative that can also save you additional money, the 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid can be a viable option.
