2018 Kia Optima Complaint Log

Consuming fuel to the amount of roughly 1/2 quart per 150 miles. Vehicle has been inspected by mechanic and the oil pan, oil filter, and PCV valve has been replaced and engine oil UV dye added and cycled with no leaks found. The risk is that if not rigorously checked often, the engine will malfunction because the car runs out of oil. I have had my mechanic checking this car since I purchased it in January 2026. We have had to replace the oil pan and do two full oil changes with three separate quarts of oil being added in between all of that to keep it topped up. My mechanic agrees that the engine is consuming oil at an extremely high rate. My mechanic and a mechanic at the dealership where I purchased it are the only one who has inspected the car for this issue so far. The mechanic at the dealership is who recommended we replace the oil pan to see if that fixed the leak, which my personal mechanic did. Yes the critical engine failure lamp illuminates on the dashboard when the oil ran out the first time while I was driving it. This was how I discovered that there was an oil leak. This specific incident occurred three weeks after I purchased the car which I bought in mid-January of 2026.

I am submitting this complaint regarding ongoing and persistent mechanical issues with my vehicle since the time of purchase. The vehicle has repeatedly shut off unexpectedly, creating a serious safety concern. Initially, I suspected the issue might be related to the battery, and I have replaced the battery twice within the past 4 years. However, the problem has continued. In January, the vehicle began shaking and shutting down again. I took it to a mechanic, who diagnosed the issue as faulty spark plugs and an ignition coil. The diagnostic codes provided were P0303 and P0456, and the recommended repairs were completed. Approximately one month later, the vehicle began shutting off again. I then took it to the dealership, where I was advised that the valve cover gasket needed to be replaced, along with the belts, and that a fuel system cleaning was required. I subsequently had these repairs completed by my mechanic. Less than a week after completing those repairs, the vehicle once again began shutting down. A diagnostic scan then produced code P123300. In addition to these repeated shutdowns, the vehicle consumes an excessive amount of oil, has poor acceleration, and continues to stall unexpectedly both while driving on the road and while idling, such as in a drive thru. These recurring issues have made the vehicle unreliable and unsafe. I am concerned about the risk of the vehicle shutting off while in motion, which could lead to a dangerous situation. I am requesting that this matter be reviewed for potential defects or safety-related concerns.

About a month ago my paint on my 2018 Kia Optima snow white pearl car started bubbling, then it turned into peeling and has since then been coming off more and more. It is occurring right under the back seat of the drivers side window. Reading into this issue more, it is happening to many who own a Kia Optima owners, especially those who own the snow white pearl color. Kia is not helping customers who are out of warranty but since this is a manufacturer defect they should be, even if they are out of warranty.

I was sold an unsafe vehicle at J and J Auto house 6446 Wilshire Bl LA,CA 90022. Dealer withheld condition of car . Had car three months and was stranded on highway. Car was towed to Kia dealer and diagnosed with complete engine failure. Dealer will not honor limited warranty, shady sales practices withheld recall info during sale, won’t allow his mechanic to look at car, dodged calls, denied request to return car for refund

While driving my 2018 Kia Optima S, the car suddenly jerked, lost power, and stalled in traffic. Multiple warning lights came on at the same time including the oil light, battery light, and check engine light. I had no acceleration and the brakes became very hard to press. The vehicle had to be towed for safety reasons. The Kia dealership inspected the vehicle and confirmed internal engine failure due to “cylinder failure” and stated the engine needs complete replacement. This failure occurred without any external leaks and without warning other than the sudden loss of power. The dealer stated the issue is not covered, even though it is clearly an internal engine malfunction. This is a major safety hazard because the stall happened while I was in active traffic. A sudden loss of power and braking ability puts me and others at risk of an accident. The problem has been confirmed by the Kia dealership through diagnostic testing. The vehicle is still available for inspection. Warning lamps appeared only at the moment of failure, giving no advance warning. This appears to be related to the ongoing engine defects in Kia vehicles involving oil starvation, loss of compression, cylinder scoring, and internal engine failure. Cylinder failure and sudden stalling should be investigated as part of the known safety-related engine defects affecting this model.

Car keeps stalling while driving

Paint peeling from driver side door.

