Fourth generation (JF)
2017 Kia Optima
The most reported problem on the 2017 Kia Optima is engine failure, with 72 complaints, usually around 68,000 miles.
- 256owner complaints
- 3recalls
- 4involved a crash
- 57,000median miles at failure
Newest report Sep 28, 2026 · checked Oct 2, 2026
What is your Optima doing?
Each one opens a sheet built from the owner reports of that problem on the 2017 model year.
Is the 2017 Kia Optima reliable?
The 2017 Kia Optima has 256 owner complaints on file with NHTSA, 1.4 times the median of 178 for 2017 sedans on this site. Of the 7 Optima model years since 2014, it has the 4th most complaints. Complaint counts rise with sales as well as faults, so read what owners report below before deciding.
At a glance
- Next to the 2016 and 2018
- At 26 complaints for each year on the road, the 2017 runs well under the 2016 (69) and close to the 2018 (26).
- Top problem
- Engine failure leads with 72 of the 256 complaints (28%), ahead of misfire at 49. A quarter of the 37 owners who gave a mileage for engine failure saw it by about 30,000 miles, and half by about 68,000.
- Crash, fire and injury reports
- 13 of the 256 complaints (5%) report a crash, a fire or an injury, about the 6% typical of vehicles on this site. Counted separately (one report can carry more than one), 4 reports mention a crash, 9 mention a fire and 7 people were hurt.
- Recalls behind the top problems
- No recall on file is on the same system as engine failure, misfire and stalling. For those, the complaints are all there is.
- When owners filed
- Filings peaked in 2023 at 61 (full calendar years only). In 2025 there were 42. So far in 2026, 20 more have come in.
When each problem shows up
Each bar covers the middle half of the mileages owners reported for that problem. A quarter saw it earlier, a quarter later. The tick is the median. Most reported: engine failure, knocking or rod bearing, 72 complaints.
middle half of reports, median tick. The heavier grey bars have 75 or more reports.
Behind you
Around your mileage
Ahead of you
How this compares
256 complaints is about the median for a 2017 model on this site and 1.4 times the median 2017 sedan. Among the 7 Optima model years here it ranks 4th for complaints. Counts follow sales volume as much as reliability, so a truck that sells 700,000 a year draws more reports than a sedan that sells 200,000.
Service bulletins for the 2017 Kia Optima
Kia filed 179 bulletins and other notices with NHTSA that list the 2017 Kia Optima. 33 of them deal with a problem owners have reported on this car. Newest first.
Federal rules make a manufacturer send NHTSA a copy of any notice about a defect that goes to more than one dealer or owner. Most of these are service bulletins, the repair instructions manufacturers send to dealers. NHTSA generally leaves safety recall bulletins out of this file, and recalls are listed separately.
Engine failure, knocking or rod bearing 3 bulletins · 72 complaints
PITSTOP: INJECTOR HARNESS ROUTING FOR PI1802Y/Z AND PI1803Y/Z ENGINE REPLACEMENTS This bulletin provides information to address a no-start or hard start with poor running condition after engine replacement under PI1802Y/Z or PI1803Y/Z. Some replacement long blocks may come with pre-installed fuel rail, injectors, and injector wiring ...
TSB_R7 ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802W/X) - CLOSED - SUPERSEDED BY PI1802Y/Z.
1 more on this problem
VEHICLE PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802W/X) Specifically, this bulletin provides instructions on which procedures to follow if, after installation of the KSDS, any one of the subject vehicles below returns to the dealer with Diagnostic Trouble Code (?DTC?), P1326..
Check engine light or misfire 2 bulletins · 49 complaints
COMBINATION TSB/SERVICE ACTION: AIR FILTER AND NVLD REPLACEMENT (SA421) This bulletin provides the procedure to perform an evaporative leak test and replace the fuel tank air filter, and, if necessary, the Natural Vacuum Leak Detector (NVLD) on some Optima (JF HEV) vehicles, produced from June 27, 2016 through January 7, 2019, ...
1.6T GDI ULEV MIL ON LOGIC IMPROVEMENT FOR P0128 This bulletin provides the procedure to improve the logic of the ECU (Electronic Control Unit) on some 2016-2017MY Optima (JFa) 1.6T GDI ULEV DCT vehicles, produced from September 28, 2015 through September 03, 2016, which exhibit a MIL (Malfunction Indicator ...
