general problems of the 2016 Kia Motor Optima - part 2

I purchased a vehicle from banter auto here in wichita, kansas. I reviewed the carfax beforehand and nothing stood out that scared me so I signed off and purchased the vehicle. I have had nothing but problems since buying which was 7 months ago and have spent $9000 on repairs. I’ve been told by several mechanics the last 5 times I’ve been in and out of mechanic shops it’s evident my car sat in deep water for a long period of time. I finally took it to an electrical auto specialist here in town and while he said it is evident my vehicle sat deep water for a period of time and while the corrosion hasn’t quite started to cause an electrical problem that it very well could down the road. I’ve given the man who owns the dealership and opportunity to make this right however he stopped responding. I believe that is illegal and I’ve been told it should’ve been a “flood title”. I will know for sure after seeing a I will know for sure after seeing an attorney this week. That was not disclosed to me or I would definitely would have not purchased the car. When I first got the car, the locks and windows were going insane flickering all over the place and kia dealership told me it was quite crazy and nothing they had seen before, however, they were able to fix it. I strongly believe that when my car was flooded it caused something to happen that I’m only going to have to keep paying for overtime. I’m already in debt from the $9000 I’ve had to getting personal loans. This is causing me enormous emotional distress. Please help.

This vehicle is eligible for theta ii class action settlement, and I cannot seem to get the kia dealerships, or the kia corporate to honor the engine failure issue that I was told by the aaa mechanic should have been replaced. I have also been told by others, including another mechanic at a nationally recognized mechanic that it needs to be taken care of, and that they had the same vehicle and had there's taken care of without any issues.

I’m experiencing severe oil consumption and spark plug fouling, which are known problems with the gdi engine. This is affecting driveability and may indicate piston ring or valve seal failure.

Engine issue, it’s knocking loud and misfires. Engine light flashing and car went into limp mode , will not go over 60 mph . I have changed the spark plugs, knock sensor, and had an oil change nothing has fixed my issue.

My 2016 kia Optima experienced a sudden catastrophic engine failure in July 2025. The failure is consistent with widely reported theta ii engine rod bearing defects that cause engine seizure and stalling. The vehicle did not receive the knock sensor detection system (ksds) update prior to my ownership, and I was never notified of this critical safety-related update. The engine failure occurred without warning and could have resulted in loss of power while driving, creating a serious safety risk. This vehicle model year has a documented history of engine defects and class action settlements related to premature engine failure. I believe this represents an ongoing safety defect. I am requesting that NHTSA review this failure as part of its investigation into kia Optima engine defects.

The vehicle went into limp power mode while driving.

The car is burning oil rapidly causing potential issues with the transmission and engine. The oil burns and does not leak after a few hundred miles and has to be refilled continuously causing alot of money and potential issues with other components of the car. I notice jerking when accelerating and smoke if dont fill every 1 to 2 weeks.

