2019 Kia Optima Problems

The contact owns a 2019 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds on two occasions, the vehicle lost power with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was driven over to the side of the road and then towed to the dealer twice; however, the failure was not duplicated on the first visit. During the second visit, the vehicle was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 146,000.

Oil is needing added on a weekly basis to keep up with how much the engine is burning, Spark Plugs and Coils have been changed excessively, the dealership says we may end up being covered by a recall but the engine needs to completely fail first.

Blind spot forward collision detection lane departure warning rear cross traffic warning

Unknown was just driving to go to my husband to work and it came on when I was coming back home and when I went to pick my husband up from work and was stopped at a stop sign the lights came back on

Drove roughly an hour from Roseville MI to Temperance MI. Car was fine. No issues on the drive. Gauges were all fine. Got to my friend’s house and took my stuff inside. Came back out immediately and saw dark smoke now coming from the hood. Attempted to open, but couldn't unlatch the hood after it was popped. Saw flames and called 911. Entire car burned down to the back seats. Car seat, Reading glasses and personal items destroyed. Fire fighters put it out and police took report. KIA after review states they dont know why it happened. Also has taken forever and not offered to compensate me in any way shape or form. Received their “findings” a day ago, April 30. Date of fire was Feb 11th 2026.

The engine of vehicle repeatedly failed, causing the vehicle to stall while driving, which posed a serious risk to my safety and others on the road. The vehicle had approximately 65,000 miles and was maintained routinely and on schedule. The failure first occurred before November 18, 2025, when I reported stalling issues to Kia authorized service & parts. The vehicle was returned as “fixed” on December 12, 2025, but the engine stalled again during normal operation. The vehicle was returned to Kia authorized service & parts multiple times (December 12, December 18, December 23, January 9, January 12, 2026, and March 4, 2026), with repeated assurances that it had been repaired. Each time, the car continued to stall, including during a test drive at Subaru, demonstrating that the failure persisted despite repeated dealer intervention. The stalling created a significant hazard, as the car could lose power while on public roads, including highways, potentially leading to accidents. There were no consistent warning lights or messages prior to the engine stalling; the first symptom was intermittent loss of power while driving. The failure has been reproduced and observed by multiple service personnel at Kia authorized service & parts and by Subaru during the trade-in test drive. The component(s) causing the failure were inspected by Kia authorized service & parts staff, but no effective repair was made. Documentation of repair orders and dealer inspections is available for review.

I just recently purchased my 2019 Kia optima sx turbo. After purchase, I immediately began experiencing issues with the braking system and the forward collision warning light coming on. The cruise control stopped working as well. I googled and saw that there was a recall on the forward collision warning system but the local Kia dealership to me says there is not one. I almost had a head on collision in this car with my granddaughter coming from daycare as I completely lost brakes. I have put so much money into purchasing this car believing it to be a good car.

Lights appeared on the dash and the vehicle locked and would not drive. This happened as I was actively driving. I had the vehicle towed and was told by the Kia dealership that it was my abs/hecu. Before this happened, there was no warning lamps or messages. The car was driving normally.

I am reporting a recurring safety hazard involving my 2019 Kia Optima following a repair for diagnostic code P064A (Fuel Pump Control Module). Despite the dealership attempting to repair the fuel system, the vehicle remains in a 'limp mode' state. While driving, the vehicle began shaking violently and lost significant power, refusing to accelerate above 50 mph. This creates an immediate safety risk, as the vehicle cannot maintain highway speeds or safely merge, increasing the danger of a rear-end collision. The P064A code and subsequent 'limp mode' symptoms persist even after professional service. I am concerned that the existing Kia warranty extensions (such as WTY028 for the low-pressure fuel pump) or current repair procedures are insufficient to resolve this underlying mechanical/electronic failure, leaving the vehicle unpredictable and hazardous to operate in traffic.

