Should you buy a USED Kia Optima? What goes WRONG?

Summary

The Kia Optima is a stylish, well-equipped car that offers great value for money, yet its 2.4L petrol engine is known for catastrophic failures, casting a shadow on its reputation. While it stands out for its attractive design, comfortable interior, and local driving dynamics, the car faces common issues like poor infotainment and road noise, especially in older models. Despite the risk of engine problems, the Optima delivers a premium-feeling driving experience that competes with rivals like the Toyota Camry and Mazda 6, though its long-term reliability is a major concern for potential buyers.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Kia Optima still looks great even 10 years after its release, offering a stylish and modern design.
• 😀 The Optima is more enjoyable to drive than competitors like the Toyota Camry and Mazda 6, especially after a 2013 update.
• 😀 Despite its potential, the Kia Optima doesn’t sell as much as expected due to some reported issues, including catastrophic engine failures.
• 😀 There are some minor exterior issues, such as parking sensors randomly going off and the rearview camera freezing.
• 😀 The design of the Optima was led by Peter Schreyer, who also worked on models like the Audi A4 and Volkswagen Golf.
• 😀 The interior of the Optima features a driver-oriented design, comfortable seating (especially post-2013 updates), and good ergonomics.
• 😀 Some issues with the interior include a poor infotainment system and small screen size, but they can be upgraded easily with aftermarket options.
• 😀 The Optima includes standard equipment like dual-zone climate control, a cooled glove box, and power-operated features that are often optional in European rivals.
• 😀 While some interior materials may wear out over time, the cabin holds up well, especially in fabric versions used for ridesharing.
• 😀 The car offers impressive rear seat comfort and ample space, with a surprisingly large boot that surpasses the Toyota Camry in capacity.
• 😀 Mechanical issues with the 2.4L petrol engine, particularly in earlier models, include excessive oil consumption, timing chain issues, and potential catastrophic failures. However, well-maintained cars can be reliable.

Q & A

What makes the Kia Optima stand out in terms of design?

The Kia Optima is praised for its attractive styling, which has remained appealing even 10 years after its release. The car's design is credited to Peter Schreyer, who previously worked at Volkswagen and Audi. His design team is responsible for Kia’s image change, giving the Optima a modern, stylish look compared to its predecessors.

What are some common complaints about the pre-2013 Kia Optima's interior?

The main complaint regarding the pre-2013 Kia Optima’s interior is the uncomfortable front seats, with many owners reporting numbness on long trips. Some also experienced issues like feet getting pins and needles after extended driving. However, the post-2013 models addressed these concerns with upgraded, more supportive seats.

How does the infotainment system in the Kia Optima perform?

The infotainment system, especially on models with sat-nav, is criticized for poor Bluetooth connectivity and limited functionality. The screen size is small, and it lacks modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the system can be easily upgraded with aftermarket units that look factory-fitted.

What improvements were made to the Kia Optima after the 2013 update?

The 2013 update of the Kia Optima brought several improvements, including better seats for improved comfort, better NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) levels for a quieter ride, and the addition of safety features like blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The update also improved the driving dynamics and overall interior quality.

What are the major mechanical issues reported with the Kia Optima?

The main mechanical issues reported with the Kia Optima revolve around its 2.4L petrol engine, which is part of the Theta 2 family. This engine is known for catastrophic failures, such as premature bearing wear or manufacturing defects, which can lead to a complete engine failure. Owners have also reported issues with oil consumption, timing chain problems, and valve body complications in the automatic transmission.

How reliable is the Kia Optima’s automatic transmission?

The Kia Optima’s automatic transmission is considered hit or miss. Some owners report issues with the valve body and solenoids, and the transmission is not designed to be serviced, making repairs difficult and costly. If the transmission fails, replacement can be expensive, and parts may be hard to obtain.

What makes the Kia Optima enjoyable to drive despite its potential mechanical issues?

The Kia Optima is praised for its driving experience, offering a refined ride quality and enjoyable handling. The car feels more premium than it actually is, with great steering feel and a smooth ride. The suspension was tuned specifically for local conditions in Australia, and the car performs well in both freeway and town driving.

How does the Kia Optima compare to its competitors like the Toyota Camry and Mazda 6?

While the Kia Optima offers a more enjoyable driving experience than rivals like the Toyota Camry and Mazda 6, it faces concerns about potential engine failures. The Toyota Camry is known for reliability but is considered boring to drive, while the Mazda 6 is praised for its driving dynamics and reliability. Ultimately, the decision depends on whether buyers prioritize reliability or the driving experience.

What is the general reliability of high-mileage Kia Optima models?

High-mileage Kia Optima models that have been well-maintained and have had the engine replaced are more likely to be reliable. However, models with high mileage and no history of engine replacement may still face issues, especially with the engine and transmission. Despite these risks, some high-mileage Optimas continue to run well, particularly those that have been properly serviced.

What alternatives to the Kia Optima are recommended in the script?

The script suggests considering alternatives like the Toyota Camry, Mazda 6, Honda Accord, and Hyundai Sonata, as well as premium options from brands like BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz. However, the Kia Optima’s competitors like the Honda Accord and Mazda 6 are recommended for their reliability, while European alternatives are less recommended due to higher maintenance costs.