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 40% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid have?

2 recalls on file for this model year.

2013 Kia Optima Hybrid

○ Not enough data

2013 Kia Optima Hybrid
RENDERED 2026-11-01T13:44:45.790Z

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.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 55
Recalls: 2
Investigations: 7
Top problem: Electrical system

Complaints per year

2013: 55 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
2011	34
2012	108
2013	55
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.

Electrical system

40% · 22 reports

Most commonly citing hybrid management.

CRASHINJURY

Show 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, 2017-07-27

Also filed under Service brakes

hybrid battery low won't crank but turns on and says park do not drive check charging system

NHTSA ODI report, 2026-10-22

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, 2026-08-26

Also filed under Engine

Service brakes

27% · 15 reports

Most commonly citing hydraulic and air.

CRASHINJURY

Engine

25% · 14 reports

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, 2023-11-27

Also filed under Hybrid propulsion system and service brakes, air

Power train

13% · 7 reports

Vehicle speed control

9% · 5 reports

Safety timeline

2 recalls · 7 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

I
2018-08-21Defect petitionClosed 2019-05-10 Non-crash Vehicle Fires
I
2019-03-29Preliminary evaluationClosed 2021-12-22 Non-crash Vehicle Fires
I
2019-04-19Engineering analysisClosed 2024-09-19 Electrical overstress
R

2021-01-25Engine20V750000 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.

Check if this car was fixed →
I
2021-12-22Engineering analysisClosed 2024-02-05 Engine Fires
I
2022-09-12Defect petitionClosed 2023-12-12 Loss of Motive Power
I
2023-01-27Defect petitionClosed 2023-08-07 Pedestrian alert sounds
I
2023-11-17Audit queryOpen Hyundai and Kia ABS Module Fires
R

2024-03-29Service brakes, hydraulic23V652000 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.

Check if this car was fixed →

Buy-smart checklist

2013 Kia Optima Hybrid — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Electrical system: 22 reports on file for this year.
Service brakes: 15 reports on file for this year.
Engine: 14 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 20V750000 · Engine
Recall 23V652000 · Service brakes, hydraulic

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 40% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid have?: 2 recalls on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.