Burns oil or oil level rises 4 bulletins · 43 complaints
EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION NU/GAMMA/THETA/KAPPA ENGINES This bulletin provides information on diagnosing and/or repairing some 2011-2024MY vehicles (refer to the table on pages 9 and 10 for applicable models and engine), which may exhibit a symptom of excessive oil consumption.
EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION NU/GAMMA/THETA/KAPPA ENGINES This bulletin provides information on diagnosing and/or repairing some 2011-2021MY vehicles (refer to the tables on pages 8-9 for applicable models and engine), which may exhibit a symptom of excessive oil consumption.
2 more on this problem
EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION NU/GAMMA/THETA/KAPPA ENGINES This bulletin provides information on diagnosing and/or repairing some 2011-2019MY vehicles (refer to table below for applicable model and engine), which may exhibit a symptom of excessive oil consumption.
EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION NU/GAMMA/THETA ENGINES This bulletin provides information on diagnosing and/or repairing some 2011-2019MY vehicles (refer to table below for applicable model and engine), which may exhibit a symptom of excessive oil consumption.
Engine knocking or ticking 13 bulletins · 40 complaints
PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802Y/Z) This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previously published PI1802 titled "Knock Sensor Detection System - ECU Logic Improvement"; equipped w/THETA II engine.
ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802Y/Z) This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previously published PI1802 titled "Knock Sensor Detection System - ECU Logic Improvement" equipped w/THETA II engine.
11 more on this problem
PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT TSB_PI1802_R2 - Knock Sensor Detection System - ECU Logic Improvement - This bulletin provides information related to a software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to install the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) in order to protect the engine from ...
PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802Y/Z_Rev3) - - This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previously published in July 2018 (PI1802 Rev 10, 03/16/2020) titled "Knock Sensor Detection System - ECU Logic ...
PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802Y/Z_Rev2) - This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previously published in July 2018 (PI1802 Rev 10, 03/16/2020) titled "Knock Sensor Detection System - ECU Logic ...
PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN : KNOCK SENSOR DETECTION SYSTEM (KSDS) LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (PI1802_R11) This bulletin provides information related to a software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to install the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) in order to protect the engine from excessive connecting rod bearing damage.
TSB - ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802Y/Z) This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previously published in July 2018 (PI1802 Rev 10, 03/16/2020) titled Knock Sensor Detection System - ECU Logic Improvement.
TSB - REV 10 KNOCK SENSOR DETECTION SYSTEM - ECU LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (PI1802) - This bulletin provides information related to a software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to install the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) in order to protect the engine from excessive ...
TSB - PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN KNOCK SENSOR DETECTION SYSTEM - ECU LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (PI1802) Rev.9 - This bulletin provides information related to a software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to install the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) in order to protect the engine from ...
ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802W/X) This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previously published in July 2018 (PI1802, Rev 6, 01/31/2019) titled "Knock Sensor Detection System - ECU Logic Improvement".
TSB - Product Improvement Campaign: KNOCK SENSOR DETECTION SYSTEM - ECU LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (PI1802) - This bulletin provides information related to a software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to install the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) in order ...
PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN KNOCK SENSOR DETECTION SYSTEM - ECU LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (PI1802) - This bulletin provides information related to a software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to install the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) in order to protect the engine from excessive ...
Plus 1 older ones not listed here.
Headlights too dim or fail 2 bulletins · 13 complaints
INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE This bulletin provides information relating to some Kia models that may exhibit fogging, condensation, and/or moisture inside a headlamp assembly.
HALOGEN HEAD LAMP LOW BEAM BULB CONNECTOR REPLACEMENT This bulletin provides information regarding the procedure to repair the bulb connector on some 2010MY~ vehicles listed on the table below, which may exhibit a bulb connector concern. To correct this concern, replace the connector with a new and improved part.
Hybrid or EV system warning, loss of power 3 bulletins · 13 complaints
TSB - SERVICE ACTION: INHIBITOR SWITCH REPLACEMENT (SA317A) This bulletin provides the procedure to replace the inhibitor switch on some 2017MY Optima (JFa), Sorento (UMa), Optima Hybrid (HEV), Optima Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), Sportage (QL), Forte (YD), and Sedona (YP) vehicles, equipped with a front wheel drive 6-speed ...
