2020 KIA OPTIMA

ENGINE

My engine is burning lg amounts of oil. There has been a lawsuit regarding the same issues with Kia engines (specifically up to 2019 Optimas). The Theta 2 engine lawsuit is regarding excessive oil consumption/burning, knock sensor issues, and deeper engine issues. This has been an ongoing issue for me and is ultimately affecting my engine. Kia will not cover the defects or repair expenses despite knowing the concerns with prior Kia Optima engines.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2020 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the low oil pressure warning light illuminated. The contact stated that one quart of oil was added weekly, even though the vehicle was rarely driven. The contact stated that the low oil pressure warning light failed to illuminate until the oil pressure was extremely low. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the failure was not diagnosed. In addition, the contact was informed that an oil consumption test was needed. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under warranty. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.

ENGINE

Without warning my car went into “Limp Mode” while driving on the highway almost causing a collision as I was forced to pull off the road on the highway. Flashing engine light car would not accelerate and was shaking dramatically. Was forced to wait for a tow on a busy highway. P1326 code. Rod knock. A known issue for the Theta II engine. Many recalls have been made for this exact engine for these exact problems but for some reason the 2020 Kia Optima is not included even though it is the same engine covered by lifetime warranty from the 2019 models due to these recalls and know issues. There’s plenty of recorded cases all over the web and is a wide concern for many affected Kia drivers. Kia does not offer the same KRDS update to 2020 Kia drivers as they do to earlier models even with the same engine failure issues so we don’t even get the benefit of possible early detection. Car is well maintained and inspected at a local American tire depot and I am still forced to deal with unwarranted engine failure on a known defective engine solely because KIA will not offer help for affected customers. The 2020 KIA Optima equipped with the Theta II 2.4L engine is not safe and is a known defective product. Action and accountability are needed.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Car burns oil at significant rate which ruins the engine

ENGINE

Car burns oil at significant rate which ruins the engine

POWER TRAIN

The vehicle experiences a dual-clutch transmission shudder in low gears and at low speeds. This issue causes a sudden loss of speed in situations such as merging onto a highway, leaving a parking spot, or while driving at approximately 30 mph. The shudder occurs randomly and poses a serious safety concern. The problem first appeared in 2020 when the vehicle had fewer than 5,000 miles on it. Beginning in 2024, at around 20,000 miles, the condition began escalating rapidly, with the shudder occurring more frequently and with greater severity. All incidents have been recorded on dash cam and provided to the dealership’s service department. The vehicle has been serviced multiple times for this issue and was kept at the dealership for approximately six weeks in total. Despite this, the dealer refuses to acknowledge the problem, citing the absence of warning lights. When the clutch was adjusted at my request, the issue temporarily improved but returned about three weeks later. The shudder now occurs more often and with greater severity, frequently forcing the driver to pull over for safety. This ongoing transmission defect creates unsafe driving conditions, and the lack of acknowledgement or permanent resolution by the dealer further increases the risk to the driver and others on the road.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I own a 2020 Kia Optima. My vehicle has experienced repeated low-pressure fuel pump failures, causing hard starting, loss of power, and stalling risk. These issues first appeared in July 2023 and have recurred despite multiple repairs. The dealership has replaced the upper portion of the fuel pump three times (July 10, 2023; March 1, 2025; June 9, 2025) for the same issue, but the problem persists. Most recently, in August 2025, the vehicle again exhibited difficulty starting and loss of power. Diagnostic code P123300 was found, indicating the pump is not generating enough pressure. The dealership confirmed the entire fuel pump assembly needs replacement. This is a serious safety concern because the vehicle has gone into limp mode three times while driving — twice previously on the freeway, and again on [XXX]. On that date, I experienced sudden loss of power while driving, but I had a scheduled oil change on July 29, 2025 so I waited until then to bring the car in. At that visit, the dealership claimed the problem was only an old code P0456 and that my car needed a software update. However, the very next day, my vehicle went into limp mode yet again, creating another hazardous driving situation. My check engine light has repeatedly illuminated, and each failure matches the conditions described in Kia’s extended warranty program (WTY028) for low-pressure fuel pump failures on my model year. The warranty extension letter (WTY028) for my vehicle states that “repairs related to low-pressure fuel pump failure” are covered for 15 years/150,000 miles. It does not state that only the upper portion of the pump is covered. However, my dealership (Sands Kia Surprise) insists that Kia will only cover the upper portion, even though my issue requires replacement of the entire fuel pump assembly to correct the failure. This repeated failure creates a dangerous driving condition and appears to be part of a larger defect affecting this model’s fuel delivery system. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION

