GradeKia Optima Reliability Grade
Below-average reliability
Grade a specific Kia Optima
Reliability changes from year to year. Pick a model year to see its grade, then add mileage and price to get a deal score and estimated miles remaining.
The Kia Optima earns a C- overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with an F for its engine and a C+ for its transmission. It ranks 9th of 11 midsize cars we grade. The engine (F) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 4,746 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2020 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
Kia Optima reliability by year
Overall grade for each model year, from owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Tap a year to see its full grade.
Best years: 2002
Years to avoid: 2012–2013 (stalling / loss of power) and 2016 (oil burning)
How long does the Kia Optima last?
A rough estimate for the model across all years, not measured for each model year.
Kia Optima vs. other midsize cars
| Model | Engine | Trans. | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Camry | A | A- | A |
| Mazda Mazda6 | A- | A- | A- |
| Volkswagen Passat | B | A | A- |
| Nissan Maxima | A | B | A- |
| Nissan Altima | A | B | B+ |
| Honda Accord | B- | B+ | B- |
| Chrysler 200 | C+ | C+ | B- |
| Chevrolet Malibu | C+ | C | C+ |
| Kia Optima | F | C+ | C- |
| Hyundai Sonata | F | C | D |
| Ford Fusion | D | F | D |
Own a Kia Optima?
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Rate your OptimaKia Optima reliability FAQ
Is the Kia Optima reliable?
Below-average reliability. The Kia Optima earns a C- overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with an F for its engine and a C+ for its transmission. It ranks 9th of 11 midsize cars we grade. The engine (F) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 4,746 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2020 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
How many miles will a Kia Optima last?
We estimate a well-maintained Kia Optima lasts around 190,000 miles. That's a rough figure for the model across all years, not measured for each model year, so check the grade for the year you're looking at.
What are the best years for the Kia Optima?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the most reliable Kia Optima model years are 2002.
What Kia Optima years should I avoid?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the Kia Optima years to be most careful with are 2012, 2013 and 2016. The 2012 grades a D overall (engine F, transmission C), and its top engine/transmission problem is stalling / loss of power. The 2013 grades a D overall (engine F, transmission C), and its top engine/transmission problem is stalling / loss of power.
Is the Kia Optima transmission reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Kia Optima transmission a C+ (average reliability). Reliability varies by model year, so grade the specific year you're looking at.
Is the Kia Optima engine reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Kia Optima engine an F (poor reliability).