2019 Kia Optima Safety Report
2019 KIA OPTIMA Safety and Reliability Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2019 Kia Optima
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2019 Kia Optima. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | Moderate (1) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | High (190) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 24 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Engine | Compare engine issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2020 | Compare against the 2020 Kia Optima with 127 complaints and 0 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2015 | Check the 2015 Kia Optima before buying across this generation. |
Kia Optima Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Kia Optima years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 Kia Optima | 127 | 0 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2018 Kia Optima | 220 | 2 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2017 Kia Optima | 244 | 3 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2016 Kia Optima | 725 | 5 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2015 Kia Optima | 983 | 4 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
2019 Kia Optima Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2019 Kia Optima, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Engine
46 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Kia onlyUnknown Or Other
19 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Kia onlyAir Bags
10 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Air Bags issues Kia onlyForward Collision Avoidance
10 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Forward Collision Avoidance issues Kia onlyStructure
9 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Structure issues Kia onlyService Brakes,Forward Collision Avoidance
6 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Service Brakes,Forward Collision Avoidance issues Kia onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Kia Optima
Reliability Score
The 2019 Kia Optima receives a reliability score of 85 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2019 Kia Optima
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2019 Kia Optima
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Kia Optima:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Failure A few vehicles experienced engine failures, with the second owner reporting a complete engine failure at 92,000 miles. |
Medium | Occasional | 92k-172k miles |
| Recall Issues Recalled for Forward Collision Aversion, some vehicles had issues with automatic emergency braking. |
Medium | Occasional | 30k-60k miles |
| Excessive Oil Consumption Several vehicles reported burning oil at a rate of 1 quart per 1000 miles, requiring frequent refills. |
Medium | Occasional | 103k-172k miles |
| Fuel Line Leak A fuel line leak developed after routine maintenance, causing oil consumption issues. |
Medium | Occasional | 103k-172k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Kia Optima:
Issues with the forward collision avoidance system, leading to potential accidents.
Engine failures and oil consumption issues.
Paint peeling and bubbling affecting trade-in value.
Issues with the forward collision avoidance system during recalls.
Recall Details for the 2019 Kia Optima
The following 1 recall has been issued for the 2019 Kia Optima by NHTSA:
Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2019 Optima vehicles equipped with Gamma 1.6L Turbo-GDI or Theta II 2.0L Turbo-GDI engines. A software error in the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) system may cause the braking assist function to not engage when a stationary vehicle is detected.
Consequence: Improper intervention of the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will update the FCA software, free of charge. The recall began August 27, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC179.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2019 Kia Optima
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2019 Kia Optima with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 1 complaint involved crashes. 2 involved fires. 1 reported injuries or fatalities.
Our car paint started peeling out of no where and very bad. I just found out that it is a manufacturing issue with the bonding of the paint.
The car had a complete engine failure at 92,000 miles. I was the second owner so this was not covered by any warranties. Well serviced and maintained vehicle.
The vehicle experienced a sudden engine failure one day after undergoing a manufacturer emissions/service campaign at an authorized dealership. Prior to service, the vehicle operated normally with no warning lights, knocking, or drivability issues. After the failure, the dealership denied coverage and declined to inspect the engine oil. The vehicle was towed for an independent inspection, which f...
The paint is bubbling and falling off in spots. This is ruining our trade-in value. The dealer says it always happens to white vehicles.
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, there was sputtering sound coming from the engine compartment, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was running rough. The vehicle was taken to the independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a cylinder misfire and bu...
I purchased this vehicle on [XXX], with approximately 170,150 miles. On [XXX], during a routine oil change at approximately 172,636 miles, it was discovered that the engine had no oil present. Shortly afterward, the oil warning light began flickering intermittently while driving. On November 4, 2025, at approximately 175,495 miles, a certified mechanic again confirmed that there was no oil presen...
Car was affected by emergency theft system locked car down when moving and caused airbags to deploy in which fractured my spine vertebra causing spinal fusion
Paint peeling off hood.
Brought vehicle in for Recall-SC340 Theta II 2.4L GDI ECM S/W Upgrade. After service was performed I took my vehicle back home and noticed that my down shifting was different, jolty and clunky. Prior to the upgrade my vehicle shifted flawlessly. Took my vehicle back in to have them check it out and they told me that they couldn't feel it and that the upgrade wouldn't cause that. Called Kia Corpora...
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Optima. The contact stated that the catalytic converter was previously replaced. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, two weeks later, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle started misfiring. The contact drove to the residence. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed...
I purchased a used 2019 Kia Optima from a dealership in January 2025 with 103,000 miles. 11 months later it's burning oil. Every 2 weeks I have to add a quart of oil. I took it to my mechanic and they found cylinder 4 has been burning oil. They also found a technical service bulletin related to engine oil consumption. They recommended replacing long block assembly. They referred me to a Kia deale...
Unknown needing help with new purchased car. Bought this car October/2025 with 93k on engine. Already been to dealership i Bought it from to have current issues im dealing with checked out and they only listen to it and said it was injector ticking clatter. Since then ive seen white smoke and the car burning excessive oil. I am adding oil to the car every 2-3 days. Still noticeable smoke and sme...
Engine burners oil at about 1qt per 1000 miles. There is no leak, and no repair to stop the oil from burning quickly. I have to refill my engine with oil several times in between oil changes. Paint is peeling in various spots on my hood and bumper. I first noticed a small area along the border of the hood nearest the windshield (mostly visible from the driers seat). Then 3 more spots on the o...
After routine maintenance replacing the valve cover gasket, the low pressure GDI fuel line developed a leak in an area away from where the maintenance had occurred. After a 10 minute drive, the car developed a fire in the engine compartment. Upon investigation by an independent auto mechanic, it was determined that the fuel line had become brittle and developed a crack that had sprayed fuel into t...
