Three problems related to engine shut off without warning have 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.
Tl the contact owns a 2012 kia Optima Hybrid. While driving approximately 20 mph,the engine shut down and the hybrid system failure indicator illuminated. The vehicle was towed to kia of orange (714-602-1301, located at 210 w katella Ave, orange, CA 92867) where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and requested the contact to provide evidence of regular maintenance. The contact provided the information. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 86,287.
While driving car shut off and hybrid battery went dead. Is says �hybrid system warning shut off vehicle and do not drive�. I had the car checked and the engine seems to be locked up. I have seen several complains on this and I won't pay for a new engine when kia needs to be responsible.
While driving about 40 miles from home around midnight, on a busy freeway (I-5), going about 70 mph, my car suddenly flashed a warning about the hybrid battery discharging and to pull over. Then the power steering was gone and the car shut off. Thankfully we were able to coast to the side before getting hit. After about 5 minutes on the side of the road everything died including the emergency flashers and we were left in the dark waiting 2 hours for a tow truck. This is a serious safety hazard and we could've been hit or caused another accident. The car has not started since, however if the battery is actively being charged it will light up the dash board which just flashes welcome repeatedly and won't start. Currently at a kia dealership in tacoma, wa and waiting to hear what they think is wrong. From reading other stories on this site, sounds like this a reoccurring issue for kia and there was a recall for 2012 optimas, just not the hybrids.