ENGINE

Every since I bought my car back in 2020 I have to keep getting a oil change because my light keep coming on I was told by a mechanic the my Kia have a oil consumption problem

POWER TRAIN

The engine in my 2020 Kia Optima S (2.4L GDI Theta II) has been experiencing excessive oil consumption, engine knocking, and loss of power, consistent with known issues in earlier model years of this engine. This component is still in my vehicle and is available for inspection upon request. The issue puts my safety at risk due to unpredictable power loss while driving and the potential for engine seizure or fire, especially during high-speed travel. I’ve had to top off oil multiple times between regular oil changes, and the vehicle showed signs of low oil without any dashboard warning. No KSDS (Knock Sensor Detection System) software was ever installed on the vehicle. I have not yet had a full diagnosis from the dealer, but I have opened a case with Kia Consumer Affairs, who informed me that I do not qualify for recall repair based on the vehicle’s manufacture date — despite the engine matching those in previous lawsuits and recalls. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by the dealer, manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. However, I can provide receipts for oil purchases and logs documenting how often I’ve had to refill the oil. I am also filing a claim with my third-party powertrain warranty provider. Symptoms first appeared at approximately 85000 miles Engine knocking/ticking noise Oil light flashing briefly or low oil found without warning Needing to add 1–2 quarts of oil between oil changes Rough acceleration or loss of power This issue is widespread, has been previously acknowledged in other model years, and should be formally investigated in the 2020 Optima as well. I am concerned for the long-term safety and reliability of this vehicle

ENGINE

The engine in my 2020 Kia Optima S (2.4L GDI Theta II) has been experiencing excessive oil consumption, engine knocking, and loss of power, consistent with known issues in earlier model years of this engine. This component is still in my vehicle and is available for inspection upon request. The issue puts my safety at risk due to unpredictable power loss while driving and the potential for engine seizure or fire, especially during high-speed travel. I’ve had to top off oil multiple times between regular oil changes, and the vehicle showed signs of low oil without any dashboard warning. No KSDS (Knock Sensor Detection System) software was ever installed on the vehicle. I have not yet had a full diagnosis from the dealer, but I have opened a case with Kia Consumer Affairs, who informed me that I do not qualify for recall repair based on the vehicle’s manufacture date — despite the engine matching those in previous lawsuits and recalls. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by the dealer, manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. However, I can provide receipts for oil purchases and logs documenting how often I’ve had to refill the oil. I am also filing a claim with my third-party powertrain warranty provider. Symptoms first appeared at approximately 85000 miles Engine knocking/ticking noise Oil light flashing briefly or low oil found without warning Needing to add 1–2 quarts of oil between oil changes Rough acceleration or loss of power This issue is widespread, has been previously acknowledged in other model years, and should be formally investigated in the 2020 Optima as well. I am concerned for the long-term safety and reliability of this vehicle

ENGINE

Burning oil, not wanting to accelerate properly on the freeway, kia has engine in previous years having the same issue, and these 2020 and they are not trying to fix them.

POWER TRAIN

After complaining about clutch judder resulting in getting anti-judder logic software update, followed a month later by transmission serviced, transmission suddenly failed while driving in heavy traffic on the freeway. After repairs, judder keeps happening at low speeds on the freeway or slow speeds under load.