I turned the car off, it had difficulty turning back on and the brake pedal got really hard. I had to wait about 30-45 minutes and then I was able to get the car started and brake pedal back to normal and no lights. Recently, I left the car on to run into a shop real quick and come back out. When I got back to the car, the power steering light, battery, and warning light?(amber triangle with ! In the center of it) were all on. I rev the engine and the issue went away for a quick second but then came back on. To avoid turning my car off and being stuck, I just shift to reverse and tried to leave. I’m backing out of the spot and now the backup camera is going in and out lights flashing on the dash and I’m trying to brake but the brake pedal isn’t registering and next thing you know, I’ve backed into a guard rail. On the way to drop my kids off at the babysitter, I was coming to a stop sign, and my car wouldn’t brake, i went through oncoming trafic and had to run off the road. KIA did a multi point inspection a few months apart from one another. One the car tested fine, then the second time they are saying a brake booster and no engine oil in the vehicle and that the car is basically trash. The oil light goes on and off and I can smell burning oil. I still owe 7 grand on this car and I just bought it last year and it was seamingly fine.

My engine is under the Kia class action lawsuit for the KDS with the rod bearing clearance issues. I have done all my oil changes with paper work available. I got the update to the ECU several years ago as needed to be covered. Now my engine has failed and I took to the dealer to check but they said I didn't have a specific code and that they can't do any testing to verify it would be under the warranty. I called Kia Customer Care and have talked to them several times. They have told me there wasn't a need for the code and that the dealer could do other testing. The dealer stated that they can't do the BCT test due to a cylinder not having compression. I told Kia this is all related to the bearing going out and they said they can't do anything if the dealer said it's not under warranty. So I have now been going in circles with kia and dealer since 11/18/25. I sent kia another email on 12/15/25 and another on 12/18/25 due to not receiving a response. It's now 12/23/25 and still no response. They have a service bulletin that I seen online that was for dealers if any issues with testing they had other options but still nothing has been done.

Paint on all four door handles are bubbling and chipping. I rarely use the backseat handles and passenger door, which makes it more likely to be a malfunction in whatever paint was used for the handles. There is no fading, chipping, or bubbling on other parts of my car.

Steering column coupler went bad. Unable to swap out the coupler alone ($12 part) and had to get a whole new column (over $1200). Some of the Kia's around this one's make and model were recalled but not this one. Without this repair driving would have been dangerous.

I’ve had my car for 6 months and it constantly burns oil I’ve had 4 oil changes because it Is completely disappearing but my mechanics can not find any leaks. Then I changed all my spark plugs and two were completely burnt and they were changed a month ago and now one of them went again and this time is completely covered in oil

I was rearended, all air bags deployed except steeringwheel

Engine seized and stopped working. While I could not find any recall information based on the VIN, it is a 2018 Kia which was subject to the Kia Engine Settlement (In re: Hyundai and Kia Engine Litigation , No. 8:17‑cv‑00838‑JLS‑JDE and Flaherty v. Hyundai Motor Company, et al. , No. 18‑cv‑02223 (C.D. Cal.)). Was never notified of such settlement as the VIN would have triggered this notification by Kia but they obviously did not list this in the recall.

Car would convulse and shake very wildly metal parts spread around engine. It has very rough idle. 4th cylinder went out and car only has about 99060 miles. The valve went out. My safety was very bad as car was not driving safely and shaking like a person having a seizeure each time it would stop. Vehicle has been inspected by a Kia dealer. This problem I had seems to get an issue many other people with Kia Optima have.

Trunk latch broke leaving it impossible for someone in the trunk to get out and very difficult for someone on the outside to open the trunk

On August 26, 2025, I brought my 2018 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid to an authorized dealer for recall SC218 (engine inspection and KSDS software update). The dealer verbally stated both SC218 and SC278 recalls were completed, and the repair order (RO #XXX) lists them as performed. In September 2025, Kia America emailed me showing recall SC218 still open, and a warranty coverage report dated September 26, 2025, again listed SC218 as unclosed. On November 4, 2025, NHTSA’s official VIN lookup confirmed the recall remains “Incomplete.” On October 21, 2025, Kia America emailed me under Case #XXX stating that SC218 was “confirmed completed” and that the dealer performed a software update to the ECU, referencing RO #XXX. However, NHTSA’s database still lists recall SC218 as incomplete. This contradiction between Kia America’s internal record, the dealer’s invoice, and the federal NHTSA database raises a serious safety concern that the recall inspection or software update was never actually performed or was never reported correctly. I have requested written proof and diagnostic data (Battery SOH report) multiple times but have not received them. If accurate, this means I was led to believe my vehicle’s engine-safety recall had been repaired when federal records still list it as open. I am requesting NHTSA to review this reporting discrepancy, ensure Kia America and the dealer produce verifiable proof of completion, and confirm that the federal record is corrected. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Car suddenly stopped working; it was struggling to stay on. Mechanic stated cylinder is not functioning at full force.

