Steering Problems of Kia Motor Optima - part 2

Kia Motor Optima owners have reported 553 problems related to steering (under the steering category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Kia Motor Optima based on all problems reported for the Optima.

36 Steering problem of the 2015 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 09/17/2024

The contact owns a 2015 kia Optima. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. Additionally, the steering seized. The contact stated that the steering wheel was difficult to turn, and the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle was restarted; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 174,000.

See all problems of the 2015 Kia Motor Optima 🔎.

37 Steering problem of the 2017 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 08/30/2024

Car engine stuttered when turned on, then after a moment smoothed out . I noticed some looseness in response in the steering wheel while driving forward, after a short period of time driving the antiskid symbol and the eps symbol came on and I lost power steering. I turned off the car and turned it back on . The emergency symbols were gone and the power steering was ok. I headed back home and the symbols came back on and lost power steering again after driving about 3 blocks. I repeated turning car off and on to get home.

See all problems of the 2017 Kia Motor Optima 🔎.

38 Steering problem of the 2013 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 08/20/2024

The contact owns a 2013 kia Optima. The contact stated while driving 25 mph, there was significant play in the steering wheel and the steering wheel made abnormal sounds. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the steering column coupler had failed and needed to be replaced. The dealer informed the contact that the repair was not covered under TSB number: cha060. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 145,000.

See all problems of the 2013 Kia Motor Optima 🔎.

39 Steering problem of the 2014 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 08/14/2024

The contact owns a 2014 kia Optima. The contact stated while reversing and turning the steering wheel, the steering wheel felt abnormal and made an abnormal clunking sound. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. The vehicle was taken to autozone however, the failure could not be replicated. The contact related the failure to an unknown recall. The dealer was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 98,000.

See all problems of the 2014 Kia Motor Optima 🔎.

40 Steering problem of the 2014 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 08/01/2024

There is a serious malfunction with the motor driven power steering. Needs replacement as I am not able to steer my car thus I am not able to drive it.

41 Steering problem of the 2015 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 06/25/2024

My car was stolen using a usb cord and they tore my steering column, key ignition and brok my driver side passenger window.

42 Steering problem of the 2011 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 06/24/2024

1- steering wheel. Yes 2- not sure if something was going to happen while driving whether da or night or long distance traveling 3- I spoke with the service center a while back and didn't have a good time to bring it by. 4- no no just loud shaking from the steering wheel. It's been going on for at least a month.

See all problems of the 2011 Kia Motor Optima 🔎.

43 Steering problem of the 2016 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 06/21/2024

Rack record rack and pinion blow apart while driving.

See all problems of the 2016 Kia Motor Optima 🔎.

44 Steering problem of the 2015 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 06/02/2024

Lost power while in the middle of a turn while driving happened intermittently power steering and traction control lights come up on dashboard.

45 Steering problem of the 2014 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 06/01/2024

Kia 2014 Optima lx-there are noises in the steering column when turning the wheel or going over bumps. It sounds like metal rubbing together. Took it to a mechanic and it was determined there was a coupler problem and it was recalled. The mechanic said we should take it to kia to be fixed. I am anticipating having trouble getting them to fix it because my car year and model does not fit the total criteria. I am in new jersey and live on the coast near long beach island. It is humid here even though NJ is not listed. [xxx] kia recalled some 2011–2014 Optima vehicles to replace the flexible coupling in the motor driven power steering (mdps). The recall was for vehicles produced between August 12, 2010 and December 18, 2013 that were sold or registered in areas with high humidity and warm ocean waters. The flexible coupling can wear out over time, causing noise when turning the steering wheel, especially when the car is stopped. Kia dealers replaced the coupling at no cost to customers. Please let me know how I should proceed. I will be visiting my local kia to see if they will accomodate us. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

46 Steering problem of the 2014 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 05/30/2024

Driving down the road went over a speed bump and all the sudden the steering wheel started making a clanking noise it seem to steer fine but the steering column makes some kind of noise. I was told they have a recall on this item a bushing or something like that.

47 Steering problem of the 2013 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 05/16/2024

Dealership states I need a new coupling device. They told me this has been a problem in 2013 Optima.

48 Steering problem of the 2013 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 05/07/2024

Flexible steering coupling was faulty and replaced on 02-22-23 under recall. The same part became faulty again on 02-22-24, but ewald kia of oconomowoc refused to replace the defective part without charge. The hecu is under recall so I scheduled a service appointment for recall and when I arrived at ewald kia of oconomowoc, I was advised by service manager that they did no have parts to fix recall.

49 Steering problem of the 2013 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 05/06/2024

A few months ago I started hearing a clicking noise while moving my steering wheel from side to side I went to the shop and had my steering column replaced thinking that would solve the issue but the noise is still there. I heard there was a replacement for customers I purchased my call after that bulletin was issued.