POWER TRAIN

Engine knocking and stalling on interstate

ENGINE

Engine knocking and stalling on interstate

ENGINE

Engine failure do to excessive oil consumption. I do have records. Not able to file now. Please contact if needed Thank you

ENGINE

Car consumes a lot of oil. Approximately 5 quarts per week-faulty engine parts allowing oil to seep into the combustion chamber. The oil is then ignited along with the fuel, creating blue-tinted exhaust smoke. It is burning out spark plugs which is then wearing them out and almost caused car accident when car started sputtering and would not barely go once pressing gas. Has been inspected by KIA dealership. Was told engine needs to be replaced-warranty expired and nothing can be done. Car only 2 years old when this problem started and they will not replace.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2020 Kia Optima LX 2.4, LESS THAN 100,000 miles on car. Car started over consuming oil 2 quarts/1,000 miles. Cranked engine yesterday to go to work and serious knocking sounds, engine is rattling severely. Losing revving power, undriveable. Smoke coming out of exhaust that smells like rotten eggs. Will be taking this to get codes run but I believe this is due to Theta II engine failure issue reported in similar cars with the same engine. KIA NEEDS TO COVER THE 2020 OPTIMA UNDER LIFETIME WARRANTY PROTECTION otherwise this is a $10,000 cost to replace engine.

POWER TRAIN

2020 Kia Optima LX 2.4, LESS THAN 100,000 miles on car. Car started over consuming oil 2 quarts/1,000 miles. Cranked engine yesterday to go to work and serious knocking sounds, engine is rattling severely. Losing revving power, undriveable. Smoke coming out of exhaust that smells like rotten eggs. Will be taking this to get codes run but I believe this is due to Theta II engine failure issue reported in similar cars with the same engine. KIA NEEDS TO COVER THE 2020 OPTIMA UNDER LIFETIME WARRANTY PROTECTION otherwise this is a $10,000 cost to replace engine.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

On multiple occasions, the HEV system warning light and check engine light activated while I was driving at highway speeds. Immediately after the warning lights appeared, the vehicle suddenly decelerated, putting me and other drivers at risk. This issue has occurred several times and is clearly a serious safety hazard. Each time this occurred, I brought the vehicle to an authorized Kia dealership ([Dealership Name]) for inspection. However, despite the vehicle being under the Kia hybrid system and/or powertrain warranty (10 years/100,000 miles), I was recently informed that the necessary repairs would not be covered under warranty.

ENGINE

On multiple occasions, the HEV system warning light and check engine light activated while I was driving at highway speeds. Immediately after the warning lights appeared, the vehicle suddenly decelerated, putting me and other drivers at risk. This issue has occurred several times and is clearly a serious safety hazard. Each time this occurred, I brought the vehicle to an authorized Kia dealership ([Dealership Name]) for inspection. However, despite the vehicle being under the Kia hybrid system and/or powertrain warranty (10 years/100,000 miles), I was recently informed that the necessary repairs would not be covered under warranty.

POWER TRAIN

On multiple occasions, the HEV system warning light and check engine light activated while I was driving at highway speeds. Immediately after the warning lights appeared, the vehicle suddenly decelerated, putting me and other drivers at risk. This issue has occurred several times and is clearly a serious safety hazard. Each time this occurred, I brought the vehicle to an authorized Kia dealership ([Dealership Name]) for inspection. However, despite the vehicle being under the Kia hybrid system and/or powertrain warranty (10 years/100,000 miles), I was recently informed that the necessary repairs would not be covered under warranty.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

by the time i’m due for an oil change the car has no oil. there is no leak and no smoke to show car is burning oil

ENGINE

by the time i’m due for an oil change the car has no oil. there is no leak and no smoke to show car is burning oil

POWER TRAIN

When the vehicle was about 3 years old and at 60,000 miles, the fuel injector went out. Kia took weeks to approve the replacement under warranty. Since then the engine light came on and said cylinder 3 has leak and fouls the plug. We've had it repaired 3 times. The mechanic said it would be too costly to repair and the engine should be replaced.

