2016 Kia Optima Hybrid
Only 4 complaints on file — too few 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.
Only 4 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2011 | 34 |
| 2012 | 107 |
| 2013 | 50 |
| 2014 | 31 |
| 2015 | 12 |
| 2016 | 4 |
| 2017 | 25 |
| 2018 | 3 |
| 2019 | 0 |
| 2020 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 4 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 4 total reports mention: power train.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
Dear NHTSA, I am writing to formally report a serious safety incident involving my 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid, which caught fire and was completely destroyed on October 5, 2025.
NHTSA ODI report, 20251021
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 KIA OPTIMA HYBRID. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND LOST POWER.
NHTSA ODI report, 20171205
2 of 4 total reports mention: engine.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
Dear NHTSA, I am writing to formally report a serious safety incident involving my 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid, which caught fire and was completely destroyed on October 5, 2025.
NHTSA ODI report, 20251021
FOR THE 2ND YEAR, MY KIA WOULD NOT START IN 32 DEGREE WEATHER IN BIG BEAR, CA. THIS IS AN ANNUAL TRIP & TOOK MY KIA.THE LIGHTS, RADIO ALL TURN ON BUT THE ENGINE WILL NOT START.
NHTSA ODI report, 20190304
1 of 4 total reports mentions: exterior lighting.
Show complaint excerpts
THE RIGHT PASSENGER HEADLIGHT WON'T WORK I CHANGED THE LIGHT BULB AND IT'S COMPLETELY OFF. AT FIRST WHEN I ATTEMPTED TO CHANGE THE BULB THE LIGHT FLICKERED AND I THOUGHT THAT IT MIGHT'VE NOT BEEN PUT ON ALL THE WAY OR IT MIGHT'VE BECAME LOOSE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20190523
1 of 4 total reports mentions: electrical system.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
Dear NHTSA, I am writing to formally report a serious safety incident involving my 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid, which caught fire and was completely destroyed on October 5, 2025.
NHTSA ODI report, 20251021
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
Electrical overstress
Loss of Motive Power
Pedestrian alert sounds
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2016 Kia Optima Hybrid — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for exterior lighting issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 2016 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 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.