SERVICE ACTION: HYBRID STARTER GENERATOR (HSG) PULLEY NUT INSPECTION AND/OR HSG REPLACEMENT (SA289) This bulletin provides the procedure to inspect the Hybrid Starter Generator (HSG) pulley nut and, if necessary, replace the HSG assembly on certain Optima JF HEV/PHEV vehicles with a production range from May 31, 2016 to November 22, 2016, which may exhibit ...
1 more on this problem
HIGH VOLTAGE (HV) BATTERY AND BATTERY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (Bms) PART NUMBER CHANGE - This Pitstop provides information regarding a running change to the High Voltage (HV) Battery and Battery Management System (BMS) control unit assemblies on 2017MY Optima ...
Rod bearing failure 3 bulletins · 10 complaints
Dear Kia Optima Owner: Kia Motors America, Inc. is conducting an important Product Improvement Campaign to perform a software update on all 2016-2018 MY Optima vehicles equipped with 2.4L Gasoline Direct Injection (?GDI?) and 2.0L Turbocharged GDI (?T-GDI?) ...
Q & A - This document is the Q & A for the new Product Improvement Campaign to provide information regarding a software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to protect the engine from excessive connecting rod bearing damage.
1 more on this problem
DEALER SERVICE MANAGER NOTICE This notice advised the dealer service manager of the new Product Improvement Campaign to perform a software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to protect the engine from excessive connecting rod bearing damage.
Power steering cuts out or goes heavy 3 bulletins · 5 complaints
MDPS WARNING LAMP DIAGNOSTIC INSPECTION & SINGLE PARTS REPLACEMENT This bulletin provides information regarding the diagnosis of Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS), also known as Electronic Power Steering (EPS), and parts replacement associated with the ¢Warranty Extension Program¢ (WTY023) on 2016-2017MY Optima ...
OWNER NOTIFICATION This document is the notification to owners of the warranty extension program for WTY023. Kia is extending the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage for repairs related to the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) unit, also known as Electronic Power Steering ...
1 more on this problem
PARTIAL REPAIR OF C-MDPS MOTOR, ECU, WORM GEAR AND/OR STEERING COLUMN HOUSING This bulletin provides information regarding the partial repair of the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) Motor, Electronic Control Unit (ECU), Steering Column Housing, or Worm Gear Assembly.
Complaints filed by year
61 complaints came in 2023. Owners file in waves when a problem gets press or an investigation, so a spike measures attention as much as failures.
NHTSA investigations
Loss of motive power. Closed dec 12, 2023.
NHTSA summary
Engine fires. Closed feb 5, 2024, led to recall 23V-877.
NHTSA summary
Electrical overstress. Closed sep 19, 2024, led to recall 20V-024.
NHTSA summary
Recalls that include the 2017 Kia Optima
Whether your car is included depends on its VIN. Check yours at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
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 and remedy
Remedy: Dealers will replace the trunk latch base subassembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC278.
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
Risk and remedy
Remedy: Kia has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC172.
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Optima hybrid vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with a Voltage Protection Device (VPD), designed to protect the high voltage battery module, that may activate inadvertently.
Risk and remedy
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will remove the VPD switch and install two newly designed Battery Management Systems (BMS) that contain Overvoltage Protection Devices (OPDs), free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC162.
All 3 recalls on the 2017 Kia Optima, with the owner complaints on each recalled system
Guide Buying one used? How to research one car’s history before you pay
Questions
What is the most common problem on the 2017 Kia Optima?
Engine failure, with 72 of the 256 complaints. Owners who gave a mileage for it put the median at about 68,000 miles.
At what mileage do 2017 Kia Optima problems start?
Of the 119 complaints that give a mileage, a quarter came by about 16,000 miles and half by about 57,000.
Is the 2017 Kia Optima better or worse than the 2016 and 2018?
Counted per year on the road, the 2017 has fewer complaints than the 2016 and about as many complaints as the 2018: 26 a year against 69 and 26.
How many 2017 Kia Optima complaints involve a crash, fire or injury?
13 of them (5%). The typical vehicle on this site is at 6%.
Is there a recall for engine failure on the 2017 Kia Optima?
No recall on file for the 2017 Kia Optima is on the same system as engine failure. Another recall may still cover your car, so check its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.