Kia Optima Years to Avoid
Every Optima model year ranked by owner complaints filed with NHTSA, with recalls and the top problem for each year.
Updated Oct 17, 2026.
Which Optima years should you avoid?
The 2013, 2015 and 2012 Optima have the most NHTSA complaints. Adjusted for how long each year has been on the road, the 2010, 2009 and 2008 models have the fewest problems.
Complaints by model year
Total complaints. Newer years have had less time on the road, so their totals will keep climbing.
Every year at a glance
| Year | Complaints | Per year | Recalls | Top problem |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 151 | 22 | 0 | Engine |
| 2019 | 212 | 27 | 1 | Engine |
| 2018 | 232 | 26 | 2 | Engine |
| 2017 | 256 | 26 | 3 | Engine |
| 2016 | 758 | 69 | 5 | Engine |
| 2015 | 1,009 | 84 | 4 | Engine |
| 2014 | 589 | 45 | 7 | Engine |
| 2013 | 1,386 | 99 | 9 | Engine |
| 2012 | 920 | 61 | 5 | Engine |
| 2011 | 594 | 37 | 5 | Engine |
| 2010 | 75 | 4 | 1 | Transmission |
| 2009 | 116 | 6 | 1 | Transmission |
| 2008 | 144 | 8 | 3 | Airbags |
"Per year" divides complaints by the years since that model year went on sale, so new and old years compare fairly. Highlighted rows have the most complaints.
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Common questions
What is the worst year for the Kia Optima?
The 2013 Optima, with 1,386 complaints. Its most reported problem area is the engine.
What is the best year for the Kia Optima?
Among years with at least three years of owner reports, the 2010 Optima has the fewest complaints per year on the road.
Which Kia Optima years should I avoid?
Be most careful with the 2013, 2015 and 2012 models. Check service records and recall work before buying.