ENGINE

When the vehicle was about 3 years old and at 60,000 miles, the fuel injector went out. Kia took weeks to approve the replacement under warranty. Since then the engine light came on and said cylinder 3 has leak and fouls the plug. We've had it repaired 3 times. The mechanic said it would be too costly to repair and the engine should be replaced.

ENGINE

engine's knock sensor

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I bought my car brand new in July of 2020. In Spetember of 2023 roughly around 60,000 miles the engine started consuming large amounts of oil. The dealership put me through the so-called warranty process 3x over a years' time. They refused to file warranty paperwork within the year I was going through the process. I have documentation clearly showing the engine burning 2 qtrs. every 1000 miles. I still have a car that I am paying on that needs a new engine that should have been replaced under warranty, but KIA failed to honor the warranty. I have been left stranded on the side of the road multiple times with my 3 children needing oil. Not to mention the car will lock by itself with it running and no one in the car. The screen where the radio is will just go blank.

ENGINE

I bought my car brand new in July of 2020. In Spetember of 2023 roughly around 60,000 miles the engine started consuming large amounts of oil. The dealership put me through the so-called warranty process 3x over a years' time. They refused to file warranty paperwork within the year I was going through the process. I have documentation clearly showing the engine burning 2 qtrs. every 1000 miles. I still have a car that I am paying on that needs a new engine that should have been replaced under warranty, but KIA failed to honor the warranty. I have been left stranded on the side of the road multiple times with my 3 children needing oil. Not to mention the car will lock by itself with it running and no one in the car. The screen where the radio is will just go blank.

ENGINE

UNKNOWN, Engine excessively burns oil and is now seized. Kia used the same engine in this car as they did in the 2016-19 Models which were recalled for engine failure, however mine was not included. 2.4 Theda Engine.

ENGINE

I was driving down the interstate and all of a sudden the blinking lights of the check engine light came on and automatically I went from 75 mph down to 63 mph and when I looked up what it was, it was the knock detection system of the 2020 Kia Optima. I could not accelerate beyond 63 mph and I fear that the engine might stall on me so I went to O’Reillys and have them check it and it says it’s the P1326 Code

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I was driving down the interstate and all of a sudden the blinking lights of the check engine light came on and automatically I went from 75 mph down to 63 mph and when I looked up what it was, it was the knock detection system of the 2020 Kia Optima. I could not accelerate beyond 63 mph and I fear that the engine might stall on me so I went to O’Reillys and have them check it and it says it’s the P1326 Code

ENGINE

The car drives slowly and sputters because oil is burning out quickly. I have to replenish oil continuously.

POWER TRAIN

Accelerating at a normal rate to get on the highway and the check engine light starts flashing out of nowhere and car goes into limp mode. Made it to local shop and they informed me it was a P1326 code and that a knock sensor would have to be replaced, but that Kia has recalled the older models for this same reason.

ENGINE

Accelerating at a normal rate to get on the highway and the check engine light starts flashing out of nowhere and car goes into limp mode. Made it to local shop and they informed me it was a P1326 code and that a knock sensor would have to be replaced, but that Kia has recalled the older models for this same reason.

ENGINE

Hi, thank you for taking the time to look over my complaint. On Saturday march 22 while driving down the highway going about 75 mph, my car died. The check engine light was flashing and so was the oil light. I pulled over to the shoulder and when I tried cranking the car it sounded like a rumming noise and the car would not stay on. I had the vehicle towed to Texas Star Auto Shop. On monday march 24th i spoke with the mechanic and he said there is an internal engine problem . Since I am a 2nd owner and the car has 105,736 miles kia will not honor their extended warranty and I am left to pay out of pocket for repairs est cost 10,000+. I am now without a reliable transportation. This has left me annoyed and unhappy with the assistance from Kia.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Hi, thank you for taking the time to look over my complaint. On Saturday march 22 while driving down the highway going about 75 mph, my car died. The check engine light was flashing and so was the oil light. I pulled over to the shoulder and when I tried cranking the car it sounded like a rumming noise and the car would not stay on. I had the vehicle towed to Texas Star Auto Shop. On monday march 24th i spoke with the mechanic and he said there is an internal engine problem . Since I am a 2nd owner and the car has 105,736 miles kia will not honor their extended warranty and I am left to pay out of pocket for repairs est cost 10,000+. I am now without a reliable transportation. This has left me annoyed and unhappy with the assistance from Kia.