My 2016 kia Optima ex (VIN [xxx] , 2. 4l i4 di) suffered sudden engine bearing failure and complete engine seizure after approximately three months of use. After inspection, the kia scottsdale dealership confirmed that my vehicle’s VIN was eligible under the engine replacement warranty and submitted a request for assistance. However, kia America denied the request. This defect is identical in nature to the known dangerous defect covered under kia safety recall sc147 (NHTSA 17v-224) and related recalls for earlier Optima model years, involving connecting rod bearing wear leading to engine seizure. In my case, the defect caused a total loss of motive power, posing a serious crash risk. Kia motors America has refused to repair or replace the engine, claiming my vehicle is ineligible due to being purchased from an auto auction (sierra auction) and having multiple prior owners. This refusal ignores that the defect is a safety-related manufacturing flaw identical to those already acknowledged by kia and subject to federal recalls. I request NHTSA investigate kia’s refusal to extend the same safety remedies to my VIN and consider whether the scope of sc147 and related recalls should be expanded to include vehicles with the same defect pattern. Supporting documentation available upon request. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Several safety-critical systems failed on this vehicle. The engine (theta ii 2. 4l gdi) failed due to rod bearing wear, causing sudden power loss on the highway. The vehicle entered limp mode, once at 50 mph in 2018 and again at 70 mph in 2025, and had to be pulled over quickly to avoid collision. Additional issues: all four windows failed at different times, leaving them stuck open and creating safety risks in weather or emergencies. The trunk latch failed, causing unsecured cargo risk. Abs, tpms, and traction control warning lights illuminated repeatedly, indicating possible loss of critical safety systems. A loose wiring harness caused the turn signal bulb to burn out repeatedly, reducing visibility and signaling. The dealership performed the ksds software update after I reported engine trouble but did not resolve the issue. The engine soon failed completely while driving. Other issues, such as the fuse box blowing fuses from a standard usb charger have also been documented by a kia dealership but not always fully repaired. The most recent engine failure and electrical defects are being inspected by a kia dealership, and kia consumer affairs is reviewing the warranty claim. Prior to the engine failure, I smelled burning oil and topped it off monthly due to excessive consumption. The oil level light and check engine light only appeared during limp mode right before the failure. These repeated safety-critical defects, particularly sudden engine failure at highway speed, created a significant safety hazard for myself and others on the road. At the time of this report, I am in the process of seeking warranty coverage for the catastrophic engine failure through kia. The failure behavior (limp mode, flashing check engine light, and rod knock) is consistent with the safety defect described in the theta ii engine settlement. I am concerned that despite this being a known issue, there may be delays or denials in honoring the safety-related warranty repair.

Engine failed at 52. 350 miles due to excessive oil consumption confirmed by a kia dealership. Car was driving fine on 5/1/25, on 5/2/25, car started to stall with loud clicking noise, and wouldn't move fast, which then activated the check engine light.

I went to the garden grove kia to get my new 2016 kia Optima repaired for their knock sensor settlement repair. By their own terms of the agreement all original and subsequent ow ers can get vehicles repaired. They took my vehicle information, I gave them all details of my ownership of the vehicle and they said they would fix it. The next day I rented a trailer to take the vehicle to get repaired (vehicle still runs but don't think it's safe to drive like that) and upon arriving, a worker comes out and tells me that they will not repir the vehicle because I just purchased the vehicle. Craig, the manager, also refused to see ownership documents but gave me 2 things; legal advice saying that I should sue where I bought the vehicle from and a paper that said they will not fix cars owned by dealers and auctions. I am neither am neither nor. Craig, also stated that kia wont cover the repairs.

A month in after purchasing the check engine light came on. My car did not want to accelerate, started shaking and having jerking movement while driving on the freeway with my newborn and 3 other children in the car with me. Got stranded 3 hours away from home. Car has been in the shop going on 30 days. Spark plugs changed, coolant thermostat changed and now the engine was reported that it has failed. Still in the shop currently.

Valve 3 does not have compression sent to private mechanic. Sent to kia was told this is not covered under warranty for new engines went to say that intrest rates are down for new used cars. After some research this could be caused by engine recall.

The check engine light came on in the car. Upon having it checked at a local automotive shop, we discovered that the thermostat assembly is malfunctioning. This can cause the engine to overheat and shut off at any time which of course would be a severe danger. Additionally, a bad thermostat assembly in kia vehicles can lead to engine overheating or overcooling, potentially causing engine damage and even a fire risk. Upon searching, this appears to be a common issue with the 2016 kia Optima.

The car caught on fire while I was driving. No warning lights came on and the car didn't show it was running hot. I tried to engage the brakes, and they malfunctioned. I coasted the car to the side of the highway, where the fire and smoke plumed from under the car. I immediately exited the car and ran. As I was running from the car the grass was on fire. The car was totally destroyed by fire. The car has not been inspected by my insurance or kia. Kia has a class action settlement for car fires the year, make, and model of mine.