My 2018 Kia Optima has a cracked oil pan, which caused an excessive oil leak —up to 5 quarts in a matter of hours. This eventually led to my engine going out.

My 2018 Kia Optima went into limp mode while exiting the freeway. I had it scanned and received a P1326 code, which is directly tied to the known engine knock sensor / bearing wear issue in Kia models. The engine light came on and the car lost power suddenly. This created a very unsafe situation. I contacted Kia, and they confirmed that my VIN is not included in the engine recall (KSDS campaign), even though my symptoms exactly match the covered vehicles. I am now stuck with an undriveable car and no recall coverage, even though I’m facing the same failure risk. I believe this VIN should be included, and that this is a clear safety issue. I am requesting the NHTSA to investigate and push Kia to expand coverage to include more affected vehicles.

Kia is aware of the engine oil consumption causing misfires, failed emissions test, blowing a rod and engine lock up. THEIR SOLUTION WAS A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT THAT STATE ONCE THE CAR IS LOCKED UP OR ROD HAS BLOWN THROUGH THE ENGINE THEN THEY WILL FIX IT. I HAVE HAD TO ADD OIL AT LEAST 3 TIMES EVERY 3000 MILES AND CONTINUE TO REPLACE THE OIL FILTER AS WELL. THE SPARK PLUGS HAVE BEEN REPLACED MUTLIPLE TIMES ALSO TO HELP WITH THIS ISSUE. KIA ADVISED THAT MY VEHICLE DID NOT FALL UNDER THIS RECALL EVEN THOUGH MY VEHICHLE IS HAVING THE SAME ISSUES AS THE RECALL STATES. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE WITH THIS MAKE AND MODEL AND THEY SHOULD NOT BE ABLE TO GET AWAY WITH SELLING DEFECTIVE VEHICLES AND NOT REPAIRING THE ISSUES THEY KNEW THEY HAD PRIOR TO SELLING THE VEHICLES. SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE.

Purchased car about 4 months ago, before warranty ran out, the shop looked at it told me it was fine, it wouldn't accelerate. Few weeks later same issue but all my oil was gone, they found 11 things wrong with the vehicle, told me warranty wouldn't take care of it unless the engine blow up. The salesman Scottie Mitchell told me check Kia for recalls, called Kia 3 recalls, they were trying to finance another car higher, back wanted to know why the dealership didn't know about recalls, Kia place did call a Robert. One of the owners did know about recalls, why dealership didn't pass them on. They trying to sell me a higher vehicle to keep cover the cost of the one I got 1st

The car is literally burning through oil so bad every other week I am putting more in, the electrical system continues to fail and shorts, the motor sounds like it is ticking now due to the oil consumption.

The 2.4L Theta II engine in my 2018 Kia Optima is failing, exhibiting excessive oil consumption, with oil loss documented at over 1 quart per 1,000 miles, leading to secondary failures in the catalytic converter, clogged with oil carbon and breaking into pieces that may damage the cylinder walls, and the spark plugs, which are fouled with carbon, causing misfires. The engine and related components remain intact and un-repaired, pending Kia’s required 3,000-mile consumption test. Safety of drivers have been put at significant risk. The excessive oil consumption and potential engine seizure threaten sudden loss of power, especially on freeways where car fails to accelerate to city and highway speeds, increasing the chance of a collision. The clogged catalytic converter poses a fire hazard, (reported by NHTSA investigations into Theta II) where oil leaks or debris can ignite on hot surfaces. Risk is heightened during the mandated 3,000-mile test as well. Problem has been confirmed by both a dealer and an independent service center as recent at 1 July, '25, documenting oil loss and new engine recommendation. Symptoms began with noticeable oil loss during oil changes, starting at least 1 quart per interval on May 10, 2023 (mileage 43,374), with the loss increasing over time. Misfires and RPM loss during acceleration first appeared after the oil valve gasket replacement in late May 2025, and freeway pickup issues became apparent around mid-June 2025. The full engine failure was confirmed by Spitzer on July 01, 2025.

