Kia as a brand has always focused on providing affordable yet reliable products and the Kia Optima Hybrid is one of the most affordable hybrid midsize sedans. The Optima line-up is a high-selling model for the brand but the hybrid variant, unfortunately, carries some concerning issues. The 100 registered complaints and 2 recalls might sound like nothing multiple users faced troubles with the engine. The 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid does pack in some reliable characteristics but underlying issues and troubles with the vehicle hardware affect the reputation the brand has built. With the growing popularity and demand for hybrids, Kia faces completion from cars like the Ford Fusion Hybrid, the Toyota Camry Hybrid, and its corporate cousin, the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.
User complaints and problems
Electrical Problems
- Battery – The contact was driving on the highway when the vehicle slowed down and stalled all of a sudden. Contact tried to start the car but failed to do so and decided to tow the vehicle to the mechanics. A diagnosis was conducted and it was found that the hybrid battery had failed and would need a replacement.
- AC – The users started that when engaging the AC after a long gap of not using it because of the winter, they would get to hear a loud noise from the motor. It was also noticed that the AC would stop working without any warnings and no matter if the vehicle was idling or moving at any speeds, the AC noise was said to get louder.
Mechanical Problems
- Engine – The Users noticed a loud noise coming from the engine and the car was said to stall abruptly post that and noticed black smoke coming from the engine bay. The vehicle had to be towed to the dealers where the technicians claimed the engine to have failed due to a connecting rod malfunction. Users had to replace the entire engine and this was said to be a rather common issue.
- Transmission – The car was said to hard shift the gears between 2-3 and 5-6. The same was noticed when downshifting and since the shifts were getting louder, the vehicle was bough to the dealers where it was confirmed that the transmission was faulty and that it would need to be replaced.
- Brakes – The users stated the brake pedal to feel dead at times with it going all the way to the floor when trying to stop the car. Users had to pump the pedal in order to engage the brakes and this was soon inspected by a mechanic who recommended getting the master cylinder replaced and doing so resolved the issue.
- Steering – The steering wheel was said to make a clunky noise and also had too many vibrations and play while driving. The dealers were able to find a broken steering wheel coupler and some research revealed that this is a common issue. It was said that the use of cheap plastic led to the part breaking at an early stage.
2012 Kia Optima Hybrid recalls
|
S. No. |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1. |
2nd December 2020 |
20V750000 |
Engine damage may cause a fire. |
The engine compartment was said to have the chance of catching fire while driving, increasing the risk of injury. |
The engine will be inspected for any fuel and the necessary repairs or replacements will be made. |
|
2. |
1st June 2018 |
18V363000 |
Airbag/Seatbelt pretensioners maybe disabled. |
The airbag control unit may short circuit, preventing the frontal airbags and seatbelt pretensioners from deploying. |
An extension wiring harness kit will be installed on the affected vehicles. |
Should you buy the 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid?
The 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid is a car with great potential and great reliability. The car however did not roll out of the assembly line without any issues and the major concern for the owner was the engine. Loud noises and sudden stalls with reporting of even fire breakouts caused the users to re-question themselves regarding the reliability but Kia made sure to track down the cause and offer a free repair or a complete replacement of the engine by announcing a recall. Since this issue pertained to a particular batch of vehicles, it didn’t take Kia a long time to resolve this issue completely. We would suggest getting the steering assembly inspected and making sure that the steering coupler is in good condition as they are prone to break. Overall, the 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid is a great choice if you’re looking for an affordable yet reliable hybrid sedan.