The engine of vehicle repeatedly failed, causing the vehicle to stall while driving, which posed a serious risk to my safety and others on the road. The vehicle had approximately 65,000 miles and was maintained routinely and on schedule. The failure first occurred before November 18, 2025, when I reported stalling issues to Kia authorized service & parts. The vehicle was returned as “fixed” on December 12, 2025, but the engine stalled again during normal operation. The vehicle was returned to Kia authorized service & parts multiple times (December 12, December 18, December 23, January 9, January 12, 2026, and March 4, 2026), with repeated assurances that it had been repaired. Each time, the car continued to stall, including during a test drive at Subaru, demonstrating that the failure persisted despite repeated dealer intervention. The stalling created a significant hazard, as the car could lose power while on public roads, including highways, potentially leading to accidents. There were no consistent warning lights or messages prior to the engine stalling; the first symptom was intermittent loss of power while driving. The failure has been reproduced and observed by multiple service personnel at Kia authorized service & parts and by Subaru during the trade-in test drive. The component(s) causing the failure were inspected by Kia authorized service & parts staff, but no effective repair was made. Documentation of repair orders and dealer inspections is available for review.

Strong smell of gasoline from the rear of the vehicle started around 60,000 miles . Car dealership said it’s normal but I don’t smell other cars like this

I am reporting a recurring safety hazard involving my 2019 Kia Optima following a repair for diagnostic code P064A (Fuel Pump Control Module). Despite the dealership attempting to repair the fuel system, the vehicle remains in a 'limp mode' state. While driving, the vehicle began shaking violently and lost significant power, refusing to accelerate above 50 mph. This creates an immediate safety risk, as the vehicle cannot maintain highway speeds or safely merge, increasing the danger of a rear-end collision. The P064A code and subsequent 'limp mode' symptoms persist even after professional service. I am concerned that the existing Kia warranty extensions (such as WTY028 for the low-pressure fuel pump) or current repair procedures are insufficient to resolve this underlying mechanical/electronic failure, leaving the vehicle unpredictable and hazardous to operate in traffic.

Engine burners oil at about 1qt per 1000 miles. There is no leak, and no repair to stop the oil from burning quickly. I have to refill my engine with oil several times in between oil changes. Paint is peeling in various spots on my hood and bumper. I first noticed a small area along the border of the hood nearest the windshield (mostly visible from the driers seat). Then 3 more spots on the opposite side of the hood and eventually all over the bumper.

Pearl white paint peeling prematurely

Car was affected by emergency theft system locked car down when moving and caused airbags to deploy in which fractured my spine vertebra causing spinal fusion

I brought my Kia Optima into the dealership in October 0f 2024, because my airbag light came on. It has not been there over 6 months because my passenger airbag module is not operable and rending all my airbags useless; it is also on backorder with no ETA. The dealership wouldn't help with my escalation it has taken me 6 months to get to the escalations department and now they will not offer additional support with payments or a buy back "due to warranty". I feel helpless and like my investment has been thrown in the trash and lit on fire as my car is sitting in the parking lot in the AZ sun, not being moved and not protected from the elements. They continue to offer no real resolutions and tell me to wait for a piece that has absolutely no ETA.

Dear National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, I am writing to bring to your attention a grave safety concern regarding my 2019 Kia Optima SX. Despite diligent maintenance and care, my vehicle has experienced persistent alignment issues, particularly on the right side. Additionally, I have encountered premature axle shaft and axle boot failures, all of which have occurred well before reaching 60,000 miles. These issues have not only posed a significant financial burden but have also jeopardized the safety of myself and other road users. The repeated alignment problems have resulted in the rapid deterioration of tires, leading to baldness within a month of replacement, creating a hazardous driving condition and increasing the risk of accidents. The premature failure of axle shafts and boots is unacceptable for a vehicle of this age and mileage. Such failures not only compromise the vehicle’s performance but also raise serious concerns about the overall quality and safety standards of the Kia Optima SX. I urge the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration to conduct a thorough investigation into these recurring issues affecting the 2019 Kia Optima SX model. Immediate action is necessary to ensure the safety of consumers and to hold Kia accountable for any design or manufacturing defects contributing to these alarming problems. Your swift attention to this matter is crucial in preventing potential accidents and ensuring the well-being of motorists nationwide.

MDPS component in steering column is making noise due to premature failure.