My 2018 Kia Optima LX began using excessive oil (>3 quarts/1000 miles) just over 100K miles. I researched and found that the Theta II engine in my car is known for this. When I took my car to dealership (Stokes Hodges Kia, North Augusta, SC), with the check engine light on, they told me me plugs were fouled (they were just replaced 1 yr prior), cylinder 3 misfiring, and that I needed to pay a few thousand dollars to have repaired. When I asked them to guarantee the soaking process they recommended, they responded that they couldn't, that it "only worked 80% of the time." I have the KSDS download since 2019 and asked them to follow the guidelines of their TSB ENG 222 for the class action lawsuit and start a 1000 mile oil consumption test. they refused, basically telling me the only way to get a new engine from Kia, since my car is over 100K miles, is to drive it until the engine seizes. I expressed my fear for personal safety, but they wouldn't help me. I am original owner and have all services, etc documented. I called Kia customer affairs, then was told only local dealership could help. they stuck me in a loop between them without helping. Please help me.

Engine failed despite maintenance and repairs. The car is part of the active class action for Kia Engine Defects. The KSDS software was never installed as we were never notified about the recall by kia. As a result, Kia denied coverage under the engine defect class action settlement. We need this vehicle repaired or compensation for replacement

Subject: Urgent Request for Engine Replacement – 2018 Kia Optima Dear Kia Consumer Affairs, I am writing to formally report a recurring and increasingly dangerous engine issue with my 2018 Kia Optima, and to request immediate assistance, including consideration for an engine replacement due to ongoing safety and reliability concerns. Since June 2024, I have routinely visited the Kia dealership on a near-monthly basis for service due to persistent problems with excessive oil consumption and spark plug failures. Each visit has resulted in service-related expenses, despite my efforts to maintain the vehicle in accordance with manufacturer recommendations. Unfortunately, the issue has not been resolved and continues to worsen. Most recently, on [XXX], I experienced a critical incident. While driving, the engine began shaking aggressively, the check engine light illuminated, and smoke was detected coming from the engine compartment. Out of concern for my safety, I immediately pulled over and had the vehicle dropped off at a nearby garage for emergency inspection. This incident, combined with the repeated monthly service visits and associated costs, clearly indicates a systemic issue that may be linked to known engine defects in similar Kia models. I urge Kia to review my case for warranty coverage, recall eligibility, or goodwill engine replacement assistance. I have attached supporting documentation including service records, receipts, and oil consumption logs. Please advise on the next steps for resolving this matter. Thank you for your attention. I look forward to your prompt response. Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Got an oil change, and they advised that it was low on oil. (I had just replaced it recently) I took it to the dealer and they advised a part was bad, that they replaced. I was driving and the check engine light and oil light came on . I had to tow car. Dealer said the engine was burning oil, and that the engine is covered, but I would have to drive it until it got worse.

This vehicle has an active recall: SC218 / DTC P1326 – ECU UPDATE / ENGINE REPAIR. I brought it to Martin Kia in Newark, Delaware, but they refused to perform the recall stating that since the vehicle is owned by a used car dealer, the recall is not applicable. They also provided a written statement saying that the extended warranty does not apply because I am a dealer, and that they will not perform any recall work until the vehicle is owned by a “customer.” However, federal law requires all safety recalls to be completed free of charge, regardless of the vehicle’s current ownership status or whether it is owned by a dealership. This is a safety issue and refusal to perform recall work puts future drivers at risk. I have attached the letter they gave me for your reference. I kindly request your urgent review of this case and enforcement action to ensure the dealership complies with federal recall obligations.

The contact called on behalf of his son who owned a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 25 MPH, the front of the vehicle crashed into the rear end of the vehicle that was in front of him whom made a sudden stop. The contact was concerned that the air bags were not deployed. No warning lights was illuminated. A police report was filed. No medical attention was sought, and no injuries were sustained. The vehicle was pronounced totaled at the scene. The contact attempted to contact the manufacturer however, received no response. The failure mileage was 96,145.