50 Steering problem of the 2016 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 03/11/2024

I purchased a 2016 kia Optima from ecars in wichita KS in November of 2022. The car had no major issues until the Optima was stolen this last March. I recovered the car quickly but it was damaged. Had ignition pulled out steering column broken, window broken and lots of cosmetic damage. Was towed twice and in the shop twice. All has been fixed with auto insurance funds. I am part of the kia theft settlement and waiting for funds to be dispersed. Second part of my issue is that on 07/22/24 the check engine light came on while I was driving to work. It was blinking which indicates a serious engine issue. I turned around and went home and parked it. I started researching kia engine issues and found that my car is also eligible for the kia theta ii engine class action settlement but the submission deadline was 12/07/23. Since I was not the original owner, I was never notified of this class action settlement so could not submit a claim. I contacted midwest kia in wichita KS to see about their "buy back program" I found online that kia will sometimes buy certain vehicles back due to quality or safety issues. They want me to drive the car over 30 miles from my house to their lot so they can see the car in person, which I am not comfortable with. My question is what kind of legal recourse do I have with kia? am I still covered under kansas lemon law? I still owe over $15k on the Optima. I ended up buying a new car on Saturday from rusty eck Ford but didn't trade the Optima in because they told me it had a salvage title, which I wasn't aware of when I bought it. It caught on fire apparently. All the damage was fixed, which could have been covered under the settlement as a qualifying fire.

51 Steering problem of the 2017 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 02/25/2024

I am writing to bring a critical safety concern to your attention regarding my 2017 kia Optima lx. The steering wheel of my vehicle frequently loses power, necessitating a restart of the engine for it to function properly again. This issue occurs randomly, but consistently takes place during steering wheel turns. On one alarming occasion while navigating a winding canyon road, the steering lost power, compelling me to slam on the brakes to prevent the car from falling off the cliff. Another incident occurred while making a right turn, resulting in me slamming on the brakes to avoid colliding with oncoming cars, narrowly escaping a potential rear-end accident. When the steering loses power, it remains functional but demands significant physical effort. Unfortunately, in attempting to steer during one episode, I strained a muscle, leading to a week of suffering. Despite the severity of this safety concern, kia refuses to address the issue unless they can replicate it during a service visit. The problem occurs randomly, ranging from three times a day to once a month, with no warning signs prior to power loss. Kia has acknowledged this issue, evident in the warranty extension they provided up to 150k miles (attached). Regrettably, when I take the car to the dealership, they decline to address the problem due to an inability to replicate it. I believe this recurring steering malfunction poses a serious risk to my safety and the safety of others on the road. Your intervention in investigating this matter would be greatly appreciated to ensure the well-being of kia Optima lx drivers. Attached, please find the mentioned warranty extension letter from kia and an image displaying the mdps warning light illuminated during instances when the steering lost power. Thank you for your prompt attention to this urgent matter.

52 Steering problem of the 2013 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 02/16/2024

The steering wheel is making a lot of clicking noise when turning or going over bumpy roads. I have takin my car to several independent car shops only for them to tell me that this has been a common problem for this specific model as they have seen similar kia Optima’s and Hyundai’s with this issue. I was advised that if left alone, the problem can make the steering go bad and become a dangerous safety concern. I have contacted the kia dealership and they stated they want $150 diagnostic fee to look at it, even though they admitted that they’ve had customers bring their kia’s in for similar issue.

53 Steering problem of the 2014 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 01/25/2024

Clock spring broke causing airbag light to turn on. Clicking when turning steering wheel. Airbag will not deploy due to this issue. $800 cost of repairs.

54 Steering problem of the 2013 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 01/09/2024

The contact owns a 2013 kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 45 mph the steering column became very loose, and difficult to maneuver. The vehicle taken to the dealer and was not able to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.

55 Steering problem of the 2012 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 12/18/2023

The contact owns a 2012 kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds on several occasions and making a turn, there was a loud popping sound coming from the steering column and the wheels. Additionally, while attempting to shift into reverse, there was a popping sound coming from the steering column and floorboard. A mobile mechanic went to the residence where the vehicle was parked and stated that the failure might be associated with the steering column. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to a parts store where a handheld diagnostic scanner retrieved a fault code for steering wheel angle sensor signal failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 202,000.

See all problems of the 2012 Kia Motor Optima 🔎.

56 Steering problem of the 2009 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 11/10/2023

After 131,500 miles, struts, rotors and pads wore out. Lower ball joint and control arm also wore out, no injuries or accident.

See all problems of the 2009 Kia Motor Optima 🔎.

57 Steering problem of the 2020 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 11/01/2023

Steering wheel bearing broken. Had replaced in November and again now needs to be replaced. Major safety concern that kia should fix properly so the car runs efficiently.

See all problems of the 2020 Kia Motor Optima 🔎.

58 Steering problem of the 2020 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 10/21/2023

This is my 3rd or 4th complaint on here with no response, help, or acknowledgement! my 2020 finally got engine put in and car does not drive the same. Steering wheel acts weird, the engine has a sound, the anti collision lights went off twice, but could be due to weather. Kia told me that it's my responsibility since my yr is not on recall. I'm surrendering this car ASAP to give me piece of mind before another engine is due. I met several people at kia that are on their 2nd and 3rd engine and the mechanics told me they know I will be back for another engine! this is wrong and now I'm out of alot of money and surrendering this will add more negative factors. I have my receipts but im not posting publicly.