I have pictures.

I was driving on 295 and my engine light came on. My car started shaking when I was accelerating and when I don’t accelerate it stops. When I come to a complete stop the car jerks back and forth acting like it wants to stall… I’m waiting on a call back from my mechanic on their diagnostic results.

The contact owned a 2016 kia Optima. The contact stated while coming to a stop, the vehicle leaned forward as if the engine had moved abnormally too far forward out of position. The contact stated that her boyfriend attempted to roll down the passenger’s side window; however, the window failed to open as intended. No warning light was illuminated. In addition, the contact attempted to take the vehicle to the local independent dealer where it was purchased; however, the vehicle experienced a loss of automotive power. The vehicle was towed to the local independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the engine was blown and there was a hole in the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. In addition, the contact diagnosed the failure and related the failure to the motor mount, alternator bracket, and in need of an intake manifold replacement. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by the local dealer. The vehicle was given back to the local independent dealer and the vehicle was repaired and put up for sale. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 68,086. The VIN was not available.

Vehicle has been burning oil excessively for the last 3 years until engine finally went out.

Car has been consuming way more oil than usual which caused engine failed and I’ve filed several complaints with kia America few years before engine failure with concerns of how much money I was spending in oil.

The contact owns a 2016 kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to operate properly. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local good year service center where it was diagnosed and determined that the battery, alternator, and drive belt needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, several miles later the engine seized. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. In addition, the contact stated that all four windows shattered, and the window regulators were replaced several times. The contact stated that the front driver’s and front passenger’s side windows had shattered, and moisture entered the cabin of the vehicle during inclement weather. Upon further investigation, the contact related the failure to an undisclosed NHTSA recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 48,889.

Engine started making a knocking noise. Took the car to a machine that agreed this is the same issue that other kia's have had. Those kia's engines were on recall but for my year, it is not on recall. Even though it's the same exact issue. Car maintenance is up to date.

Vehicle went into emergency mode while in the highway system completely locked could not drive lost power and was forced to pull over and have vehicle towed, mechanic took a look indicated new alternator was required there for we purchased new alternator and new battery car turned on and same issue happened with in 20 minutes of test driving vehicle, this happened twice and could have cost our life’s! I am extremely disappointed and frustrated I have no means to fix the vehicle we used out saving to finally replace what we though was the issue but I’ve come across many same issues from other parties who experienced the same issue. The vehicle is paid off and we need assistance in fixing this issue it appears the engine or electrical issue at this point but I am scared to get on the road we have tried charging it back on but steering wheels locks up and dies a few minutes after please help.

The contact owned a 2016 kia Optima. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed smoke coming from under the hood. The contact stated that the passenger, who was seated in the rear passenger's seat, advised the contact to stop the vehicle. The contact stopped and parked the vehicle. The contact and the passenger exited the vehicle. The contact stated the engine was on fire. The fire department arrived and extinguished the fire. A fire report was filed. No police report was filed. No injuries were sustained. The vehicle was towed to a local tow yard. The vehicle was condemned as a total loss. In addition, the contact stated that two days before the failure, the vehicle was serviced by an independent mechanic. The independent mechanic replaced the engine sensor and the valve cover gasket. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 66,000.

The contact owns a 2016 kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 55 mph, the vehicle lost automotive power. The check engine and the engine oil warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle warranty had expired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 147,000.

My 2016 kia Optima is burning 5quarts of oil very fast every 2,000 miles. When I put oil in my car then 2 weeks later or a few weeks past, my car empty from oil.

1. Burning oil issue: I began noticing excessive oil consumption in my vehicle at approximately [130,000], with the need for frequent oil top-offs. I made multiple visits to my local dealership and reported the issue, but no lasting solution was offered. This burning issue is a known issue due to position ring failure. 2. Catalytic converter failure: due to the excessive oil burning, the oil eventually began to damage the catalytic converter. This caused significant issues with the performance of my vehicle, including [specific symptoms such as loss of power, poor acceleration, engine misfire, etc. ]. 3. Engine failure: as the oil-burning issue continued, the damage to the catalytic converter worsened, leading to a total engine failure. I am left with a car that is no longer operational, and I believe that these issues are the result of a persistent defect in the engine that should have been addressed under warranty or a recall.