ENGINE

Dealing with sudden excessive oil consumption at 130,000 miles. Had an oil change about 2,000 miles ago and oil sensor has been going off after 1,500-2,000 miles driven. Mechanic put 3 more quarts in and a week and a half later oil sensor is going off again indicating low oil. Mechanic confined this has been a frequent problem with this engine and insists piston rings are faulty & will eventually need engine replacement.

VISIBILITY

The contact owns a 2020 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while attempting to make a right turn, there was an abnormal sound coming from the rear driver’s side window. The contact discovered that the glass had shattered. The contact stated that the Police Department advised her to contact the dealer where the vehicle was purchased, not the Insurance Company. The contact was informed that the failure was caused by a manufacturing defect. A police report was filed. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic to be inspected or repaired. diagnoses. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 58,009.

ENGINE

Same issue as the 2011-2019 recalled vehicles. (P1326)

POWER TRAIN

I am filing this complaint due to severe and ongoing safety defects in my 2020 Kia Optima EX, which has repeatedly stalled while driving, creating a life-threatening road hazard. Since September 2024, my vehicle has suffered from major failures, including a complete transmission replacement, multiple high-pressure fuel pump replacements, multiple oil flushes due to fuel contamination, and all fuel injectors replaced. Despite all of these “repairs” performed by a Kia-authorized dealership, the check engine light continues to return, and the vehicle still stalls unexpectedly, making it dangerous to drive. On March 10, 2025, after Kia claimed to have tested the vehicle for 200 miles, I picked up the car from the dealership, only for it to stall and trigger the check engine light within hours before I even reached my destination. This vehicle has been returned to me multiple times in an unsafe condition. Additionally, an independent mechanic discovered an engine oil leak and a torn axle that Kia’s dealership never disclosed. This raises major concerns about their lack of proper inspection and repair procedures. This is a serious safety issue that Kia refuses to take accountability for. I request an immediate investigation into this matter before this defect leads to an accident.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I am filing this complaint due to severe and ongoing safety defects in my 2020 Kia Optima EX, which has repeatedly stalled while driving, creating a life-threatening road hazard. Since September 2024, my vehicle has suffered from major failures, including a complete transmission replacement, multiple high-pressure fuel pump replacements, multiple oil flushes due to fuel contamination, and all fuel injectors replaced. Despite all of these “repairs” performed by a Kia-authorized dealership, the check engine light continues to return, and the vehicle still stalls unexpectedly, making it dangerous to drive. On March 10, 2025, after Kia claimed to have tested the vehicle for 200 miles, I picked up the car from the dealership, only for it to stall and trigger the check engine light within hours before I even reached my destination. This vehicle has been returned to me multiple times in an unsafe condition. Additionally, an independent mechanic discovered an engine oil leak and a torn axle that Kia’s dealership never disclosed. This raises major concerns about their lack of proper inspection and repair procedures. This is a serious safety issue that Kia refuses to take accountability for. I request an immediate investigation into this matter before this defect leads to an accident.

