One problem related to engine clicking and tapping noises has been reported for the 2011 Kia Motor Optima Hybrid. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2011 Kia Motor Optima Hybrid based on all problems reported for the 2011 Optima Hybrid.
Our car began exhibiting a clacking noise when driving that would worsen with acceleration. Within 1-2 drives, it quickly progressed to be quite loud and constant, so we took it to our local dealership. We were informed that our engine had thrown a rod and would need to be completely replaced. We are just outside the 100,000 mile warranty and bought the car brand new in 2012 (yes, the year after the model date, taking advantage of the price break in buying old stock), so it is still a fairly young engine to be having this problem. It appears other non-hybrid kia and Hyundai models from the same year are having the same problem and have been recalled, but nothing on the hybrid vehicles, despite that we were also told this has been a common problem.