I am the current legal owner of a 2018 Kia Optima Hybrid (VIN: [XXX] ), which has an open safety recall under campaign number SC218Y3 (DTC P1326 – Knock Sensor Detection System / ECU Update / Possible Engine Repair). I attempted to schedule the recall repair with Martin Kia in Newark, Delaware. However, the service department refused to perform the recall service on the basis that I purchased the vehicle from an auction and do not have prior service records. This denial is a clear violation of federal recall regulations. As stated by NHTSA, all safety recall repairs must be completed free of charge regardless of ownership history or how the vehicle was purchased. I am now left with a potentially dangerous vehicle that Kia refuses to service, despite an active recall on file. This situation is unacceptable and puts me, as well as other road users, at risk. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate Kia’s non-compliance and ensure they are held accountable for refusing to fulfill their legal obligations regarding this recall. I am willing to provide proof of ownership and any supporting documentation. Thank you Best regards My Contact Info: [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

The engine of my 2018 Kia Optima is burning oil. When it started, I had 72,000 miles, and it's burning one quart of oil every thousand miles. There is no oil leak. I will take it back to Kia on October 2, 2025. The mechanic reported that it has an internal engine issue.

Vehicle engine shut down without warning while driving on the interstate on April 27,2025. I had the vehicle towed and come to find out a "campaign" was issued for the vehicles engine in July of 2018. I purchased the car used in March of 2021 and was not aware of the "campaign" in which the vehicles engine was defective and could possibly cause a fire. I have reached out to KIA to see if they could help me in resolving the issue with the engine, but have yet to hear back from them.

My teenage daughter regularly drives this vehicle. The vehicle began experiencing significant oil consumption, oil leaks, and intermittent loss of power. During an early inspection at an independent repair facility, a check engine code P1326 was identified. Due to the symptoms and diagnostic code, the repair facility advised that the vehicle could be heading toward engine failure and recommended that the vehicle be taken to an authorized dealership because potential engine issues may fall under manufacturer warranty coverage. The vehicle was then towed to an authorized dealership. During the first visit, the dealership retained the vehicle for an extended period of time, approximately two months. During that visit, several recommended services were completed, including replacement of spark plugs, ignition wires, and replacement of the valve cover gasket along with other recommended maintenance. During that visit, it was also stated that the vehicle has a known issue with excessive oil consumption. Because of this, the oil level is checked weekly and oil is added as needed. I also informed the dealership that the independent repair facility had identified code P1326, but I was told that the dealership diagnostic codes were different. After these repairs, the vehicle experienced another incident where it lost power and began idling roughly while being driven on a busy highway. The vehicle was taken back to the dealership. During that visit, it was stated that the fuel injector harness and oil pressure sensor needed to be replaced. The dealership also indicated that the spark plugs needed to be replaced again, even though they had been replaced at the same dealership less than a year earlier. At that time, I asked if the vehicle would be safe to drive for approximately one week because I needed to travel out of town and my daughter would need the vehicle. The dealership advised that it was safe to drive during that time. The vehicle was then brought back to the deal

Oil consumption and engine code P200A

I was driving on the highway with my children and the engine started to knock and lock up. I had to swerve onto an exit and roll into a gas station. My check engine light was on. I had it serviced in 2023 at a kia dealership. I had electrical issues to my battery that I opted to get fixed elsewhere. The dealership was aware of the recall on my engine, when I had it towed to them in 2025. Dealership said I opted out of a recall on my engine.

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact turned off the cruise control; however, the failure persisted, and the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that the check oil warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to coast to the side of the road. The vehicle failed to restart, and the vehicle was towed to a service station. The vehicle was then towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the high-pressure fuel pump had failed, causing fuel intrusion into the engine and engine failure. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 146,000.

Mi Kia Optima 2018 con motor 2.4L GDI presenta consumo excesivo de aceite, un problema que he visto reportado por muchos otros propietarios del mismo modelo. En solo 700 millas recorridas, el aceite baja hasta el punto “Low” sin fugas visibles. Este consumo anormal puede causar fallos en el motor si no se revisa constantemente. El concesionario Kia ya revisó el vehículo, pero como no hay recall abierto, no ofrecieron solución, a pesar de que este motor ha sido identificado en boletines técnicos por este problema. Solicito que este caso sea considerado por la NHTSA para que se investigue si debe emitirse un recall extendido para los Kia Optima con motor 2.4L GDI.

The oil consumption is burning at a faster rate than normal. My oil changes are always on time but for months I have been having to take it for an oil change about 2,000 miles below mileage time. I have had it inspected but found no oil leaks. This is a major problem for the engine and safety.

Passenger seat belt goes off when no one is sitting there.