My vehicle is consuming oil excessively. I have to put a whole quart of oil in my vehicle every 2 weeks. I am adamant about getting regular maintenance oil changes as well. My car had to be towed to a local auto shop due to the engine stalling and accelerator not working. They had to replace all 4 coil packs and 4 spark plugs due to dark, tarry oil covering the parts. The repairman told me my engi...
The motor burn oil even after the oil change is done. Also, the car shaking and is not damage to be found.
Red oil light came on along with check engine light took to shop got oil change and they test pressure all is good but oil light and engine light still on replaced oil pressure sensor switch and variable valve solenoid lights still on took to kia dealership they said say thing as first shop replaced oil pressure sensor switch again because they said the aftermarket one doesn't work on my car so bo...
I just recently purchased my 2019 Kia optima sx turbo. After purchase, I immediately began experiencing issues with the braking system and the forward collision warning light coming on. The cruise control stopped working as well. I googled and saw that there was a recall on the forward collision warning system but the local Kia dealership to me says there is not one. I almost had a head on collisi...
I recently had the engine replaced less than a year ago due to an engine recall on this model car, today 11/11/2025 the engine caught fire. We’ve kept up with oil changes on time and I had no alerts in the vehicle on the dash claiming the engine was hot.
2019 Kia Optima EX - 59,000 miles - car miss fires and shakes on start. After a few seconds the car calms down and I can drive. Very dangerous since the fuel can stop flowing and the car can stall at any speed. Very dangerous!! Looks like several Kia's from 2019-2023 have been recalled for the same issue - High Pressure Fuel Pump - if my car is having the same issue at 59,000 miles why is this...
Showing 20 of 190 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
NHTSA Defect Investigations for the 2019 Kia Optima
NHTSA defect investigations are higher-signal than ordinary complaints because they indicate the agency opened a formal review of a potential safety defect. Some investigations later connect to recall campaigns; others close without a recall after review.
Component: Air Bags: Air Bag/Restraint Control Module
Opened 2019-04-19 · Closed 2024-09-19
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation to determine if the failure of airbags to deploy during severe crashes, in certain vehicles, was the result of a safety related defect. During the investigation a complex failure was studied that can result in non-deployment of subject vehicle air bags and other restraint system devices in severe crash events. The subject vehicles may be equipped with an airbag control unit (ACU) for the supplemental restraint system (SRS) Elec...
Component: Engine
Opened 2022-09-12 · Closed 2023-12-12
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain Hyundai Motor America, Inc. and Kia America, Inc. vehicles spanning Model Years (MY) 2005-2021. The Petitioners cited examples of complaints indicating that the subject vehicles were experiencing rapid loss of engine oil due to oil drain plug...
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Kia Optima
Has the 2019 KIA OPTIMA been recalled?
Yes, the 2019 KIA OPTIMA has 1 recall on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2019 KIA OPTIMA have?
The 2019 KIA OPTIMA has 190 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 20 involved crashes. 16 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2019 KIA OPTIMA?
The 2019 KIA OPTIMA received an overall NHTSA safety rating of excellent (5/5). Frontal crash: 5/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 5/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2019 KIA OPTIMA?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2019 KIA OPTIMA involve engine (46 complaints), unknown or other (19 complaints), air bags (10 complaints). Other affected components include forward collision avoidance, structure, service brakes,forward collision avoidance.
How many crash reports does the 2019 KIA OPTIMA have?
There are 20 crash reports associated with the 2019 KIA OPTIMA out of 190 total complaints (10.5% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2019 KIA OPTIMA have?
There are 4 fire reports for the 2019 KIA OPTIMA out of 190 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2019 KIA OPTIMA?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2019 KIA OPTIMA.
How many injuries are reported for the 2019 KIA OPTIMA?
16 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2019 KIA OPTIMA. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2019 KIA OPTIMA?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 KIA OPTIMA is acceptable with caveats. It has 190 complaints, 1 recalls, and a excellent (5/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2019 KIA OPTIMA?
The components with the most failures on the 2019 KIA OPTIMA are: 1. ENGINE (46 complaints), 2. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (19 complaints), 3. AIR BAGS (10 complaints), 4. FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (10 complaints), 5. STRUCTURE (9 complaints). ENGINE is the single most-reported problem area with 46 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2019 KIA OPTIMA?
Be cautious of potential engine failures and oil consumption issues. Ensure the vehicle has been serviced properly and check for any recalls. The 2019 KIA OPTIMA has 190 NHTSA complaints and 1 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it excellent (5/5).
How reliable is the 2019 KIA OPTIMA?
The 2019 KIA OPTIMA receives a reliability score of 85/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 190 owner complaints, 1 recalls, and 24 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Engine Failure and Recall Issues.
What are the known issues with the 2019 KIA OPTIMA?
Known issues with the 2019 KIA OPTIMA include: Engine Failure, Recall Issues, Excessive Oil Consumption, Fuel Line Leak. These are based on patterns found across 190 NHTSA complaints. 1 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
What are the common issues with the 2019 KIA OPTIMA?
Common issues include engine failures, oil consumption, and problems with the forward collision avoidance system.
Are there any recalls for the 2019 KIA OPTIMA?
Yes, there is a recall for the forward collision avoidance system, which may affect automatic emergency braking.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2019 KIA OPTIMA?
Check for signs of engine failure, oil consumption, and any issues with the paint quality.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be cautious of potential engine failures and oil consumption issues. Ensure the vehicle has been serviced properly and check for any recalls.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Kia Optima
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Kia Optima. The data includes 190 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 20 reported crashes, 4 fire incidents, 16 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2019 Kia Optima an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 5 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-16