Dear National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, I am writing to bring to your attention a grave safety concern regarding my 2019 Kia Optima SX. Despite diligent maintenance and care, my vehicle has experienced persistent alignment issues, particularly on the right side. Additionally, I have encountered premature axle shaft and axle boot failures, all of which have occurred well before reaching 60,000 miles. These issues have not only posed a significant financial burden but have also jeopardized the safety of myself and other road users. The repeated alignment problems have resulted in the rapid deterioration of tires, leading to baldness within a month of replacement, creating a hazardous driving condition and increasing the risk of accidents. The premature failure of axle shafts and boots is unacceptable for a vehicle of this age and mileage. Such failures not only compromise the vehicle’s performance but also raise serious concerns about the overall quality and safety standards of the Kia Optima SX. I urge the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration to conduct a thorough investigation into these recurring issues affecting the 2019 Kia Optima SX model. Immediate action is necessary to ensure the safety of consumers and to hold Kia accountable for any design or manufacturing defects contributing to these alarming problems. Your swift attention to this matter is crucial in preventing potential accidents and ensuring the well-being of motorists nationwide.

Dear National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, I am writing to file a formal complaint regarding numerous premature defects in my 2019 Kia Optima, which have led to serious safety hazards and compromised driving conditions. Firstly, the premature valve cover gasket leaking has resulted in dangerous fumes infiltrating the cabin, posing a significant risk to my health and safety as well as that of any passengers. This issue has not only caused discomfort but also raised concerns about potential long-term health effects. Additionally, the premature turbo gasket leaking is a further cause for alarm. Not only does this compromise the vehicle's performance and efficiency, but it also presents a potential fire hazard, particularly if the leaking oil comes into contact with hot engine components. Furthermore, the premature defect of the axle shafts and axle boots is a critical safety issue. This compromises the vehicle's stability and handling, increasing the risk of accidents and potential loss of control while driving. Moreover, the premature engine knocking and abnormal shaking and lag are indicative of underlying mechanical issues that significantly impact the vehicle's drivability and safety. Engine knocking can be a precursor to more severe internal damage, while abnormal shaking and lag compromise the vehicle's responsiveness, especially in critical situations such as merging onto highways or overtaking. These issues collectively present a clear pattern of premature defects that pose significant safety risks to both myself and other road users. As such, I urge you to investigate these matters thoroughly and take appropriate action to ensure the safety and well-being of Kia Optima owners. I look forward to your prompt attention to this matter and a swift resolution to address these critical safety concerns.

PANORAMIC SUNROOF EXPLODED WHILE DRIVING 6/5/2020 WHILE IN MOTION IT HAS BEEN 110 DEGREES IN PHOENIX, AZ FOR THE PAST WEEK. *TR

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2019 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE FIXED PANE GLASS ABRUPTLY FRACTURED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN UNKNOWN DEALER, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 3,100. THE VIN WAS INVALID.*BF *AS

The contact owns a 2019 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while attempting to perform an oil change, the contact became aware that the hood latch was not operating as needed. The contact was unable to unlatch and raise the hood. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the hood latch release cable had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 70,000.

On my vehicle Kia, Optima, 2019 vehicle the latch on the hood broke for the second time. The first time took it to the Kia, place where I purchase the vehicle. Jim Shorkey in Irwin Pa. They could not open the hood. I needed oil in my car. I don't know where the oil is going! Took to my mechanic he had to go under the car to release the latch. This is the second time. I keep paying, this is not fair!!!!!! The warning light for oil!!!!

The low beam headlight assembly failed on my 2019 Kia Optima LX with no prior warning, while the high beams and LED daytime running lights continue to function normally, indicating an isolated component failure within the assembly. Notably, the headlight assembly shows no physical damage whatsoever, and both independent licensed repair facilities that inspected the vehicle were unable to identify or repair any specific failed component — both independently concluded that a full assembly replacement is necessary. The fact that no specific component could be identified as the cause, combined with the absence of any physical damage, suggests this may be an internal failure not consistent with typical wear and tear. Prior to complete failure, the low beam would intermittently illuminate and then cut off unexpectedly during normal operation, which was the only symptom present before the headlight stopped functioning entirely. This creates a genuine safety concern as low beams are the primary source of nighttime illumination and cannot be substituted with high beams in normal traffic conditions. The failure occurred suddenly during normal nighttime driving and could not be fixed with bulb or pigtail replacement as both were in good condition. The vehicle and component remain available for inspection upon request.

