2013 Kia Optima Hybrid
Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2011 | 34 |
| 2012 | 108 |
| 2013 | 53 |
| 2014 | 31 |
| 2015 | 12 |
| 2016 | 4 |
| 2017 | 26 |
| 2018 | 3 |
| 2019 | 0 |
| 2020 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
38% of complaints: electrical system — 20 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hybrid management.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
VEHICLE SURGED FORWARD WHILE IN MOTION TO PARK IN A PARKING SPACE. BRAKES FAILED TO STOP VEHICLE FROM A VERY SLOW SPEED OF 5-10 MPH APPROXIMATELY. HAS DONE THIS ON OCCASION AT HIGHWAY SPEED A SUDDEN SURGE SO A BRAKING WOULD RELIEVE PROBLEM.
NHTSA ODI report, 20170727
Also filed under SERVICE BRAKES and UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I googled and a recall # SC200TE showed it was uncompleted. I called Holly Kia in Felton, Delaware, and they informed me my title is "branded" and therefore not covered under recalls. Then i google the recall again and now its gone.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260826
Also filed under ENGINE
TAKATA RECALL: CAR AT 35K MILEAGE AND DISPLAYS 'HYBRID SYSTEM WARNING, SAFELY STOP AND DO NOT DRIVE'. HAVE BEEN IN AND OUT OF DEALERSHIPS WHO STILL CAN'T SEEM TO FIGURE OUT WHAT THE ISSUE IS.
NHTSA ODI report, 20171116
26% of complaints: service brakes — 14 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hydraulic and air.
CRASH INJURY25% of complaints: engine — 13 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled.
NHTSA ODI report, 20231127
Also filed under HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM and SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
13% of complaints: power train — 7 distinct reports on file.
9% of complaints: vehicle speed control — 5 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Non-crash Vehicle Fires
Non-crash Vehicle Fires
Electrical overstress
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2013 Sorento, 2012-2015 Forte and Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, 2014-2015 Soul, and 2012 Sportage vehicles. An engine compartment fire can occur while driving.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine compartment for fuel and/or engine oil leaks, perform an engine test and make any repairs, including engine replacement, as necessary, free of charge.
Campaign 20V750000 — check if this car was fixed
Engine Fires
Loss of Motive Power
Pedestrian alert sounds
Hyundai and Kia ABS Module Fires
Kia America, Inc.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023.
Campaign 23V652000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2013 Kia Optima Hybrid — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (20 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (14 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (13 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 20V750000 (engine) has been completed.
- Verify recall 23V652000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 38% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.