Kia Optima: best and worst years
Every model year, ranked by owner complaints reported to NHTSA relative to time on the road. Click a year for its problems, recalls and trouble codes.
Years to avoid: 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016
Complaint rates far above this model's median, even after adjusting for time on the road.
Held up best: 2002, 2009, 2010
The fewest complaints relative to years on the road - at most half the model's median rate.
2020150 complaints · 0 recalls2019211 complaints · 1 recalls2018243 complaints · 3 recalls2017304 complaints · 4 recalls2016worst year760 complaints · 5 recalls2015worst year1,021 complaints · 4 recalls2014worst year617 complaints · 7 recalls2013worst year1,434 complaints · 10 recalls2012worst year1,027 complaints · 6 recalls2011worst year627 complaints · 6 recalls2010solid year75 complaints · 1 recalls2009solid year116 complaints · 1 recalls2008144 complaints · 3 recalls2007167 complaints · 2 recalls2006155 complaints · 2 recalls2005144 complaints · 0 recalls2004225 complaints · 1 recalls2003141 complaints · 2 recalls2002solid year107 complaints · 3 recalls2001143 complaints · 3 recalls
Ranked by complaints per year on the road (age capped at 12 years), so older years do not lead just because they have been around longer. Years under 3 years old are not judged - they have not had time to show their problems. Rates are relative to this model only and are not adjusted for sales volume.