One problem related to check engine light on has been reported for the 2012 Kia Motor Optima Hybrid. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2012 Kia Motor Optima Hybrid based on all problems reported for the 2012 Optima Hybrid.
Our car is currently at the dealer for the 4th time for the same problem. Last spring the engine warning light came on with the message "hybrid system warning! safely stop and do not drive". The dealer said it was the battery (regular, not hybrid) so we had that replaced (out of warranty - we paid for that). This past August, the warning message appeared again - the dealer said there had been a technical bulletin, and they performed an update (covered by warranty). We had the car back for a few days and the message appeared again, as well as the following message "check charging system". The dealer replaced a wire (under warranty). A couple of weeks ago, the check engine light came on and the hybrid system warning appeared again. This time (4th time) the dealer said that the traction motor needed replacing and that we needed a new transmission (also under warranty). We believe that there is an inherent problem with this car.