The car has been burning a qt of oil every 4-5 days. Now it stalls when changing gears and won't go faster than 45 mph.

Driving down the road trying to accelerate. My rpm's wouldn't go over 2000. The engine started fluttering and the accelerator stopped working. Went to take to local repair shop and they stated it was an issue with the engine. Problem listed after a scan: obd p1326 recall number: pi1802w/x (rev 2, 01/28/2019) with this stated. My vehicle under the same year, model, engine, and production date are all calling for a recall but my VIN doesn't have a recall. So I am wanting to enquire why my vehicle doesn't have this recall.

My 2016 kia Optima is experiencing severe internal engine oil consumption that matches known issues kia has recalled and extended warranties for. The vehicle loses 1–3 quarts of oil every few days with no external leaks. A repair shop found a p0304 cylinder 4 misfire, p0010 cam actuator code, and spark plug damage caused by oil entering the combustion chamber. They confirmed internal engine damage and abnormal oil consumption. The kia dealership refused to assist due to mileage, even though this issue matches the engine defects covered under kia’s litigation settlement and warranty extensions. The excessive oil consumption creates a dangerous safety risk, including engine stalling, loss of power, and potential engine seizure while driving. I am requesting NHTSA review because the vehicle’s condition is unsafe and part of a widespread engine defect.

I am filing this complaint to urgently bring attention to a serious safety and mechanical defect with my kia vehicle's engine and fuel system. My engine is excessively consuming oil, to the point where it poses a significant risk of engine failure, which could result in a loss of power while driving and create a hazardous situation on the road. Details: I consistently have to add 5 quarts of oil approximately every month. During regular oil changes, there is barely any oil recovered from the engine, suggesting the oil is being consumed or burned internally. I took the vehicle to autozone for diagnostics, and they confirmed the engine is burning oil. They also mentioned it could be related to a rod or piston ring issue. There are no visible leaks under the vehicle, and the oil is not being expelled externally—it's being consumed by the engine. This issue is not normal wear and tear. It's a systemic engine defect that is causing rapid oil loss and is likely to lead to engine seizure or failure if not addressed. This level of oil consumption is not just expensive—it is dangerous. A sudden loss of engine power could cause an accident, especially at highway speeds. I am deeply concerned for my safety and the safety of others on the road. Urgency: I am requesting the NHTSA to investigate this issue and consider initiating a recall for affected kia vehicles. I am not the only one facing this problem—online forums and consumer reports are filled with similar complaints from other kia owners. This is a critical engine/fuel system safety defect that must be addressed immediately before someone is injured or worse due to engine failure while driving. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. I am available to provide service records, photos, and further documentation upon request. Sincerely, [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Driving vehicle down the highway and engine seized up without any warning. According to kia cooperate the vehicle could have experience a "bent rod failure". This was confirmed by a nearby kia dealership service tech.

The contact owns a 2016 kia Optima. The contact stated that after having a routine oil change and tire maintenance, the vehicle began making an abnormal clunking sound. The vehicle failed to start. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The message that the automatic brake was disabled was displayed. Additionally, several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact called an independent mechanic and was referred to the dealer. The contact called the local dealer, and the vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where an unknown diagnosis was made. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer declined to repair the vehicle. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 149,020.

The contact owns a 2016 kia Optima. The contact stated while driving approximately 60 mph, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. The vehicle was towed to the local mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure. The vehicle was later towed to the local dealer who confirmed the engine failure and informed the contact that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 110,000.

Engine burns over 2 quarts of oil every 500 miles due to carbon build up in engine resulting in engine ceasing up.