The AFLS forces the low beam headlights too low when passengers are in the back seat (see attachment for full details)

I just think theres some sort of a tech issue with my electronic dashboard. My passenger seatbelt sign goes on and beeps incessantly when there is no passenger in the seat. My caution alert button comes on saying I have low tire pressure when it’s only one number less than all the other tires. My oil change reminder never comes on. Today I was driving normally and the car in front of me barely tapped their breaks (and I was not close to them at all) and the collision alert started beeping. My car randomly gets cold and the AC smells like it’s on, but it’s not (the button isn't lit nor did I turn it on) It normally doesn’t allow me to turn the outside air button on/off. Like in the winter when it’s freezing outside and I wasn’t to press the button to only circulate the inside air in the car, it doesn’t allow me and I have to freeze and be uncomfortable in my own car.

Brakes don't feel right some times when I stop. My passage side seat belt dangs for no reason even when there nothing on my set. And ever once in a blue moon I can hear a dang dang noise idk where it's coming from but it's very soft sound.

The contact owns a 2019 Kia Optima equipped with Continental Tires, Tire Line: PureContact LS, Tire Size: P235/45/R18, DOT Number: CNFUWD4M2622. The contact stated that while his wife was driving approximately 60 MPH, the contact felt an abnormal vibration coming the front passenger’s side tire. The contact stated that his wife heard an abnormal "booming" sound and saw in the rearview mirror what appeared to be sections of tread on the highway. The contact was called by his wife and drove to the location and replaced the defective tire with the spare and drove the vehicle to the tire dealer. The dealer confirmed that the tread had separated from the side wall. The dealer replaced the tire under road hazard warranty on the tire. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that his wife was driving at approximately 35 MPH when she heard an abnormal "booming" sound from the passenger side rear tire. The contact stated that his wife pulled into a parking lot and called the contact. The contact stated that when the tread delaminated from the tire part of the rear passenger wheel well was cracked by the debris. The contact was able to replace the damaged tire with the spare and drove the vehicle back to the same tire dealer. The contact stated that the dealer advised that the tire manufacturer would be contacted because the dealer reported that other customers were having tread separation failures with the same tire line. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate vehicle failure mileage was 47,800 and the tire failure mileage was approximately 10,000.

Dear National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, I am writing to express my extreme dissatisfaction and concern regarding the Goodyear Assurance Weather Ready tires, size 235/45R18, installed on my 2019 Kia Optima SX. These tires have proven to be defective, failing to meet the standards of safety and durability promised by Goodyear. I would like Goodyear to refund for the defective tires! Despite being well within the mileage limit of the 60,000-mile warranty, Goodyear has refused to stand by their product. Instead, they have absurdly attempted to shift the blame onto me, suggesting that frequent alignments are necessary at every oil change. This is not only an inconvenience but also an unjustifiable expense for a supposedly high-quality product.I have diligently maintained my vehicle and have documentation to support the fact that the tires are defective. However, Goodyear has shown a complete disregard for customer satisfaction and safety by failing to address this issue adequately. I urge the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration to investigate this matter promptly and take appropriate action against Goodyear for their negligence and failure to uphold their warranty obligations. Plus to have the tires taken off the market as they put myself and my families lives at risk. Consumers deserve better than to be burdened with faulty products and dismissive customer service.

Dear National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, I am writing to bring to your attention a grave safety concern regarding my 2019 Kia Optima SX. Despite diligent maintenance and care, my vehicle has experienced persistent alignment issues, particularly on the right side. Additionally, I have encountered premature axle shaft and axle boot failures, all of which have occurred well before reaching 60,000 miles. These issues have not only posed a significant financial burden but have also jeopardized the safety of myself and other road users. The repeated alignment problems have resulted in the rapid deterioration of tires, leading to baldness within a month of replacement, creating a hazardous driving condition and increasing the risk of accidents. The premature failure of axle shafts and boots is unacceptable for a vehicle of this age and mileage. Such failures not only compromise the vehicle’s performance but also raise serious concerns about the overall quality and safety standards of the Kia Optima SX. I urge the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration to conduct a thorough investigation into these recurring issues affecting the 2019 Kia Optima SX model. Immediate action is necessary to ensure the safety of consumers and to hold Kia accountable for any design or manufacturing defects contributing to these alarming problems. Your swift attention to this matter is crucial in preventing potential accidents and ensuring the well-being of motorists nationwide.