2012 Kia Optima

2012 Kia Optima

The 2012 Kia Optima was released with a variety of engine and transmission options. Engine options included the 2.4L GDI Theta II 4-cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, and the 2.0L GDI Theta II Turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 274 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 6-speed automatic transmission and a 6-speed manual transmission. The Optima was praised for its stylish design, spacious interior, and comfortable ride, but received criticism for its lackluster performance and handling.

Engine 2.4L GDI Theta II 4-cylinder engine

• Premature engine failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may fail prematurely. Symptoms include: rattling noises, metal shavings in the oil, and difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V376000
• Timing chain failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain may fail, causing the engine to lose power or stop running altogether. Symptoms include: rattling noises from the engine, decreased engine performance, and difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $3000
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L GDI Theta II Turbocharged 4-cylinder engine

• No Issues Found

Transmission 6-speed automatic transmission

• Harsh shifting:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may shift harshly, causing the vehicle to jerk or lurch forward.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission fluid or the transmission valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

6-speed manual transmission

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Premature suspension failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The suspension may fail prematurely, causing the vehicle to ride rough and handle poorly. Symptoms include: excessive bouncing, rattling noises from the suspension, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electrical system failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The electrical system may fail, causing the vehicle to experience a variety of problems. Symptoms include: battery draining, lights not working, and the vehicle not starting.
  • Solution: Replace the electrical components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Defective climate control system:
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system may not work properly, causing the vehicle to be too hot or too cold. Symptoms include: AC not blowing cold air, heat not working, and defroster not working.
  • Solution: Replace the climate control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Kia Optima has been known to have several issues, including engine failure, timing chain failure, harsh shifting, premature suspension failure, and electrical system failure. The severity of these issues can vary, but some of them can be costly to repair. It is important to research the potential problems with the 2012 Kia Optima before making a purchase decision.