It started with the oil. I constantly have to add oil. when it first started that’s what I was doing just adding oil. Then it got worse the engine light started to come on and it no longer gives me the low oil warning. I took it to the dealership and it was there for about three weeks. They said that the car needed a system update, they updated it and i took it home after that. Its been about a year since then and my car is still having the same issue and getting worse. I had to change the spark plugs a few times since then i also have oil coming out the back pipe and it’s been doing this since before I took it to the dealership. I also had to spend money on a rental car while it was at the dealership.

It burns oil constantly. I constantly have to get new filters put on because they become black very quickly same with the oil itself. The engine has a tic and I know other people with optima’s that have the same problem. I burn through 4 quarts in two weeks- less than 600 miles.

Kia is aware of the engine oil consumption causing misfires, failed emissions test, blowing a rod and engine lock up. THEIR SOLUTION WAS A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT THAT STATE ONCE THE CAR IS LOCKED UP OR ROD HAS BLOWN THROUGH THE ENGINE THEN THEY WILL FIX IT. I have had to replace the spark plugs multiple times in last 12 months due to misfires while driving. I HAVE BEEN TOLD BY THE DEALER THAT THEY CANT DOING ANYTHING TO HELP EVEN THOUGH THEY ARE AWARE THEY SUGGEST THAT I DRIVE WITH NO OIL AND LOCK THE ENGINE UP EVEN THOUGH IT COULD CAUSE A CRASH. MY LIFE SHOULD NOT BE PUT IN DANAGER FIRST IN ORDER FOR THEM.TO FIX THE ENGINE.

Increased oil consumption with needing oil added and or changed half way before date or milage stated, oil changes performed by Kia dealer. Car staling and engine knocking while driving. Burnt smell while driving.

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle went into LIMP Mode. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V224000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 106,000.

Complaint-Car misfired, oil leaking on spark plugs causing an Engin Replacement that was first complained to Gossett Kia Covington Pike,1900 Covington Pike, Memphis, Tn 38128 on [XXX].On [XXX] complaint car shakes, misfire. Complaint to Gossett Kia South 2680 Mt.Moriah Rd, Memphis, Tn 35115. This date car stayed at dealership 3 days invoice a diagnostic was performed total amt $913.38. On 12/26/24 Mr.Macias on Mt.Moriah asked me to bring my vehicle in for another diagnostic test, amt to be charged $251.00 this time a tune up, replaced #4 spark plug that had misfired, fuel injectors cleaned I asked Mr.Macias "why would I have that done when it had been done the month before, the Tech recommended Engine Replacement. I also asked the above, what about the Tech's findings, Mr.Macias stated he would get back with me. On 1/16/25 Mr.Macias called to discuss Engine replacement (Projected Amt:$6,300). I have contacted Kia Consumer Assistance on 1/10/25 to discuss all of the above to no avail. I have been without a vehicle since 12/3/26 I am continually getting the run around, I have all invoices to verify my dilemma with a vehicle that is sitting unused. I am a [XXX] who is still making a $484.00 car payment per month. I've done my research on the 2018 Kia Optima's, only to find that the same problem that I'm having with the oil leaking on the spark plugs, misfiring , shaking, causing stalling in the middle of traffic, if this is not a hazard, what is ? This a problem that should have been corrected long ago. I would appreciate it if you would please help me. I'm tired of having to pay to get to and from Dr's. Office visits, drug stores and grocery stores. Thanking you in advance, [XXX] [XXX] or email address : [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

I drove the car to the park about 6 miles round trip with family. I came back home and started having lunch for about 25 minutes. I then attempt to start the engine to go to my appointment but then car didn't turn on. On third attempt I had a weird noise coming out of the hood and I went back inside the house to get my gloves. When i came outside of the house, the hood of the car was in flames. I called 911 to turn off the fire. The car is now at a total loss.

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle went into LIMP Mode, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was restarted; however, the failure recurred while driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the spark plugs had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred while driving. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the engine had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact was informed by the dealer that the repair could not be covered due to the poor maintenance of the vehicle; however, upon providing all the maintenance records, the dealer informed the contact that the vehicle could not be repaired unless the engine had fully seized. The dealer offered a trade-in offer; however, the contact declined the offer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 111,000.

Check engine light began flashing halfway down the highway. Oil changes and maintenance are done regularly. Vehicle handling seemed to be unsafe. Vehicle would not accelerate. Had inspection done in September.

While driving at night if the headlights will randomly turn completely off