Alternator/generator/regulator problems of the 2004 Kia Motor Optima

Two problems related to alternator/generator/regulator have been reported for the 2004 Kia Motor Optima. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2004 Kia Motor Optima based on all problems reported for the 2004 Optima.

1 Alternator/generator/regulator problem

Failure Date: 02/01/2015

First my passenger side door would not unlock (cannot get the door open at all) - my passengers have to crawl in through the window to sit in passenger seat and my 78 year old grandma can't do that so she has to sit in the back. Now 7 months later, my driver side door will not unlock with the key and when I got off the exit last night doing about 20 or 25 miles an hour, my entire car failed (lcheck engine, brake, oil, etc. Lights all came on and then my car died - total system failure). Towed the car to get checked - nothing wrong with alternator or battery per mechanic. He said kia knows they have this electrical issue and faulty locks but the cheapskates won't conduct a recall like responsible auto companies do, so he tells all his clients to never buy a kia. For me, this is a serious safety issue. I saved my money to buy my first car and I have obviously made a poor choice. What needs to be done to force kia to recall this serious safety issue? if my car goes on fire from their faulty electrical system, how do I get out of the car to save my life? where do I take my car to get repaired since I can't afford to buy a more reliable car? does anyone know how to fix this issue? I can't keep going back, so I want it fixed once and fixed right.

2 Alternator/generator/regulator problem

Failure Date: 07/18/2005

While driving on the road at 75 mph vehicle stalled. The engine shut down. Also, electrical system shut down. Vehicle was pulled over to the curve. Then owner called dealership who was suppose to pick up vehicle up but didn't show up for about 4. 5 hours. The vehicle was towed to a garage, and was left at the shop. The next day owner called to check on the vehicle, nothing was done . The mechanic said it was the alternator. Currently, the owner was waiting for the alternator. Owner's family suffered heat exhaustion by waiting outside, and his son became ill due to heat exhaustion. The owner has not contacted kia.




Safety Ratings of Optima Cars
Fuel Economy of Optima Vehicles
Optima Defect Investigations