2017 KIA OPTIMA HYBRID Complaints and Recall Information
The 2017 KIA OPTIMA HYBRID has 2 complaints and 3 recalls filed with NHTSA. Owners most frequently report issues with fluid leaks and engine-related warnings while driving at highway speeds. One complaint involved oil leaking after the vehicle came to a stop. Another involved smoke from underneath the vehicle accompanied by an engine warning message and overheating components.
Common Issues
- Oil leak. The vehicle leaked oil after stopping, though it was not diagnosed or repaired.
- Engine smoke and overheating. While driving at 70 MPH, smoke appeared from under the vehicle and a warning appeared instructing the driver to pull over. The upper radiator hose melted and green coolant was sizzling on the engine’s heat shield.
There are 3 recalls affecting the 2017 KIA OPTIMA HYBRID, primarily involving the trunk latch, engine components, and related safety systems. These recalls address potential safety risks such as being trapped inside the trunk and engine damage that could lead to fire or stalling.
Recalls
- Trunk latch base. [Recall 23V594000] Affected 319,436 vehicles. The trunk latch base may crack, preventing the trunk from being opened from the inside. This creates a risk that a person could become trapped inside the trunk. Dealers will replace the latch base free of charge. Owner notifications were mailed in October 2023.
- Engine connecting rod bearings. [Recall 21V844000] Affected 10,731 vehicles. The bearings may wear prematurely, causing engine damage that increases the risk of fire or engine stall, which could lead to a crash. Dealers will inspect for damage and replace the engine if necessary. A software update including a Knock Sensor Detection System will also be installed. Repairs are free. Owner notifications were mailed in November 2021.
Owners of the 2017 KIA OPTIMA HYBRID who deal with repeated repairs, safety defects, or unresolved recall issues may have rights under their state’s lemon law. Consulting with a legal expert can clarify these rights and potential remedies.
2017 KIA OPTIMA HYBRID Summary
2017
Model Year
2
Total Complaints
2
Total Recalls
330167
Vehicles Affected
Recalls
2017 KIA OPTIMA HYBRID
319436 vehicles affected
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Rio, 2016-2018 Optima, 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. The trunk latch base may crack, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
Risk: A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
2017 KIA OPTIMA HYBRID
10731 vehicles affected
ENGINE
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which can result in engine damage.
Risk: A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Complaints
2017 KIA OPTIMA HYBRID
ID: 2065110ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving on the highway at 70 MPH, there was an abnormal amount of smoke coming from underneath the vehicle. The contact stated that DTC: P1326 was displayed on the instrument panel, with the message, “For Your Safety – Please Pull Over” displayed. The contact pulled over and opened the hood and there was a green liquid sizzling on the heat on top of the engine. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer where it was inspected; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. The contact was informed that the upper radiator hose had melted, and that the battery was an OEM part. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 115,000.
2017 KIA OPTIMA HYBRID
ID: 2058535ENGINE
The contact’s son owns a 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid. The contact stated that after coming to a complete stop, the vehicle started leaking oil. The vehicle was not taken to a mechanic or the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 90,000.