59 Steering problem of the 2013 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 10/06/2023

The mdps flexible coupling is needing replaced due to the play and knocking and chewing up of the plastic part and my local service center says its not covered. I gave the the NHTSA kia tech bulletin info when I scheduled my appt and was told yes its covered. They called today and said no its not because its 10yrs from the date of purchase and I said no it says 10yrs from the date of service. This was just diagnosed in the last month after spending money replacing other things thinking that was the cause. I just want the replacement that kia said they would cover.

60 Steering problem of the 2019 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 09/21/2023

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.

See all problems of the 2019 Kia Motor Optima 🔎.

61 Steering problem of the 2013 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 09/15/2023

The contact owns a 2013 kia Optima. The contact stated while driving 35–45 mph, the steering wheel was sloppy and there was play in the steering wheel. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who stated the failure was due to the electronic steering and gears. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The contact stated that the failure was related to customer satisfaction warranty extension program: cs1604/wty006 (power steering). The approximate failure mileage was 170,000. The VIN was not available.

62 Steering problem of the 2014 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 09/09/2023

While driving my car an alan went off telling me to pull over and turn off the vehicle. Unfortunately, I had no steering, brakes or acceleration and me and my two little boys were almost hit. I checked and my car year, make and model had a recall for the exact issue and module but mine wasn’t listed in the recall and I think it should be!.

63 Steering problem of the 2012 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 09/03/2023

The mdps steering motor flexible coupling on our 2012 kia Optima has deteriorated and a metal to metal clunking noise is made when turning the steering wheel left or right. See kia technical service bulletin (cs1604) dated August 2016. Stated in the bulletin is warm ocean waters in high humidity areas from texas to south carolina causes the problem. Apparently, those warm ocean waters and humidity do not go further north carried by the gulf stream and the warmer spring ,summer and fall seasons ; up to long island in NY as well as up to maine. Kia has extended the warranty from 5 years/ 60,000 miles to 10 years/unlimited mileage for vehicles in other states but not from the TSB year of 2016 when the issue was first documented. So our 2012 is not covered because 2022 is over. Please note , our car has 40,000 miles and has been garage kept. This mileage is 20,000 miles less than the 5 year warranty while the 10 year warranty mileage is unlimited. This steering part needs to be made into a mandatory recall by kia.

64 Steering problem of the 2017 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 09/01/2023

This has happened several times to me! while driving the steering wheel locks up and I have to coast to a stop to turn off the engine to reset the wheel. It has happened going 60mph down the hwy with my 3 young kids in the backseat. Going 30mph and I have almost hit two cars because of this. If I couldn't stop in time and time hwy wasn't a straight road we would've died. The part I need for the car has been on a back order for over a year. Kia said its not that big of an issue but my life and my kids life is at risk every day!!! please help!!! this can't only be happening to my car!!!.

65 Steering problem of the 2012 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 08/30/2023

Steering wheel play, steering coupler wear.

66 Steering problem of the 2014 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 08/27/2023

Steering seems to binding while turning the wheel in either direction.

67 Steering problem of the 2015 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 08/19/2023

Windows were broken and steering column was broken in to. Car was stolen and spray painted the seats and front end was smashed. Car was totaled.

68 Steering problem of the 2012 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 07/27/2023

The steering wheel has a loud clicking sound when I drive on the highway as well as when I turn the wheel left or right. It is so loud that I have to turn my radio volume high to somewhat drown it out. The flex coupler is the issue. Apparently this was a recall in the past. Since mine just started acting up, I just found out there was even a recall on this part. Tried to get kia to replace the part, but was denied. Currently escalating the issue as I do not agree with the decision, waiting on answer. I drive a total of 150 miles to and from work daily. When I hit normal bumps/dips in the road, the steering wheel shakes horribly. The sound is a major distraction to my abilities on the road. I don't think I should have to pay out of pocket for a part kia knew was defective. It literally feels as though the steering column is going to fall off eventually.

69 Steering problem of the 2013 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 07/24/2023

Mdps flexible coupling has failed. We hear a clunking sound whenever we turn the steering wheel. The wheel heavily vibrates while driving when hitting a slight bump, pothole, or when turning. Worried that this will affect the steering and won't be able to control the vehicle now that the coupling has failed. Dealership and a separate car repair place has confirmed and reproduced the issue. No warning messages or lights. Kia is refusing the replace this since it has been more than 10 years since the vehicle was first serviced. Was never notified about this issue when they first reported the TSB in mid-2016. Https://static. Nhtsa. Gov/odi/tsbs/2017/mc-10109834-9999. Pdf.

70 Steering problem of the 2013 Kia Motor Optima

Failure Date: 07/15/2023

The contact owns a 2013 kia Optima lx. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, after hitting a bump in the road, the steering wheel vibrated briefly before returning to normal functionality, which has since become a regular occurrence. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who was unable to diagnose the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related it to TSB cha-060, but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 50,000.



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