The Kia Optima is one of the few options in the compact sedan segment that promises to be as enticing in its performance as its design. It is opulently curated on the inside and gets equipped with the best set of driver-assistance and convenience features. While its cost of ownership is controlled, the 2019 Optima also proves to be a dependable option. It has 43 complaints and 1 recall listed to its name, which makes it a better performer than its predecessors. However, belonging to a lineage of a riddled past, it is hard to trust that the Optima might remain inch-perfect over the coming years. So, should you opt for the Korean sedan or go for other options like the Hyundai Elantra, the Ford Fusion, and the Toyota Corolla? Let’s find out.
2019 Kia Optima User Complaints and Problems
Safety Complaints
- Non-deployment of airbags: In the list of the 2019 Kia Optima problems, most buyers have reported the airbags functioning erratically. In around five distinct cases, complainants have reported that the airbags do not deploy in case of a crash. While no fatalities have been recorded, occupants in a couple of cases have been injured due to the malfunction.
Electric System Complaints
- Minor electrical niggles: Among the 2019 Kia Optima electrical problems, buyers have reported the mobile phone disconnecting randomly. This is followed by the infotainment screen losing its power, which results in the users being devoid of functionalities like the SiriusXM radio.
- Improper function of the FCA system: In the list of the Kia Optima issues, buyers have commonly reported the vehicle to display a failure message regarding its front sensor. As a result, the system fails to identify a vehicle in the vicinity and activate the emergency braking system. To deal with the issue, Kia has introduced a recall, referenced by NHTSA ID 19V539000.
Mechanical Complaints
- Vehicle’s failure to crank up: The 2019 Kia Optima starting problems have been reported by a handful of buyers. Complainants have noted the vehicle’s hesitation to power when it is turned on. While the failure is only momentary, several buyers of the 2018 iteration have also been plagued by a similar issue.
- Failure of the braking system: Another known mechanical complaint of the 2019 Kia Optima is concerned with the braking system of the sedan. Buyers have reported the brakes of the vehicle disengaging unexpectedly. As a result, despite the brake pedal being depressed, the vehicle fails to come to a halt.
Structural Complaints
- Explosion of the sunroof: In a single case, one buyer of the 2019 Kia Optima has reported the sunroof shattering, without any impact or incidence.
2019 Kia Optima Recalls
|
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1. |
19th July 2019 |
19V539000 |
Malfunctioning Collision-Avoidance System |
Due to an error in the software, the Front Collision Avoidance System (FCA), might not engage the braking system, despite detecting a stationary vehicle. |
Dealers will update the FCA software, free of cost. The recall began on 27th August 2019. |
Should you buy the 2019 Kia Optima?
The 2019 Kia Optima promises to be an improvement over the yesteryear iterations. Despite falling in a similar generation since 2016, the user grievances have reduced by almost 200 complaints since the debut model was introduced. However, it is still early to deem the sedan completely trustworthy. While its complaints are recurring and can have dire consequences, the 2019 Optima could warrant frequent visits to the dealership. So, if you are looking for a relatively hassle-free ownership experience, CarHP recommends looking out for options from brands like Hyundai and Toyota.