ENGINE

I am filing this complaint due to severe and ongoing safety defects in my 2020 Kia Optima EX, which has repeatedly stalled while driving, creating a life-threatening road hazard. Since September 2024, my vehicle has suffered from major failures, including a complete transmission replacement, multiple high-pressure fuel pump replacements, multiple oil flushes due to fuel contamination, and all fuel injectors replaced. Despite all of these “repairs” performed by a Kia-authorized dealership, the check engine light continues to return, and the vehicle still stalls unexpectedly, making it dangerous to drive. On March 10, 2025, after Kia claimed to have tested the vehicle for 200 miles, I picked up the car from the dealership, only for it to stall and trigger the check engine light within hours before I even reached my destination. This vehicle has been returned to me multiple times in an unsafe condition. Additionally, an independent mechanic discovered an engine oil leak and a torn axle that Kia’s dealership never disclosed. This raises major concerns about their lack of proper inspection and repair procedures. This is a serious safety issue that Kia refuses to take accountability for. I request an immediate investigation into this matter before this defect leads to an accident.

ENGINE

Oil consumption has rapidly been increasing causing the loss of several quarts of oil. Inspection by service center confirmed this is a known Kia issue and recommended a flush to help combat some of the issue. Service center did note that this issue would not fix the problem, but put off needing to replace the engine. Oil light was not flashing on the dash unless coming to a quick stop, but then would disappear. The value of these cars has resulted in quite a bit of negative equity for folks due to the theft issue. Now add on a fear of blowing an engine cause your vehicle is burning through oil like no tomorrow.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2020 Kia Optima. The contact stated while operating the vehicle, there was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that the vehicle was hesitating and there was excessive oil consumption. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the piston rings were faulty, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The local dealer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The manufacturer was contacted. The failure mileage was 127,000.

ENGINE

My car is using a lot of oil and I have to change the oil every 2 thousand miles, oil light will come on and I check the oil and it shows the oil stick almost dry within 2,000 miles after having oil changed. The car will loose power and has a ticking noise in the motor. It’s frustrating to have to change the oil every 2,000 miles instead of every 3,000-5,000 miles like most vehicles.

ENGINE

Vehicle Check engine light started flashing on and off, Code thrown is a P1326 and vehicle went into limp mode, shutting down power essentially going down the highway. Oil burning is excessive, and replacement of oil is at 1-2 quarts every 2 weeks. Engine is not running smoothly. No warning signs of oil burn present until oil pressure light flickers on when taking a curve or sitting on a major incline. Kia Dealership is aware of an issue with the P1326 codes and bearing wear, however, year of vehicle seems to not be included in the original lawsuit and recall/safety notice from all indications. Engine was manufactured and is the same as the 2019 engine that is included. Engine seizure is potential at highway speeds which could cause major harm or death during travel without warning.

ENGINE

The contact owns a 2020 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the vehicle was connected to a diagnostic machine. The DTC indicated a glow relay failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.

POWER TRAIN

Code P1326 and oil pressure light keeps flashing

ENGINE

Code P1326 and oil pressure light keeps flashing

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Code P1326 and oil pressure light keeps flashing

ENGINE

Oil pan developed stress crack below and along both sides of the oil pan drain plug All components are in place and there are no signs of road damage or damage do to obstacles being hit Leak started slowly and progressively became worse Returned car to have plug checked but no report back of any problem and it was documented on service order

POWER TRAIN

At gas, the vehicle jumps/judders as if it’s not getting enough gas to get up and go, and then at higher speeds it goes fine. Was reported to Horne Kia while under warranty. They never found the issues. Months later issue was found by a new mechanic, now the vehicle is no longer under warranty and the TRA codes are posted online. [XXX] Reported August 2021 [XXX] Reported December 2020 INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

ENGINE

I got a CEL (code P1326), three different times. Each time has been after a hard rain or a car wash. I have had to pay to have the knock sensor replaced each time, twice by a mechanic and once by a Kia dealership. There’s a recall for this issue on model years older than my 2020. I was told that Kia is aware but that there aren’t enough people having the issue to warrant them to investigate.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I got a CEL (code P1326), three different times. Each time has been after a hard rain or a car wash. I have had to pay to have the knock sensor replaced each time, twice by a mechanic and once by a Kia dealership. There’s a recall for this issue on model years older than my 2020. I was told that Kia is aware but that there aren’t enough people having the issue to warrant them to investigate.